Summer House in Denmark by Peter Kjaer Arkitekter

The latest lookbook curated by Dezeen showcases a collection of eight Scandinavian summer houses distinguished by their extraordinary interiors. These vacation homes, located across Denmark, Sweden, and Norway, move beyond traditional cabin designs to present imaginative architectural and interior solutions. The lookbook is part of a series that offers visual inspiration from Dezeen's extensive archive, focusing on themes such as minimalist bedrooms, colorful resin floors, and statement staircases. The featured homes exemplify diverse approaches to modern Scandinavian summer living. Heatherhill Beach House in Denmark, designed by Norm Architects, incorporates a contemporary feel with a brick floor laid in a grid pattern, contrasting with traditional elements. Douglas fir wall paneling, a dolomite plaster fireplace, and a marble kitchen island define its interior. Saltviga House in Norway by Kolman Boye Architects creatively utilizes timber flooring offcuts, cladding its exterior in oak and furnishing its interior with waste Douglas fir, providing cabinet fronts and smooth screed floors, along with steeply sloping ceilings and expansive window walls. Förstberg Ling's House with a Hidden Atrium in Denmark features a secluded central courtyard accessible only through the toilet, with varying ceiling heights and a double-height main bedroom creating dramatic spatial experiences. Hee House in Sweden, by Studio Ellsinger, is characterized by its distinctive hat-shaped aluminum roof and high ceilings. The design cleverly integrates an expansive bookshelf wall to create split-level bedrooms and double-height living spaces, maximizing space with features like a built-in stove, compact kitchen, and corner bench. Mentze Ottenstein’s renovation of the Dinesen Country Home in Denmark, a 19th-century longhouse, introduces soft color tones and contemporary twists on period furniture. This guesthouse features a dark brown library with ash bookshelves, a forest-green kitchen, and pale yellow reception rooms. Vipp Cold Hawaii in Denmark, designed by Hahn Lavsen for the homeware brand Vipp, is organized around two large chimneys that divide the interior into three sections. The eastern section houses the living space and an anodized aluminum kitchen, with furniture in neutral shades mirroring the surrounding dune landscape. Cabin Nordmarka in Norway, by Rever & Drage, features a large, unusually shaped window that dictates its compact, open-plan layout. The dining area offers expansive forest views, while sleep spaces are strategically placed away from the window, and a bed platform provides under-floor storage. Finally, Villa Vassdal in Sweden, designed by Studio Holmberg, uses birch plywood for walls and built-in furniture to create a monolithic yet warm interior on a small Gothenburg archipelago island. Built-in bookshelves and soft furnishings add subtle color accents. This collection of summer houses highlights innovative design and thoughtful integration with nature, redefining the traditional Scandinavian summer retreat. #ScandinavianDesign #SummerHouses #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalInnovation #NordicArchitecture #ContemporaryLiving #HolidayHomes #CabinDesign #VacationRetreats

The I/O Cabin, a holiday home designed by local studio Erling Berg, is situated on Norway's southern coast in Risør, offering ocean views. This wooden structure, clad in locally sourced spruce, is elevated from the ground by wooden pillars, adapting to the sloped terrain of the site. The design features three distinct volumes, interconnected by a wooden deck, forming a central atrium. This configuration aims to create dynamic "inside-outside" spaces, catering to Norway's rapidly changing climate, which often transitions between sunny and rainy periods within a single day. The studio's objective was to ensure easy access between indoor and outdoor areas, fostering seamless circular and visual connections. The site, characterized by its solid rock formation, provides extensive views towards the southwest coast, including the Skagerrak strait and Denmark. The cabin's volumes are supported by a wooden deck, which is raised above the ground by cross-laminated timber beams. These beams also extend to support the home's cantilevered roof, strategically shaped and placed to offer sun shading while allowing ample light into the central atrium and providing protection from rain. Erling Berg's architectural vision draws inspiration from both the horizontal lines of mid-century Californian architecture and traditional Norwegian building methods. Erling Berg, having spent significant time in California, emphasizes the fusion of functional aspects found in mid-century Californian homes with the practicalities of Norwegian vernacular architecture and its conventional construction techniques. The concept of the deck and roof framework, connected by vertical pillars extending to the untouched ground, was inspired by the larger steel frames prevalent in mid-century homes in the Los Angeles hills. Upon entering the I/O Cabin, the transitional indoor-outdoor atrium leads into the main living space, four bedrooms, and a shower area, all arranged in a U-shape around this central hub. Inside, the walls are finished with white-painted horizontal wood siding, while the ceilings and floors feature white oiled spruce timber. This material palette creates a warm yet bright aesthetic, characteristic of traditional Norwegian coastal cabins. The choice of materials is rooted in local, genuine resources and a color scheme commonly found in Norwegian summer houses from the 1950s and 60s. This functional palette combines the warmth of wood textures with white painted panels, contributing to an interior that feels cool, yet inviting and luminous. A prominent design element within the living room is a V-shaped timber column, which allows for a corner glass window. This feature maximizes views of the natural surroundings, further enhancing the cabin's "inside-outside" quality. Erling Berg, the founder of the Norwegian studio, previously worked with Mork-Ulnes Architects on projects such as a concrete guesthouse in California's wine country. Other notable architectural projects in Norway include Snøhetta's mass-timber home perched on a hillside in Kongsberg and Feste Landscape/Architecture's series of wooden cabins for hikers in the Agder region mountains. The photography for the I/O Cabin was carried out by Carlos Rollán. #HolidayHome #WoodenArchitecture #SpruceWood #NorwegianDesign #CoastalLiving #InsideOutsideLiving #CrossLaminatedTimber #MidCenturyModernInfluence #ErlingBerg

