Swedish Feed

Swedish Feed

For The Love Of Collecting Antiques – A Swedish Interior

 

“After about seven years, I could buy a really nice piece of furniture once a year,” she says. “I was reading Architectural Digest, World of Interiors and every shelter magazine and design book I could get my hands on. I was just enthralled with design. The spectrum of collecting was appealing to me.”

She began what she calls “guerrilla hunting” for antiques to furnish her own living space. In New Orleans, she found a European ambience in step with her affinity for European antiques, renovated the first of two Victorian cottages and turned her collecting pastime into a wholesale business that immediately had legs via word of mouth. She sold her first container of antiques in front of a mini storage space in 10 minutes and quickly became a valued resource to well-known interior designers.

Along the way, she opened a warehouse on Camp Street, started her own line of European antique reproductions — Tara Shaw Maison — designed homes for a list of clients that includes celebrities, and inked a lucrative licensing deal with Restoration Hardware that allowed her to cut back on her travel schedule.

Read more at nola.com

Guides - Rustic Nordic Country Style

The Beautiful Wall Paintings Of von Echstedtska gården In Sweden

 

See more pictures of these wall paintings on Miras Mirakel’s blog.

 

 

Picture Credit – naturbilder.biz

 

von Echstedtska gården – Picture Credit – trippa.se

 

 

I stumbled across a post from Miras Mirakel’s blog about an enchanting farm called “von Echstedtska gården” located in Saffle, Sweden.  The pictures immediately caught my attention.

What is really captivating about this mansion is the beautiful wall murals.  You have to wonder whose talent that was through history.  Was it one woman, or a few talented residents? I really don’t know.    When you look at the pictures, pay attention to the faux marble panels and trim.  My goodness, someone in time had some incredible talent!

Here is what Wikipedia tells us about this beautiful mansion:

Wikipedia:

The farm was built during the years 1762–1764 by the assessor Bengt von Echstedt . The outside has a Carolingian touch. On the inside, the rococo blooms in the murals, among other things. A gazebo and secret house flank on either side of the main building, below are double pairs of wing buildings. The secret house has unique ceiling paintings that depict the landlord with his first wife elegantly sitting on the exit with courting servants. At the farm there is an apple farm with old Värmland apple varieties .

The farm was threatened at the beginning of the 20th century to be moved to Skansen but avoided this by Värmlands Museum buying the farm in 1939. The buildings and interiors were thoroughly restored in the 1950s, 1992–93 and even later.

More Pictures To View :

Von Echstedtska Gården, Västra Smedbyn, 661 94 Säffle, Sweden

Textile exhibition at Echstedtska gården in Säffle – 5/29/2021 – tellerreport.com

 

Värmlands Museum has had the help of the art historian Lars Sjöberg, he has borrowed from his collections and is an expert on 18th century interiors.

– When you furnish a home, you dress it in textile, he explains.”

 

von Echstedtska gården – Picture Credit – trippa.se

von Echstedtska gården – Picture Credit Trip Advisor

 

 

 

von Echstedtska gården – Picture Credit – trippa.se

von Echstedtska gården – Picture Credit Trip Advisor

 

 

Picture seen on spokhistorier

 

von Echstedtska gården – Picture Credit – trippa.se

 

von Echstedtska gården – Picture Credit – trippa.se

von Echstedtska gården – Picture Credit Trip Advisor

von Echstedtska gården – Picture Credit – trippa.se

von Echstedtska gården – Picture Credit – trippa.se

von Echstedtska gården – Picture Credit – trippa.se

DIY - Do It Yourself Swedish Home

400 Professional Designers Picked Green As The ” Color For 2022 ” In A Recent Survey

HomeGoods Style Expert Beth Diana Smith predicts that, in 2022, many will go green by decorating around green-hued decor.

