my scandinavian home

While many Swedes head to the coast or countryside in summertime, there’s another delightful retreat that truly comes into its own come spring – the allotment cottage!

These charming little cottages are tucked away in garden communities – often right in the heart of the city. They offer a unique blend of urban living and nature, where you can grow and harvest your own flowers, fruit and veg just a short cycle from home.

You can stay there from spring to autumn, after which the water is turned off for the season. Despite their simplicity, they’re incredibly cosy – typically featuring a small kitchen, dining area, sitting room, and a place to sleep. They're perfect for spending a few days at a time tending your garden and enjoying a slower pace of life.

This pretty example on 'The Pea Trail' in Slottskogskolonin in the cetnre of Gothenburg offers a glimpse into the quintessential Swedish allotment cottage – and guess what? It’s for sale! Oh, the possibilities… Enjoy the tour!

Although it’s pared back, I can really see the charm and potential in this lovely cottage. It offers the best of both worlds – a countryside feel right in the city's heart!

Can you imagine owning an allotment cottage? And are you into growing your own fruit and veg? This year I’m growing cucumbers and tomatoes from seed – they’re looking good so far, so here’s hoping we’ll be enjoying fresh summer salads before long!

Let’s peek at a few more beautiful allotment cottages today – who knows, you might find your dream plot:

This swedish allotment is a true summer oasis - see the tour once the new owners moved in here.
Charming details in a Danish allotment
A Swedish allotment in summertime
A charming allotment cottage in Malmö

Happy Wednesday!

Niki

Photography and interior styling: Krister Engström & Martina Mattson for Kvarteret.

Thank you for being so patient (and supportive!) during my long run of Scandinavian summer cottages and getaways lately. Guess what? I actually have a city apartment to share with you today—and it's fresh, warm, contemporary, and lovely all around. It even has a cosy window nook perfect for enjoying a coffee while watching the world go by!

Look around and you’ll discover a home that feels quietly curated – full of warmth, texture and soul. Light filters across original plank floors, worn smooth with time, while thoughtful updates blend seamlessly with early 20th-century charm.

Located in Södermalm – Stockholm’s boho neighbourhood – the apartment is a peaceful hideaway with a lovely personal touch. I particularly love the dining area and also the bedroom, which glows in a soft antique yellow by Jotun. In fact, every detail – from the linseed-painted green doors to the cosy window nook – feels practical and full of feeling. Välkommen in!