This article highlights an atrium cabin designed by architect Erling Berg, situated on an untouched, sloped terrain along the southern coast of Norway. The cabin offers views of the ocean, with Denmark visible in the distance. Spanning 1,200 square feet, the structure is elevated on pillars, allowing it to float above the natural landscape of solid rock and local vegetation. The design comprises three distinct volumes interconnected by a wooden deck, which also floats above the sloped ground. This configuration creates an 'inside/outside' effect, maximizing the use of outdoor spaces for its function as a summer retreat. The cabin's design incorporates a shared, cantilevered roof that serves multiple purposes: it blocks direct sunlight, permits natural light to enter, and provides shelter for the shared outdoor areas from rain. The exterior is clad in locally sourced spruce siding, treated with an organic wood protection and gray pigments, which gives it a naturally weathered appearance from the outset. Inside, the walls feature white horizontal wood siding, complemented by a warmer-toned floor and ceiling made of white-oiled spruce, a color scheme that reflects traditional Norwegian coastal cabins. The structural system of the cabin is notable for its wooden pillars, which lift the building off the ground. These pillars are integrated with cross-laminated timber beams in the deck. This beam structure extends upwards to the roof, mirroring the structural beams in the deck. This design choice draws inspiration from mid-century steel-structured homes found in California, where the architect received his education. A V-shaped wood column supports the weight of the cantilevered roof. A large glass corner in the main living space further enhances the connection with the surrounding natural environment, reinforcing the indoor-outdoor living experience characteristic of the elevated cabin. #NorwegianArchitecture #CabinDesign #CoastalLiving #IndoorOutdoorLiving #SustainableMaterials #ModernCabin #ArchitecturalInnovation #SummerHouse

Maka Arkitektur designed Summerhouse Bjäre, a contemporary holiday home located in a coastal village on Sweden's Bjäre peninsula. The design objective was to create a simplified interpretation of traditional local houses, characterized by their pitched roofs and unadorned materials, while integrating modern elements and adapting the structure to its specific site. The architects sought to achieve a timeless aesthetic that echoes traditional building techniques, such as brick and stone courtyard houses, yet remains distinctly contemporary in its execution. The 500-square-meter property was conceived to accommodate three generations of a single family, necessitating an efficient use of space that simultaneously preserves ample outdoor areas. The house features a straightforward orthogonal layout, comprising a primary living volume and two wings positioned at either end. One of these wings functions as a detached guest annex, offering enhanced privacy. This configuration of interconnected volumes is strategically arranged around a central courtyard garden, providing shelter from the strong coastal winds prevalent in the exposed fishing village. The courtyard also benefits from the shade of a mature cherry tree, enhancing comfort during summer months. The ground floor of the main building houses the social areas, including the living room, kitchen, and dining area, all of which are situated along the perimeter of the courtyard. Expansive glazed surfaces, fitted with sliding doors, allow these interior spaces, along with the guest house, to seamlessly open onto the garden, fostering an indoor-outdoor living experience. A staircase near the entrance leads to the upper floor, which contains two bedrooms and a lounge area. This lounge space overlooks a void that vertically connects the two levels of the house. Additionally, a door on the upper floor provides access to a roof terrace, offering panoramic views of the village rooftops and the surrounding ocean. In contrast to the open and permeable facades facing the courtyard, the gabled front facade, which is visible from the street, incorporates minimal openings. This side of the house is further defined by flanking walls and fences that shield the garden from public view, ensuring privacy. The exterior walls are finished with a lime stucco, creating a homogenous, textured surface. This is complemented by a meticulously detailed pre-patinated zinc roof, with copper and brass accents introducing warmth to the overall material palette. The interior design emphasizes natural materials, evident in the oak flooring and solid timber joinery used throughout the home. The furniture selection combines classic Scandinavian pieces from designers such as Bruno Mathsson, Borge Mogensen, and Märta Maas-Fjetterström with contemporary items by brands like Massproductions, Örsjö, Pandul, and Norrgavel. This curated blend contributes to a design that feels both timeless and modern. The project was undertaken by Maka Arkitektur, with Ylva der Hagopian and Daniel Hedner as key members of the project team. The photography documenting the summerhouse was captured by Åke E:son Lindman. The design successfully marries traditional Swedish architectural elements with contemporary needs, creating a functional and aesthetically pleasing holiday home for multi-generational use. #HolidayHome #SwedishArchitecture #CourtyardHouse #GabledRoof #CoastalLiving #MultiGenerationalHome #ModernDesign #NaturalMaterials

Danish design company Vipp has unveiled its fourth hotel destination, a 1775 farmhouse located on the island of Lolland, Denmark. This new addition expands Vipp's portfolio of distinctive accommodations, which previously included a loft and a chimney house in Copenhagen, as well as the 'Shelter' cabin on Lake Immeln, Sweden. These untraditional hotel properties serve as immersive settings for guests to experience exclusive locations while showcasing the versatility of Vipp's minimalist products and furniture. The company highlights that these stays also allow guests to 'test drive' Vipp kitchens and other designs before making a purchase. The newly opened Vipp Farmhouse is situated within the Søllestedgaard estate, nestled within a sprawling 1400-acre forest. Originally a gardener's residence, the farmhouse seamlessly blends traditional vernacular countryside architecture with Vipp's modern aesthetic. Jette Egelund, the second-generation owner of Vipp, noted that the project was inspired by a rediscovered appreciation for nature and the Danish countryside during lockdown, offering guests a tranquil escape and a taste of farm life. The Farmhouse project was a collaborative effort with Ulrik Th. Jørgensen, the estate owner, and featured interior designer Julie Cloos Mølsgaard, who was tasked with infusing a contemporary feel into the historic location through furniture, artworks, and objects. The interiors of the farmhouse harmoniously combine traditional architectural elements with the functional, contemporary pieces that are characteristic of Vipp. Key features like the whitewashed façades and thatched roof of the original structure were meticulously preserved. Inside, Vipp's Scandinavian minimalism is evident, complemented by a serene palette of natural hues. The spaces are adorned with some of Vipp’s most iconic designs, ranging from the original pedal bin to its sophisticated kitchen systems. The V1 kitchen, for instance, is a focal point, alongside the 'Cabin' round table with a dark oak base and marble top, and leather-seated 'Cabin' chairs. A study corner features the 'Swivel' chair and Vipp Table lamp, while the living room showcases Vipp's latest furniture collection, including the 'Chimney' sofa, coffee table, and floor reading lamp. The surrounding environment of the Vipp Farmhouse promises a nature-rich stay. Guests can explore Denmark’s largest private greenery, 'Den Grønne Verden,' and indulge in culinary delights at Spiseriet, a Michelin-starred restaurant that prides itself on using fresh local produce. The entire experience is designed to provide a cohesive blend of historical charm, minimalist design, and natural beauty, offering a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the Vipp lifestyle within an idyllic countryside setting. #VippFarmhouse #DanishDesign #MinimalistInterior #CountrysideEscape #HotelDesign #ScandinavianMinimalism #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalPreservation #LuxuryAccommodation