“Green [is] definitely the color of 2022!”

the owner and principal designer of Beth Diana Smith Interior Design tells SheKnows. “Six paint brands opted to choose green for their color of the year inspired by the latest fashion and home trends. Additionally, green has been trending in wellness as greens are associated with self-care, nourishment and zen energy. So, as consumers continue to prioritize mental health, we’ll continue to see green throughout our spaces as we look to infuse calming colors.”

Look at this:

A recent survey from Sherwin-Williams, which included more than 400 professional designers, found that emerald green was the top prediction for the most on-trend color in 2022.

Interiors decorated around the color of green.  Do you see anything here you love? 

Darker Green Inspired Interiors

Gustavian Chest –chairish.com

Swedish Inspired Furniture

Swedish Inspired Furniture

Swedish Inspired Furniture

 

 

gustavienne.com

DIY - Do It Yourself Swedish Home

5 Scandinavian Interior Design Tricks – Megan Slack

Lighter Colors are used in this interior, whose picture appeared on the cover of Classic Swedish Interiors

1. Use large windows to emphasize natural light

Thanks to the nation’s famously dark winters, Finnish designers are experts at emphasizing light in the most effective ways possible, and Villa Lumi is certainly no exception. The home uses large window panes and no window dressings to ensure the home is illuminated as efficiently as possible. While all homes may are not designed in the same way as Villa Lumi, we can still the architect’s technique with any kind of window, as Helsinki based Interior Designer Helena Karihtala shares:

‘Due to long winters, the use of natural light is considered to be important, and we usually prefer large windows. Keeping the windows bare or using light curtains helps make the space feel open and full of natural light. The walls are also almost always a shade of white, making most of natural light.’

Read more at livingetc.com

 

 

Mirrors are another classic Swedish design trick to add more light into a room.  Face the mirror opposite of a window to bounce light off of.

brownrigg-interiors.co.uk

 

 

Guides - Swedish Paint Finishes

30 Gray Toned Paint Colors For Swedish Styled Interiors – Behr

In this link, Quinn pieces together 30 of the best gray paint shades from Behr.  Where it gets interesting is for you to determine exactly what undertones you like.

In this article, there are 5 categories of undertones.  Blue, Purple, Green, Orange and Red.  Over time, most people usually lean towards either a cool collection, or warm arena.

Later in the article, what really makes the choice more complex is LIGHTING.  An example is given in the article, where a room is photographed at different times of the day.  One picture shows a light gray, and another showing a very clear blue.  Long story short, test your samples before buying large quantities of paint.

Have you ever found a paint color that looks absolutely incredible day and night in a particular room, only to bring it into another room, and have it look entirely different?

I recently painted over my basement this summer.  I had a color that worked in any room in my upstairs, so I figured, I would just go with that color downstairs too.

Many years ago I hand mixed colors, and found one that worked.  It works night and day.  It just looks incredible.  Its a darker gray, with undertones of green.  Its not overly dark.

I had it made up for my basement, and it turned out awful in that room.  No matter how hard I tried messing around with the shade, the simple fact, the lighting is different in my basement.  I shoved the paint in a closet, and started over.

You need to read the article- Behr

DIY - Do It Yourself Swedish Home

Bringing The Garden In For The Winter

 

 

Chinoiserie Green Gold Late 1700s Gustavian Rococo Mora Clock – 1st Dibs

Swedish Long Case Mora Clock, Kramfors, Sweden, 1st Dibs

Swedish Mora Clock, In Texas – 1st Dibs

Beautiful distressing of old Swedish furniture

Louis XV Style Bergère Chair – $1250 Chairish

 

Light and Airy Sunroom  – Vibeke Design

vibekedesign.blogspot.com – Scandinavian Blog

 

Have you ever thought about these peg boards as full walls?  Its not a bad idea. 

houseandhome.com

 

Scandinavian Kitchens – Classic shaker kitchen in green — Nordiska Kök

nordiskakok.com

 

 

Foxglove Sage Botanical Sage Wallpaper – Home Depot

 

Canvas Organizer – food52.com

Thifty garden storage – bhg.com,  Potato cleaner  – Grit Magazine,

PVC Pipe Trellis – remodelista.com, Shoe container garden starts – almanaquesos.com

 

 

Image Seen On gucki.it

 

7 Ways to Love Copper and Green

stowandtellu.com

 

Rust on brown.  Isn’t this a fabulous way of showing off your tools?  –

Photo by JerBear2010 on Flickr

 

 

Isn’t this an interesting way of organizing your garden planting ? 

