A Cosy Norwegian Home at Christmastime

This is the time of year when I always start to panic — is Christmas really only 14 days away? I have so much to do… how about you? Even so, let’s pause for a moment and enjoy some festive calm inside the charming home of interior designer Guro Jovall, just south of Oslo, Norway. Guro lives with her son, dog and boyfriend in a beautiful house built in 1838 — and at Christmas it becomes truly magical.

Guro’s style blends Scandinavian simplicity with warm, historic character. The tones throughout her home are soft and natural — creamy whites, warm woods and gentle greys — creating a calm backdrop for Christmas greenery and candlelight. I love how the textures do so much of the talking here: the rough, hand-brushed brick by the fireplace, the smooth painted floors, the cosy sheepskins and woollen throws, and the layers of linen on the table. It all feels so inviting.

Look closely at the dining table, and you'll see it's been set with understated linens, sparkling glassware and blue-and-white plates (so pretty!) — a perfect mix of pattern and calm neutrals. It’s the kind of space where I can imagine gathering with friends and family, lingering as the light fades with a roaring fire in the background. Simple wreaths, pine cones and fresh greenery add just enough festive detail, and the soft glow of candles brings everything to life. 

I love how Guro's home is the perfect reminder that Christmas decorating can be both subtle and incredibly cosy!

 Isn't Guro's home truly magical? Is there anything that stood out to you? 

You can see more inspiration and find out more about Guro's interior design services over at @designguro.

If you haven't already explored the Christmas archives, please do pour yourself a coffee, grab a blanket and have a scroll - there are so many beautiful Scandinavian homes and decorations to discover!

I'm heading off to Copenhagen shortly for a 'Julefrukost' (Danish Christmas lunch) with the team at Skandinavisk (don't forget the exlusive 20% off with code 'jul20', it's a perfect place to pick up a wonderful-smelling gift!). See more from my home here. 

Wishing you all a relaxing mid-week!

Niki

Photography by @designguro, shared with kind permission.

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A Warm Swedish Christmas: Inside Sanna’s Country Home

Hej there! How are you holding up? It's a busy time of year! 

On Friday I shared a few snapshots from my own home this Christmas (along with a little gift!), and today we're spreading our wings a little further afield – to Sanna's beautiful Swedish country home in snowy Dalarna.

Sanna lives here with her husband and two children, and to give you a full tour I went back through her Instagram (with kind permission, of course) so I could gather snapshots from each room – which is why some feel more Christmassy than others. Either way, there's plenty of inspiration to be gleaned!

Built in the early 1900s, Sanna and her husband have been carefully restoring the house with great respect for its original charm. They place a strong focus on re-use and on giving old objects a new life. The home is filled with the kind of quiet, soulful details that make Scandinavian country interiors so inviting. Painted wood panelling in dusty blues and greys gives the kitchen a soft, heritage feel, while worn timber floors and simple rustic stools add a grounded warmth. Natural textures—ceramics, linen curtains, wooden cabinets—soften each room, and fresh flowers appear everywhere, bringing life to the winter light.

In the living areas, I especially love the paper lanterns and pleated lamps, which cast a gentle glow over vintage furniture, creating a layered look that feels both relaxed and personal. Just the house I'd like to come home to, whatever the season. Enjoy the tour! 

So beautiful! 

I actually love that there are pictures from each season here, as it gives you an idea of how it looks and feels over the year. Do you agree? 

It really is such a pretty home, and the views over the fields are magical. 

One thing that stood out to me was the upholstery on the armchairs. I tried (and failed) to find a source. Does anyone know where the fabric comes from? I'll also check with Sanna and update the post once I know. 

Did anything stand out to you in particular?

Just in case you'd like to see a little more Christmas inspiration today, here are a few beautiful home tours and edits I've shared in the past: 

11 festive ideas from Mari's lovely Christmassy home

Scandinavian Christmas crafting ideas (many of which are edible!)

Inspiration from a beautiful Swedish home at Christmas

Har det så fint! 

Niki

Photography courtesy of @sannaprepuk, shared with kind permission. 

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