The Holms, a couple living in Odense, Denmark, initially envisioned a simple wooden farmhouse for their new home. However, architect Jan Henrik Jansen, known for offering multiple solutions for his projects, presented them with a radically different concept: a round house. To his surprise, the Holms immediately embraced this unconventional design. Jansen, a German architect who established Jan Henrik Jansen Arkitekter in Denmark, attributes the couple's adventurous spirit partly to the Danish national character, which he describes as having a fundamental interest in design, not limited to an upper-class clientele. The unique round shape of the house was strategically chosen due to its location, flanked by other residences. By orienting the house to face a green meadow, Jansen aimed to create a sense of living in open countryside, providing privacy and a connection to nature. The architect opted for brick as the primary building material, rather than the initially requested wood, to ensure the house blended harmoniously with the existing neighborhood. He also noted that the curved structure inherently called for a solid material like brick. Despite their enthusiasm for the design, the initial cost was a concern for the Holms. Finn Holm, who owns a corporate cleaning business, took on the role of general contractor to manage the project, a decision he later described as a two-year ordeal he would not repeat. A significant part of this arduous process involved Finn hand-cutting thousands of bricks from a demolished Carlsberg brewery in Copenhagen, a task that alone took six months and required enduring various weather conditions. The house, spanning 2,400 square feet, accommodates a blended family of six children from previous marriages, with three still living at home, along with a cocker spaniel. To manage the bustling household, Jansen designed the layout as a C-shape. The master suite is situated at one end, while the children's three bedrooms and a shared bathroom are at the opposite end. The living rooms, dining area, and kitchen are centrally located. Jansen explained that the curved design creates a sense of openness without feeling excessively exposed. Materially, the house primarily utilizes wood and brick. The interior curve of the C-shape features a triple-glazed thermal glass curtain wall. Even the radiant-heated floors are made of brick, sealed for easy maintenance. Jansen highlighted that the use of these traditional materials gives the house a timeless quality, suggesting it “could have been built 100 years ago.” Janni Holm, a doctor with a keen interest in design, took charge of the interiors, furnishing the space with her collection of Danish 1950s and 1960s furniture, which seamlessly integrates with the house’s curved architecture. Finn Holm particularly appreciates the constant connection to the outdoors, facilitated by the floor-to-ceiling glass, which offers views of a circular, cobblestone-paved courtyard featuring an outdoor fireplace for entertaining. Despite their neighbors' admiration, Janni noted with a smile that most couldn't imagine living in such an unconventional home. #Architecture #ResidentialDesign #UnconventionalHome #DanishDesign #BrickArchitecture #FamilyHome #InteriorDesign #SustainableMaterials

The holiday retreat named 'Ferskûle', a Frisian word meaning 'hidden', was designed by the Denkkamer design group and is situated on Schiermonnikoog, a Dutch Wadden island. This new structure replaces an existing residential unit and is discreetly nestled within lush greenery. The design adheres to strict island regulations, limiting the gross building envelope to a maximum of 110 square meters, which informed the compact yet defined building structure. The architectural composition features two solid volumes encased in yellow brickwork. These volumes are dramatically punctured by angular steel frames and large glass windows, allowing for expansive views of the surrounding landscape. The building is topped with a gently sloping roof, designed to seamlessly integrate the structure with its natural environment. The most prominent exterior feature is the large corner windows, which not only pierce through the solid mass but also provide occupants with direct visual contact with the outdoors. Denkkamer, the Dutch architectural practice behind the project, employed a consistent soft color palette throughout the design, evident in both the exterior facades and the interior spaces. While the exterior emphasizes stone-like, solid materials, the interior incorporates warm natural tones and gray finishes. Extensive use of wood is featured in the wall cladding and ceilings, contributing to a cozy and inviting atmosphere. The interior layout is thoughtfully arranged to maximize both views and functionality. A horizontal cut in the facade creates a recessed alcove that accommodates seating volumes and a workspace, offering panoramic vistas. The design also includes a bay window and a sunken sitting room, complete with a wood fireplace, enhancing the sense of comfort and connection to nature. Common areas are centrally located, with functions revolving around a central cooking counter within the living-dining zone. Private spaces, such as the bedrooms, benefit from ample natural light and views through large skylights. An underground foundation supports the light timber frame of the structure, providing stability and also creating several sunken seating pits in the basement of the holiday home. This architectural approach not only respects the island's building regulations but also enhances the living experience by blending the modern design with its natural surroundings, offering a secluded yet visually connected retreat. #DenkkamerDesign #HolidayRetreat #DutchArchitecture #SchiermonnikoogIsland #YellowBrickwork #CornerWindows #SustainableDesign #ResidentialArchitecture #InteriorDesign

