A new day, a new dawn AND a new studio in town! I'm so excited as I've been cycling passed this little place for years and always dreamed. about working here (a little like the owners of this cabin in Great Mackerel Beach - which they'd be eyeing up for over 20 years!). Further North, Swedish vintage furniture dealer and interior designer Fredrik Karlsson is also enjoying a turn of the century building. His apartment in Stockholm features achingly high ceilings, beautiful period woodwork and a pristine parquet floor dating back to the time it was built in 1902. Light pours in through French doors, casting a natural spotlight on iconic design pieces, new Nordic items and original artwork. I chatted with Fredrik to find out more about his style, love for design classics and best Stockholm tips!
How would you describe your style?
Scandinavian minimalism meets French industrialism. I like the more minimalistic lines and high quality materials of Scandinavian design but always try to mix it up with some favourite French mid-century design pieces by designers such as Pierre Jeannette, Jean Prouvé and Charlotte Perriand.
Above: Floor lamp by Julius Theodor, coffee table by Axel Einar Hjorth, painting by Emma Bernhard
Do you often blend different looks and styles in your work?
In my job as an interior designer I find it very motivating to blend different styles and work with contrast. In my opinion, contrasts are what make a result more personal and interesting to look at - I follow this in every area of my life including the way I dress, my personality and how I decorate my home!
What inspired your home decorating style?
My inspiration from the beginning was to keep the traditional Swedish style - high ceilings, handmade details, stucco ceiling, parquet flooring etc but add other factors such as French design and marble. My home feels like a little Parisian oasis in the heart of Stockholm - which was my goal!
Chandiogarh project table and chair by Pierre Jeanneret
Where do you find items for your home?
I find most of my furniture in Swedish / Scandinavian auctions as well as international galleries and antique shops. I love looking for a combination of unusual objects and better known iconic pieces in order to achieve a nice balance.
Table by Axel Einar Hjorth, Art by Wolfgang Voegele
I like how your instagram is also dotted with self portraits / fashion. Can you tell us a little more about your personal style? Do you have a favourite Swedish clothing brand?
Our Legacy has been my favourite for many years now and if I buy new, I mostly buy from them. However, I mostly purchase vintage clothes these days (mainly to create a more personal and interesting style). If trends get too popular, I usually go the other way and I think that's where I differ from many Swedes. I enjoy taking a different path.
And finally, do you have any insider restaurant tips for anyone visiting Stockholm?
My favourite places to dine and wine are Riche (a true classic!), Ciccio's and Coquetel Social (a fairly new bar that serves great drinks with phenomenal service!).
Thank you so much for inviting us into your home Fredrik! What a treasure trove! Loved the Stockholm restaurant and bar tips too. I'm looking forward to trying them out next time I'm in town!
In case you're feeling inspired to achieve a similar look to Fredrik's apartment, here's the low down:
GET THE LOOK
1. Gubi Multi-Lite Pendant Lamp*2. Fredericia J39 chair
3. Ellos Consua Carpet
4. Galerie Patrick Seguin A Passion For Jean Prove
5. Paustian Arctander Chair
6. Zara Home Teak and Rattan Chair
7. Hay Longue sofa 321
Did you spot the cosy, fluffy chair?! Ever since creating this round-up last week, I've been wanting something like this in my own home. I've got a feeling I'd never get near it though, the kids would totally OWN IT!
Is there anything that stood out to you about Fredrik's home?
You can see more pictures and enquire about Fredrik's vintage furniture and interior design services over at @Fredrikkarlssoninteriors.
The week is young, I think we need a little more inspiration today, don't you? Here are a few other fabulous Stockholm homes I think you'll love!
The beautiful Stockholm home of Amelia Widdell
A Stockholm home in pretty colours
The cosy urban home of a macrame artist
Vi ses imorgon!
Niki
Photography courtesy of Fredrik Karlsson, shared with kind permission. Portrait image by Milad Abedi.