A Dreamy Thatched Cottage and Creative Haven in the Swedish Countryside

We've sailed to Varberg on Sweden's west coast on a number of occasions, as it's the perfect stopover on the way to the incredible Gothenburg archipelago. But it's also a lovely destination in its own right! Home to some of my favourite creatives, including Kristin Lagerkvist (whose Varberg home and French getaway I've featured here before), and not far from the beautiful Strömma Farmlodge, the area has a wonderfully creative spirit. There must be something in the air!

Sculptor and interior designer Patricia Trambevski is one of those creatives. She's transformed a beautiful thatched-roof house overlooking the rolling Halland countryside into an extraordinary home and studio. And now she's ready to move on and let someone else enjoy this little slice of paradise (tempting, I have to say – anyone fancy going halves?).

The house is a wonderful mix of old, new and rustic, with beautiful natural materials, earthy colours and plenty of texture. Think muted green cabinetry, pale wood floors, weathered antiques and handmade details at every turn. I especially love how Patricia's artistic eye shines through, from the sculptural stone basin in the bathroom to the oversized pottery and little floral arrangements that bring the rooms to life. And can we talk about that kitchen? The green cabinetry and dark range cooker are such a lovely combination, don't you think?

And then there's the incredible light-filled dining space, the greenhouse with its wicker chairs and cosy sheepskins, and the garden bursting with dahlias.  

And luckily for us, photographer Angelica Hvass was there to capture it all so beautifully. Come and take a look around, I have a feeling you're going to like this one! 

Aaah, so lovely! What a dream place Patricia has created. There are so many wonderful spots to gather with friends and family, or simply sneak off for a little peace and quiet.

Was there anything in particular that stood out to you about this beautiful Varberg home? I'd love to hear your observations!

If you're feeling tempted to pack your bags and move in (I wouldn't blame you!), the house is actually for sale – you can take a peek at the listing here. And be sure to check out more of Patricia's beautiful creative work on Instagram.

And while we're on the subject of creativity, I'd also love to give a little shout-out to small, independent businesses. Do any of you run your own? Or perhaps you have a family member or close friend who does? If so, please share it in the comments below and tell us a little about what you do. Let's help spread the word and support one another. I can't wait to hear what you're all up to!

Niki

Styling: FRÄSCHT Photography: Angelica Hvass for Kust Mäklarna

READ MORE...

10

Your New Year cabin hide-away?

As the Christmas holidays draw near I'm dreaming about getting away from it all for a few days at a little remote hide-away. Nothing fancy, just my family and I and a little wood burning stove - doesn't that sound wonderful?! This tiny Swedish cottage in Marie Emilsson's garden at Håkesgård, just outside Varberg on Sweden's west coast fits the bill perfectly. The traditional falun red cottage, which includes a kitchenette, bedroom and basic facilities has been newly renovated in classic green tones to match the surroundings. Oh and it has a hot tub too. Guh! How I'd love to spend my holidays here, how about you?!

Credits: Photography - Kristin Lagerqvist (blog here) - shared with kind permission. 

So pretty! And the surroundings? Beautiful!

Could you imagine spending a few days here?

Get the look from Marie's little cottage: Morris Willow Bough wallpaper, Farrow & Ball sells a selection of green paint like this, straw fedora (source vintage ones here), buy beautiful grey linen fabric by the yard here, L:A bruket soap, these traditional linen cushions /pillows are pretty.

You can see more pics of Marie's lovely cabin here. 

The second to last image of the wood burning stove is taken from the main house - and features a beautiful garland made with fir and other foliage gathered from the garden - more pictures and a great tutorial of how to make this garland here.

Although not currently for hire, word on the (blog) street is that Marie might start to make it available - watch this space! In the meantime, if you're in Varberg, Trip2garden is definitely worth a visit with it's garden, café, shop and gallery.

More beautiful homes captured by Kristin Lagerqvist include a vintage inspired Swedish home full of soul, the lovely home of Johanna Bradford and an idyllic allotment house. I have to say, this Scandi-boho style is one of my favourites.

And if I've got you dreaming about getting away from it all, you might also want to check out three of my favourite archives: swedish cottages, rural reteats and log cabins (just scroll passed if Marie's cottage comes up first). And relax!

Have a lovely day!

PS Thank you to everyone who entered the give-away to win two vases from Nordal - the winner has now been announced here.....drum roll....

READ MORE...

4

A Charming Swedish Family Home in the South of France

Tjena! It's long been known that Swedes love their summer cottages - usually somewhere rural and near water for morning dips. But when you can enjoy a summer cottage lifestyle year-round like Kristin Lagerqvist does at her home in Varberg, West Sweden - a holiday home needs to offer something different. And Kristin and her family, found their paradise in Languedoc-Roussillon, Southeast France. True to Kristin's signature style, the home is decorated with local vintage and flea market finds and earthy tones which look beautiful beside the original French floor tiles and architecture of the old town house. On warmer days, life moves up to a rooftop terrace with a dining area and daybed. Bienvenue!

How lovely!! 

And what a wonderful change of scene! They must feel like they've really landed when they arrive. And I bet there's no end to the enjoyment Kristin gets from those French antique markets and curiosity stores. magnifique! 

Her house is charming too, pared back, relaxed, full of charm!

Is there anything that stands out to you? 

See more pictures of Kristin's home in Varberg and house in France here. She also has a wonderful boutique and offers inspiring workshops here. 

Would you like to take a peek inside a few other homes in France belonging to Swedes? 

A Swedish photographer and French hatmakers home in France

A Swedish bed & breakfast in France

A Swedish family home in the French alps

Have a great start to the week! 

Niki

Photography Kristin Lagerqvist - shared with kind permission 

READ MORE...

8