Architect David Mann was tasked with renovating a beach house on Long Island that had accumulated various additions and changes over four decades. The original structure was a modest, shingle-sided ranch likely built in the 1950s, located on a creek off the Long Island Sound. Over the years, it underwent several expansions, including an extension in the 1960s and a more ambitious addition by an architect a decade or two later. The latter introduced a flat-roofed section, perpendicular to the original house, which housed a combined living and dining room upstairs and a playroom below. This addition expanded the house to between 3,500 and 4,000 square feet, making it airier and more open to the landscape through sliding glass walls. Mann's approach to the renovation was to respect the house's history while modernizing it. Unlike many architects who might drastically alter such properties, Mann appreciated the existing structure's 'humility' and the 'smart' modern interventions made by previous owners. The current owner, a recently divorced father seeking a fresh start for himself and his two young boys, desired a minimalist, Scandinavian-inspired design that was simple, livable, and easy to maintain, moving away from the crowded Hamptons. His vision included a preference for a modern aesthetic, characterized by 'casual attire' colors like tan and blue, rather than a traditional 'man cave' or ornate styles. Mann's primary intervention involved opening the kitchen to the living and dining areas, creating a large 'great room' that serves as the central hub for family life and entertaining. The kitchen was designed with sleek, lacquered cabinets and a large island to accommodate the boys. Across the house, Mann lightened the interiors by stripping and bleaching the formerly ebonized oak floors, which enhanced light reflection. He also added wood veneer to the ceilings and installed LED strip lighting within curtain valances to create a warm glow. The interior design prioritized comfort and functionality, with an emphasis on creating numerous spaces for relaxation and socializing. Furniture choices included contemporary leather club chairs, influenced by postwar Scandinavian designs, and low-profile pieces to maintain unobstructed views of the surrounding water and landscape. Mann favored furniture with exposed wood frames and minimized upholstery to prevent stains. Several vintage items, such as a rope chair in the entry, were incorporated to subtly nod to the home's 1950s origins. Mann drew inspiration from Venetian architect Carlo Scarpa, known for integrating contemporary elements into historical buildings while preserving their layered past. This philosophy guided Mann's renovation, viewing his work as merely the latest 'layer' in the house's evolving history, acknowledging that future owners might also make their own modifications. This approach ensured that the updated beach house remained coherent with its past while meeting the modern needs of its new occupants. #BeachHouseDesign #ModernRenovation #DavidMannArchitect #LongIslandHome #ScandinavianInterior #MidcenturyModern #FamilyLiving #ArchitecturalLayers

Mona Nerenberg, owner of the chic home-design shop Bloom in Sag Harbor, New York, and her partner Lisa Bynon, a landscape designer, transformed a dilapidated 19th-century cottage, known as Redbrook, in North Sea, Hamptons, into their summer home. Despite Nerenberg's shop embodying a perfect aesthetic, her personal home is described as more relaxed and filled with friends, family, and pets. The couple, who previously lived in a smaller two-bedroom home in Sag Harbor, sought more space and discovered the three-acre property online. They were immediately captivated by the picturesque, albeit overgrown, cottage, which Nerenberg affectionately called a “sleeping beauty covered in vines.” The cottage, originally owned by the Geers family who operated a fish market on the property, offered sweeping views and no immediate neighbors. The previous owners’ neglect meant the house featured run-down bathrooms and kitchen, and an attic infested with hundreds of bats. However, Nerenberg and Bynon were undeterred. They addressed the bat issue, refurbished the floors, and moved in with their two Bengal cats. Nerenberg, known for her minimalist taste, aimed for a renovation that would preserve the house’s original character while modernizing its functionality. Mark Cunningham, an ELLE DECOR A-List member and a close friend who also designed Bloom, collaborated on the home's interior. With Cunningham's assistance, the bathrooms were updated, retaining the original claw-foot tub but incorporating new fittings and penny-tile floors. The kitchen, once dark and uninviting, was revitalized with new windows, a beamed ceiling, and reclaimed paint-spattered wood planks from the attic, which had once served as an art studio. Cunningham also sourced many home accessories, art, and vintage furniture pieces from Nerenberg's shop, creating a cohesive aesthetic between the store and the home. The home features items such as an 18th-century Swedish table, vintage Pierre Jeanneret chairs, and a circa-1940 Marolles lamp. Bynon primarily focused on transforming the neglected gardens. She cleared overgrown trees and bushes, revealing manicured lawns, hedge-framed sections with ferns and flowers, a large vegetable garden, and a chicken coop. A new orchard of fruit trees is also underway. Despite Nerenberg's initial inclination against electric lighting, Cunningham convinced her to install elegant plaster chandeliers in the dining room, highlighting her appreciation for beautifully crafted, simple items. The interiors strike a balance between elegant and beachy, combining white linen upholstery, antiques, and natural elements like baskets and apple-matting rugs. Michael Dweck artworks and a Ralph Lauren Home sofa also feature in the home. Nerenberg acknowledged that the house remains a work in progress, aspiring for a modern style that still embraces its unique quirks. The home is consistently filled with family and friends, reinforcing its role as a vibrant living space rather than a showroom. This transformation, published in the July/August 2016 issue of ELLE DECOR, showcases a personalized and evolving design journey, emphasizing that a home, unlike a perfectly curated shop, is meant to be lived in and continuously evolve. #HamptonsDesign #SummerHouse #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #LandscapeDesign #VintageFurniture #MonaNerenberg #LisaBynon #MarkCunningham

