House Tours
An enchanting farmhouse becomes a rustic holiday retreat
Image: Carina Olander | Styling: Anna Truelsen
House Tours
An enchanting farmhouse becomes a rustic holiday retreat
With heaps of country character enticing all to curl up and stay awhile, this Swedish family abode will inspire you to live simply this season.
Nestled deep in the Swedish countryside lies a 1,700-square-foot family home that embodies something special – particularly come Christmastime. The enchanting 1880s farmhouse, which is home to Frida and Harry Jolsgård and their two young children, doesn’t require shiny baubles or other festive fixtures to be heard; instead, its traditional architecture and storied past do the talking, while simple seasonal adornments serve to reinforce its year-round charm. It’s no wonder the homeowners have declared it the place they intend to spend a lifetime.
Here, we draw inspiration from their rustic Scandinavian retreat to help your space graduate from merry to memorable this December.
1. Let the light shine in.
On the windowsill sits a pyramid-shaped candelabra – a traditional Swedish decoration that provides a warm, welcoming glow during the long winter months and signals that the Christmas countdown has begun. There’s also no need for artwork when the outdoor view is akin to a painting.
2. Add touches of red to the traditional Scandi colour scheme.
It doesn’t get much more Scandinavian than a wintry white scheme combined with wools and wooden elements (the rustic trestle table is a stunning showpiece). However, it’s the hits of red in the toss cushions and runners that add an extra layer of warmth and bring this kitchen to life.
3. Keep with the rustic theme.
For their holiday party, the homeowners perked up place settings with apples and fir sprigs to continue the classic red and green palette to the tablescape. Every single element, including the burlap napkins and the potted tree centrepiece, speaks to the home’s rustic and earthy style.
4. Add charm with traditional trinkets.
A sparse Christmas tree is given new life when adorned with simple ornaments, such as glistening red balls and tiny straw stars. Electric candles take the place of string lights, lending an elegant vintage look.
5. Add subtle festive touches.
The farmhouse’s country chic bathroom boasts a black and white scheme that lets subtle seasonal accents pop. The petite tree, red glass candlestick and large hanging star in the window work as one to inject the space with festive flair.
6. Include plenty of wooden elements for warmth.
Take one peek at this lodge-like bedroom and you’ll wonder how the homeowners ever manage to leave. Wooden features, from the plank ceiling and flooring to the well-worn armoire, add an abundance of warmth and texture, which are essential this time of year.
7. Ensure the bed is inviting.
Fitted with red and white sheets, the bed becomes all the cozier when seen as an escape from the chilly outdoors. The corresponding pillowcases were repurposed from old towels.
8. Add a hint of whimsy.
Red apples dangle delicately from a branch that’s bedecked with fresh fir boughs. The whimsical
adornments mimic sparkly ornaments hanging from a tree.
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