I’m finding it really difficult to get motivated at the moment. Working, decorating – even blog writing – all seem very hard to do right now. It took me a little while to figure out why, and then I realised: much of Europe is in Holiday Mode! For Swedish people, taking a holiday in July is entrenched, so naturally my body is also ready for that well-deserved break. Scandinavians really do get the balance of work and rest just right.
In the meantime, I’m daydreaming about a trip home to Sweden in a couple of months. I’ve been looking for a sophisticated yet simple place to stay with the children, and I came across this unbelievable family and pet-friendly hostel north of Sweden. It’s close to where my family and I stayed on holidays as a child, and it brought back so many happy memories as soon as I saw it. The hostel, which has its own vegetable and herb garden, is surrounded by bushland and is just a stone’s throw from the water, which has a jetty to swim from. It’s like a postcard!
Inside, the hostel is just as inspiring and nostalgic. The communal living space is open and inviting, with high ceilings and white beams for added character. A couch piled with cushions and sheepskins adds extra warmth. The Swedish really do know how to effectively use textures to create a homely, inviting décor.
The hostel has its own restaurant and café, which are similarly homely. Here they serve sustainable, locally grown food, and the atmosphere is just perfect for communal dinners with family and friends. I love the black SMEG fridge and the eclectic mix of chairs and kitchen sofas …. all perfect for a long, relaxing meal, Scandinavian style. The antlers add a quirky touch and remind me of the wild animals in the Swedish forest – I can’t wait to teach my children about them when they’re bigger. The white cotton pendant light is just divine and is a nice contrast to the tiles and timber.
The attention to detail in this hostel is just amazing. I know my children will be drawn to this corner of the kitchen area, with its curious collection of nick-nacks. And how beautiful is this collection of vignettes? It all comes together to create the homely and peaceful feeling I am craving at the moment.
On the upper level of the hostel there’s an amazing bright, white room with spectacular views. What a perfect space to relax in with the children after a long day playing outdoors.
And then, when the day’s over, you can retire to the simple, pared-back bedroom with it’s soft, natural light. If I close my eyes I can almost imagine myself there …
Of course, it’s just wishful thinking for the moment. But what a lovely place to daydream about …
Images from Fantastic Frank