Rikke Baumgarten, creative director and cofounder of Danish fashion brand Baum Und Pferdgarten, found her dream home in Copenhagen's historic Carlsberg neighborhood in 2021. She and her husband sought "romantic, architectural homes" with a sense of history, a preference that ultimately secured their current 3,800-square-foot villa. During a bidding war, despite offering a lower price, the couple was chosen by the previous owner because the competing bidders intended to remove the home's historic glass ceilings, which Baumgarten cherished. Built in the late 18th century by architect Oscar Kramp, the villa features Italian and South European architectural details that Baumgarten found particularly appealing. The property includes a substantial garden, where she enjoys spending time during warmer months. Having previously resided in an apartment, Baumgarten describes the move as akin to a permanent vacation, particularly in the summer, where she experiences a holiday-like atmosphere at home. Baumgarten's approach to interior decoration balances the home's historical elements with modern design. While her husband wished to preserve traditional features like the mahogany staircase and kitchen cabinets, Baumgarten revitalized them with vibrant colors and contemporary furnishings. For instance, a friend suggested painting the staircase, leading her to adorn it in vermilion and complement it with a fringed textile piece. Her design philosophy revolves around color, which serves as her initial point of interest for art and textiles, allowing her to blend modern art with vintage furniture seamlessly. In the primary bedroom, the ceiling, distinguished by its geometric pattern, is considered the most beautiful in the house and provides daily inspiration. Upon waking, Baumgarten's attention often turns to a set of bookshelves, a sleek system she installed after being inspired by a visit to the Museum of Modern Art in New York. She finds that having bookshelves in the bedroom, an unconventional choice, brings her a sense of calm and peace. Having settled into her new home, Baumgarten's older children have moved out, and she has focused her attention on enhancing her outdoor space, primarily investing in garden flowers. She envisions a future expansion to connect the kitchen to her adjacent atelier, allowing her to cook and engage in creative pursuits like painting or flower arranging simultaneously. Regardless of how often she rearranges art or changes sofa pillows, fresh flowers remain a constant element in her home, reflecting her appreciation for the magic of growing things from small seeds. #CopenhagenHome #FashionDesigner #HomeTours #InteriorDesign #HistoricHomes #ArchitecturalDetails #ModernEclectic #GlassCeiling #GardenLiving

Louise Andreasen's childhood dream of living in a specific 'patricia-villa' in Kerteminde, Denmark, materialized after she and her family moved back to her hometown. The house, which she admired on her way to school as a child, is located on Funen, known as Denmark's 'Garden Island,' a picturesque area with varied landscapes and close proximity to Copenhagen. Louise, who comes from a family deeply involved in design through Sika Design, a company specializing in handmade rattan furniture, developed a keen eye for aesthetics early on. Her mother's frequent redecorations and her father's involvement in furniture fairs shaped her appreciation for design and interiors. Upon returning to Kerteminde with her husband Jesper and their three sons, Louise discovered that her dream house was for sale. Despite its recent renovation into a modern style with mahogany, which she disliked, she and Jesper purchased it in 2003. Their goal was to restore its classic charm, embarking on extensive renovations. They gutted and remodeled the kitchen and both bathrooms, replaced windows, stripped back the mahogany flooring, and completely renovated the basement. The result is a serene and inviting home characterized by a white color palette, neutral accents, and rich textures, reflecting a classic Danish aesthetic. The interior design prioritizes natural light, with Louise opting to forgo curtains in the main living areas. During the darker winter months, she uses candles extensively, a common practice in Denmark to create a warm atmosphere. Her favorite spot in the house is at the dining table, where she can observe the changing seasons through the forest of beech trees behind her home. Beyond the house, Louise enjoys the outdoors year-round, whether cycling through the woods or sailing with her family, and prefers a wild, low-maintenance garden. Today, Louise and Jesper live with their golden retriever Molly and their son Kasper, while their other two sons, Mathias and Rasmus, reside nearby. Her parents also live close by, fostering a strong sense of community and connection, with friends and family within walking distance. Louise's professional life involves frequent international travel for Sika Design, which allows her to gather homewares from various countries, adding unique elements to her Scandinavian-inspired home. Despite her travels, she cherishes returning to her dream home and hometown, feeling fortunate to live where she always wanted. #DanishInterior #HomeRenovation #ClassicDesign #RattanFurniture #ScandinavianAesthetic #FamilyHome #Kerteminde #SikaDesign #OutdoorLiving

The article explores the "Scandinavian Coastal" interior design style, characterized by effortless chic and relaxed comfort, moving away from traditional nautical decorating clichés. This aesthetic emphasizes a laid-back feel, suitable for any home, regardless of its proximity to the sea. Key elements include natural textures and gentle colors, creating an airy and inviting atmosphere that reflects blue skies and calm waters. The style is notably different from preppy New England coastal designs or the tropical aesthetics of Palm Springs. Textile designer Cathy Nordström, who owns a summer house in Torekov, Sweden, highlights the low-key nature of Scandinavian coastal homes. She explains that these _sommarstuga_ or _sommerhus_ are often passed down through generations, fostering a relaxed and lived-in feel. This generational ownership contributes to a sense of charm and nostalgia, where modern updates are made while preserving the stories and history embedded in the home. Interior designer Pernille Lind emphasizes that Scandinavian coastal design's primary inspiration is a strong connection to nature. This means celebrating the surrounding landscape and sea, often by incorporating minimally covered windows that make the natural views central to the room's design. The aesthetic focuses on comfort and authenticity, often achieved by integrating vintage and salvaged materials to create a look that is neither overly precious nor contrived. To achieve this look, designers recommend starting with a neutral, layered color palette, typically featuring three to five shades, predominantly off-white and beige. Simplicity is celebrated, but without compromising warmth and character. The use of high-quality natural materials such as timber, linen, and stone is crucial, prioritizing quality over quantity. Wooden, shiplap-style wall paneling and ceilings, along with rustic yet tactile textures, contribute to the authentic feel. Pernille Lind also advises using consistent wooden flooring throughout the home to establish a cohesive foundation. When introducing patterns, the recommendation is to opt for simple stripes or soft geometrics, always in gentle colors, maintaining the understated elegance of the style. The overall philosophy revolves around functionality, a deep respect for nature, and a quiet sophistication that allows for a relaxed coastal lifestyle. This approach to design, while pared-down, is meticulously thought out, celebrating the laid-back lifestyle associated with the Scandinavian region, including traditions like sunbathing and saunas. The article also briefly mentions alternative Scandinavian design ideas for those who prefer more color and pattern, such as Scandinavian maximalism. #ScandinavianCoastal #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #SummerhouseStyle #NaturalMaterials #MinimalistDesign #DesignInspiration #HomeStyling #CoastalLiving

