As you know, I'm a big fan of little kolonistuga - allotment cottages. They don't exist in the UK, I know because I spent copious amounts of time at my parents allotment in London as a child and could have used a space to hang out and play games rather than weeding (the rickety shed full of spiders didn't quite cut it!).
Here in Malmö there are quite a few allotment communities dotted around the city. In the summer they spring to life with people toiling the soil, relaxing with friends over a fika, or simply taking it easy and enjoying the summer sun.
As with all Swedish summer cottages, simplicity is the order of the day, and this charming kolonistuga in Gothenburg (which is currently for sale!) strikes the perfect balance. It's pared back, yet cosy, simple, yet warm. There's a lot at play to make this happen, let's take a closer look!
The emphasis is on relaxation and warmth - and that starts with the glowing string lights and a an inviting ochre front door.
Inside, the walls and ceilings have been clad in wood panelling - giving the entire space depth and interest. I love my panelling up at the cabin (from Norrlands Trä) - the only problem is, it's so beautiful that I can't bear the thought of nailing up any pictures!
The kitchen cabinets are simple with a nostalgic traditional touch - both in terms of the design and the handles.
Vintage touches help to create a relaxed feel.
How cool is this makeshift wine cellar under the floor? So smart! It's an ideal space for extra storage too.
The ceiling has been knocked through to reveal the A-frame bones, helping the 26 m2 / 279 f2 open-plan living space to feel way more spacious.
Mix and match furniture is key to creating a relaxed, lived-in feel.
A daybed doubles up as a sofa and somewhere to kip! There's also a loft providing just enough space for a cosy double bed. Speaking from experience with our own loft bed up at the cabin, it can really quickly get hot higher up so it's important to have good air flow, a fan or even AC depending on the climate you live in.
The entrance doubles up as a cosy sun room and living room area. I love how the green floral wallpaper brings nature indoors, so you can get the sense you're outside even on a rainy day!
In small spaces each piece needs to work harder. I haven't seen a coffee table / basket like this before - have you? So clever!
Swedes are so clever at creating different zones in the garden. I can see three different places to relax including the deck, a hammock and a dappled dining area under the boughs of a tree. Roll on summer days!
What a perfect urban oasis in which to escape! Even better, you can just hop on your bike when it's time to leave: no planes, trains or buses to catch!
Tempted to snap this place up as your very own summer oasis? You can find all the details here.
I'll be back on Monday with a Danish home that features so many of the Danish design trends I spotted at Formland design fair yesterday. Can't wait to tell you more! In the meantime, here are a few other kolonistugas to enjoy over the weekend:
Trevlig helg!
Niki
Photography: Krister Engström
Styling: Martina Mattson
For sale via Kvarteret Mäkleri
Found via Nordroom with thanks
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