This article details the renovation of a 1930s brick farmhouse located on two acres of waterfront farmland in Silverdale, Washington, overlooking the Dyes Inlet. A couple, long-time residents of the Kitsap Peninsula, discovered this rare brick home and decided to preserve and transform it rather than demolish it. The project was undertaken by Seattle-based SHED Architecture & Design. Initially, the 2,182-square-foot farmhouse was deemed too small for the couple's lifestyle and frequent family visits. The strategic decision was made to convert the historic brick structure into a guest house while constructing a new primary residence for the owners. SHED Architecture & Design's approach involved preserving the original roof pitch and the east and west facades of the farmhouse. However, the south facade underwent a complete redesign to maximize the stunning water views of Dyes Inlet. A crucial element of this transformation was the integration of new and replacement windows from Andersen Windows & Doors, a preferred choice for SHED in their historic brick renovation projects. An existing small dormer on the second level was significantly expanded to incorporate two en suite bedrooms. Each of these new bedrooms was outfitted with windows strategically placed to enhance views. Directly beneath these new windows on the south facade, sliding glass doors were installed, aligning vertically with the dormers above. This vertical alignment creates an architectural effect where the glazing appears to cut through the roofline. Prentis Hale, principal at SHED, noted that this alignment of bedroom windows and sliding doors, expressed as a dormer punching through the extended roof eave, was a key design decision. The interior layout, which was previously fragmented, was also significantly improved. The main floor plan was opened up to create a more functional and cohesive living space, better suiting the clients' desired lifestyle. The new sliding glass doors in the living and dining areas not only frame the views but also enhance the indoor/outdoor flow. This redesigned living and dining space has become a favorite spot for the clients, particularly the dining table area where they can enjoy the water views. Hale emphasized the goal to 'daylight the main rooms of the house—living, kitchen, dining, and bedrooms—in a strong, architectural way that was integrated with the building.' The original 1930s farmhouse featured small, compartmentalized rooms centered around a hearth. By removing interior walls, SHED transitioned these separate spaces into an open-plan layout, ideal for social gatherings. For the historic renovation, Andersen E-Series windows were selected for their affordability, quality, and code compliance. The reconfigured 2,182-square-foot home now includes two bedrooms and two-and-a-half bathrooms. The upstairs en suite bedrooms are nearly symmetrical and benefit from the new south-facing dormer windows, which provide views of the Dyes Inlet. The interior design features warm, Scandinavian-inspired aesthetics, creating an inviting atmosphere for both the couple and their guests. The SHED team successfully modernized the farmhouse while preserving its inherent charm and structural integrity, demonstrating that direct design gestures can lead to remarkable outcomes. #FarmhouseRenovation #DormerExpansion #ArchitecturalDesign #WaterfrontProperty #HistoricPreservation #AndersenWindows #OpenPlanLiving #ScandinavianInterior #KitsapPeninsula

In Copenhagen Harbour, a two-story modern houseboat, designed by Danish designer and craftsman Søren Hvalsøe Garde, founder of Garde Hvalsøe, has found its permanent mooring between the opera house and Paper Island. This 1,507-square-foot floating residence showcases an integration of innovative living concepts with classic craftsmanship, marking a significant personal and professional achievement for Garde, who dedicated nearly two years to its realization. The genesis of this project stemmed from Garde's observations of his son residing in a floating community in Refshaleøen, where eco-conscious design and repurposed shipping containers offered affordable student housing. This experience ignited Garde's interest in the potential of water-based living. As a designer and maker, he recognized an opportunity to create a structure that harmonized his passion for functional aesthetics with his curiosity for unconventional living spaces. Securing an appropriate location was the most challenging aspect of the endeavor, given the high demand for harbor space in Copenhagen. After a protracted search, Garde successfully acquired an ideal spot, boasting scenic views and proximity to architecturally significant landmarks. The design phase proceeded in collaboration with architect Anders Halsteen, resulting in a houseboat that functions as both a dwelling and a design artifact. The houseboat was constructed in Poland and subsequently transported to its designated site in Copenhagen. Its design incorporates extensive glass walls that afford panoramic views of the harbor, complemented by strategically positioned terraces that provide elevated outdoor spaces. The exterior features dark wood cladding, mirroring the distinctive aesthetic of Garde Hvalsøe's custom wardrobes, thereby ensuring both privacy and a cohesive integration with the urban environment. The interior is characterized by bespoke elements and premium materials. The kitchen, a central area for Garde and his wife Rita, includes handcrafted Garde Hvalsøe cabinetry, a prominent stone countertop, and open shelving for culinary tools, reflecting their shared enthusiasm for cooking. The dining area is furnished with vintage pieces by Bruno Mathsson and Hans Wegner, contributing to a Scandinavian heritage ambiance, while contemporary lighting and minimalist design impart a sophisticated touch. Garde emphasizes his enjoyment of the creative process, noting that building from the ground up allows for precise customization, an approach consistent with his cabinetry company's philosophy. The material selection throughout the houseboat prioritizes both luxury and durability, featuring elements such as brass bathroom fixtures designed to develop a natural patina, Dinesen oak flooring, and concrete surfaces. This curated palette is understated yet rich in texture. Even the shower, finished with soft neutral tiles, conveys an understated elegance. Despite transitioning from a larger conventional home, the couple opted to prioritize communal areas over private rooms. The layout maximizes openness and spatial flow, with shared living spaces occupying a central role. An enclosed deck garden, ideal for outdoor dining during the warmer months, enhances the living experience, fostering a slower pace of life and an appreciation for the waterfront vistas. A notable feature is the custom-designed wine cellar, paneled in oak and climate-controlled by a system that utilizes the surrounding seawater. This exemplifies the meticulous fusion of form and function evident in every aspect of the home's design. Garde recollects the profound emotional impact of witnessing his floating home being towed into place on a calm summer evening. Since its arrival, life on the water has provided a renewed sense of tranquility. The subtle movement of the houseboat and the dynamic light patterns over the harbor have become integral to their daily routine, underscoring Garde's conviction that thoughtful design can enrich everyday existence. #ModernHouseboat #CopenhagenArchitecture #WaterfrontLiving #SorenHvalsoeGarde #GardeHvalsoe #DanishDesign #SustainableLiving #BespokeInteriors #CopenhagenHarbour

This article explores five key Danish design lessons observed during a brief trip to Copenhagen, focusing on how these principles can be applied to create cool yet cozy home interiors, especially during winter months. The author's journey began with an architectural tour, driven by an appreciation for craftsmanship and design narratives, particularly the iconic Black Diamond Library. Danish design is characterized by functionality, style, and an unfussy aesthetic, though achieving a warm Scandinavian feel can be challenging. The insights were gathered from various stylish locations, including restaurants, shops, and hotels in Copenhagen. One fundamental lesson highlights the importance of layered and iconic lighting. Given Denmark's limited winter daylight, the strategic use of lighting is crucial. This involves employing globe low-hanging pendants, Sputnik chandeliers, and a blend of ambient, task, and feature lighting to enhance atmosphere and functionality. The Hotel Alexandra in Copenhagen exemplifies this approach, emphasizing cozy lighting that creates an intimate ambiance, often achieved by hanging lights low and grouping them. The article notes the juxtaposition of various lighting designs, from soft warm glows to brighter white lights, and the prevalent use of candles to elevate spaces. Specific examples like Night Owl lamps from Fritz Hansen and marbled glass mushroom lamps are mentioned for their playful yet effective contributions to decor. The second lesson emphasizes the impact of even small pops of color in setting a room's tone. While neutral palettes are common in Scandinavian design, the Hotel Alexandra showcased how vibrant bookends and colorful accent chairs can significantly uplift spirits, especially when contrasted with cooler external environments. The article acknowledges a personal struggle with color shyness but points out how a simple change, such as swapping bedsheets, can dramatically alter a room's mood. Guidance on integrating color includes using blue with a grayish hue or a warmer stone color, combined with chromatic accents like green or vermillion red to achieve a Scandi aesthetic. Magnus Sangild of Mazo Design elaborates on color as a narrative, using subtle pastel wall tones and vibrant furniture to create a modern and inviting showroom. Chairs are presented as a significant opportunity for making a design statement, reflecting Copenhagen's rich furniture design heritage. Timeless chairs, designed for longevity and embodying the Danish aesthetic, are highlighted. The ARCH Lounge Chair by Magnus Læssøe Stephensen, crafted from steam-bent solid oak and paper cord, is cited as an example that combines natural materials with a bold design. The importance of comfort and functionality in chair design is underscored. The article mentions classic designs by Hans J. Wegner, Arne Jacobsen's Egg™ chair, and Poul Kjærholm's PK22™ design as examples of pieces that blend heritage, craftsmanship, and modern functionality, making them valuable additions to any home. The fourth lesson focuses on the instant timeless appeal of true craftsmanship. The article argues that fine design is an art, distinguishable by the meticulous care and thoughtful design applied to a piece of furniture. A commitment to quality materials and durability ensures that furniture can withstand the test of time, as exemplified by Mazo's TMBO Lounge Chair from 1935, which remains relevant and is expected to endure for decades. This dedication to lasting design reflects a commitment to sustainability. The tactile enjoyment derived from features like soft curves, buttery leather, fuzzy upholstery, or the grain of wood further emphasizes the value of incorporating handcrafted items into home decor, especially when they complement the home's natural architecture. Finally, the article suggests that incorporating just a touch of nature can elevate any space. This includes everything from Art Deco carvings on dining chairs to dried flower bouquets in tablescapes. Houseplants in overlooked corners, natural and raw materials, and organic forms help connect indoor spaces with the outdoors, bringing warmth and design essence regardless of the season. The article concludes by offering specific product recommendations that align with these Danish design principles, such as accent chairs, pendant lights, table lamps, and snake plants, to help readers infuse their homes with a Copenhagen-inspired cool and cozy aesthetic, emphasizing a balance between light and furniture through curved lounge pieces, natural upholstery, and colorful accessories. #DanishDesign #InteriorDesign #CopenhagenInspiration #HomeDecor #LayeredLighting #ColorTheory #FurnitureDesign #Craftsmanship #NaturalElements #ScandinavianStyle

Rasmus and Jette Ibfelt's summer house in Vejby, Denmark, a circa-1968 retreat, stands in stark contrast to their full-time Copenhagen residence. While their city home features bold paint, art, high ceilings, and herringbone floors, the summer house is designed for calm and relaxation, with crisp white walls and beams, and an open-plan kitchen, living, and dining area. The couple's primary goal for this renovation was to create a space that felt serene and low-maintenance, devoid of fussy elements like stain-prone marble or dust-collecting shelves. During the renovation, approximately 100 square feet were added to the house to accommodate a new bathroom and a third bedroom. The main room was gutted to create a streamlined kitchen and living area, shifting the focus towards the outdoors. The kitchen itself is a straightforward galley layout, intelligently divided by function. One side features a large island dedicated to food preparation, breakfast, displaying objects, and cooking. The opposite wall serves as a workhorse, housing the sink, dishwasher, and refrigerator. Rasmus emphasized that the island is also a sitting area, allowing for a clear distinction between functional and recreational zones within the kitchen. For the kitchen's construction, the Ibfelts enlisted friends who had previously worked on their Copenhagen home. The cabinets were sourced from Reform's Basis kitchen cabinet line, featuring off-white flat-slab fronts and butcher block counters, chosen for their understated appearance. To maintain a connection to the home's history and discourage overcomplication, an original blueprint of the house was hung above the kitchen sink, symbolizing respect for the original design while allowing for modern adjustments. To prevent the space from appearing too generic, considering the flat-slab white cabinets and grayish-white wood floors, the couple incorporated lighting with a distinct personality. They chose Grupa's Arigato lights, known for their practical yet playful design. These fixtures offer 360-degree rotation and 125-degree swivel capabilities, allowing for precise illumination of specific countertop areas. The renovation also prioritized a stronger connection between the interior and the deck, achieved by installing a sliding door. A secondhand grayish-blue table, professionally painted years ago, and a mix of chairs from Please Wait to Be Seated are positioned in front of this new opening, facilitating easy movement between indoor and outdoor spaces. Further outdoor enhancements include an outdoor shower added in the past two months and a pergola that is still awaiting full coverage by vining plants to create a shaded dining spot. The Ibfelts intentionally avoided excessive external alterations, preserving the charming aesthetic of the original house. Their philosophy for the summer home is centered on being laid-back and inviting, fostering an environment suitable for spontaneous gatherings like sunset drinks and fresh strawberries, rather than a showpiece. The overarching sentiment is that the house should not be "too big or too much," but rather a relaxed and welcoming retreat. #GalleyKitchen #DenmarkHome #SummerHouseRenovation #KitchenDesign #StreamlinedKitchen #ReformCabinets #ArigatoLights #IndoorOutdoorLiving

This article showcases the unique interior design styles of three designers, Jenny Powell, Edward Girardi, and Biff Bartron, as demonstrated in their personal homes. Each designer offers insights into their design philosophy, material choices, and practical tips for creating functional and aesthetically pleasing living spaces. Jenny Powell, owner of Somethings Unique, resides in a spacious Landenberg home with her family. Her design approach emphasizes a blend of elegance and family-friendliness, incorporating a relaxed European style with Scandinavian influences. After moving into their home, the Powells lightened dark wood floors and painted walls in pastel yellow and beige to create a brighter atmosphere. Powell's design is characterized by mixing old and new elements, such as Swedish Rococo-style sidechairs paired with contemporary fabrics, and the use of natural light and preserved greenery. Key elements of her home include fauteuil chairs from Spain with a gray-blue glaze, silk curtains in two colors, and durable microsuede upholstery for family-friendly living. The kitchen features granite countertops and unique hammered metal hardware, while the sunroom offers a casual dining space with a pine farmhouse table. Powell's home is adorned with her father's art, and she advocates for mixing styles, choosing tactile materials, incorporating personal art, and using a soft Scandinavian color palette. Edward Girardi, a proponent of high-rise living, has transformed his 16th-floor condominium in Wilmington into a sophisticated urban sanctuary. His design focuses on maximizing space and functionality in a compact environment. Girardi converted an adjoining unit into an intimate media room, painted in a custom purple-tinged gray. He meticulously blends his own paint colors and uses a sophisticated neutral palette as a backdrop for his home. A large, self-painted contemporary artwork dominates the living room, complementing the angular, masculine aesthetic. He repurposed a cocktail table by replacing its gold top with etched glass and staining the wood mahogany. Girardi's philosophy includes investing in neutral basics and updating accessories with lively prints. He emphasizes grouping family photos for impact and keeping them current. The dining area features a glass and chrome table for spaciousness, and custom built-in cabinets hide a bar and storage. His galley kitchen is designed for efficiency, with ceiling-height cabinets, slate tiles, and cork flooring. In the bedroom, a contemporary pedestal bed is paired with Shaker nightstands, and the space is unified by painting moldings and doors the same color as the walls. Girardi's advice for small spaces includes using larger tiles, decluttering with built-in storage, grouping pictures, measuring furniture carefully, and using solid colors to enlarge a space. Biff Bartron, a partner in BW Design Group, showcases an elegant California ranch home in Wilmington that balances luxury with simplicity, reflecting his preference for peaceful, spa-like environments. Despite initially being in disrepair, Bartron envisioned an open, light-filled space. He renovated in stages, prioritizing the kitchen and bathrooms. The enlarged kitchen features two dishwashers, three microwave ovens, stainless steel sinks, granite counters, and porcelain tile floors that mimic limestone. Sleek cherry cabinets with frosted glass panels and a pass-through window enhance light. A clever design integrates a Sub-Zero refrigerator, with the back half extending into the garage. Bartron unified the public spaces by installing dark ebony-stained hardwood floors. The dining table has an acid-treated copper top, and the living room offers comfortable seating for 11 around a baby grand piano. A chocolate brown daybed and silk curtains frame a bay window, allowing the city lights to become part of the decor. His color palette and simple furniture highlight a dramatic art piece from Paris. The powder room features hand-painted bamboo shoots and polished river rocks in the sink, adding a surprise element. The master bath is a spa-like retreat with a large stone shower and bamboo accents. Guest rooms on the lower level open to a private garden, and a secondary kitchen caters to entertaining. Bartron upgraded lighting and installed a whole-house stereo system. His recent addition of an Asian-inspired front porch creates a tranquil entry. Bartron recommends an Asian-inspired palette, using frosted glass for light and privacy, pampering oneself with luxury baths and linens, keeping window treatments simple to preserve views, and choosing durable materials for pet and family-friendly living. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #DesignerHomes #ScandinavianDesign #UrbanLiving #ModernRanch #SpacePlanning #Renovation #HomeStyling