Must-Know Storage Secrets for Your Garden Shed – Better Homes And Gardens

 

 

 

Spectacular Dream 19th Century Swedish Green Panted Chest From Chairish

 

 

A pretty wallpaper with charming woodland creatures trees and toadstools. Swedish designer Hannah Wendelbo. – wallpaperdirect.com

Tones Of Green – johnderian.com

 

Featured - Swedish Resources

The Home Office – Why Not Make Yours Unique ?

The Home Office

When the country was instructed to work from home if possible, there were some happy novelties- namely endless cups of tea and waking up ten minutes before your first meeting of the day. But then Zoom calls became exhausting, interrupted by children or pets, and the home WiFi cracked under the pressure. The line between working life and free time became increasingly blurred.

Love it or loathe it, working from home for lots of professions is going to remain prominent. Creating the perfect home office space is vital for the most productive and aesthetic work environment. A study ought to provide an oasis of calm amidst the chaos. Technical equipment is the interior designer’s worst nightmare and the key to reconciling cables and screens with attractive furnishings is storage and clever use of space.

Read more at lorfordsantiques.com

Swedish Feed

The Light And Airy Furniture Of Sweden

Dawn Hill Antiques

Swedish furniture is in a class of its own. From the exuberant decoration of the Rococo style with an abundance of curves and natural motifs that gave way in the late 1700s to the restrained Gustavian style, Swedish furniture appeals to many. Owing to its clean lines and simplicity, it mixes well with other styles, both traditional and modern.

“You cannot talk about Swedish design without first considering the natural environment of Sweden. It is a country of islands, with the sea on one side and the interior populated by dense forests,” said antique dealer Paulette Peden of Dawn Hill Antiques in New Preston, Conn. “In the winter months there is a very short period of daylight, so the Swedish people craved the light, and created rooms painted with pale colors, and light furniture to make the most of the precious daylight.” The Gustavian style was named for Sweden’s King Gustav III (1746-92), during whose reign the talented craftsmen of the Stockholm Guild made well-designed furniture like chairs, tables, secretaries, cupboards and settees.

Read more – liveauctioneers.com

DIY - Do It Yourself Swedish Home

Slipcovers Have Always Been Popular Through Time – Swedish Decorating

Larsson, Carl (1853-1919)

Among the Swedish artist Carl Larsson’s many watercolours of the house he shared with his wife, Karin, and eight children, is one of their sitting room that radiates a pleasing sense of domesticity — a discarded newspaper and shoes, a sleeping dog, a rug hung nonchalantly over the arm of the sofa. But it is the blue-and-white striped loose cover of the sofa that does most to enhance the relaxed feeling of this elegant space. Larsson painted it in 1895, a time when Victorians, such as the family of another artist, Linley Sambourne, were living among buttoned, fringed and tightly upholstered splendour at 18, Stafford Terrace that remains a monument to the Victorian decorative exuberance (both artists’ houses are open to the public).

As with so many of the key ingredients in classic decoration, there’s a deeply practical rationale behind the loose cover: namely, that it can be washed and changed at will. In the past, they were often fitted to protect furniture or changed according to the season. They also soften the look of a sofa or chair by hiding its legs.

Read more – countrylife.co.uk

Featured - Swedish Resources

The Couple Behind D. Larsson Interior and Antikhandel – Swedish Antiques

In the nine years since they founded D. Larsson Interior and Antikhandel, Daniel and Cristina Larsson have become among the world’s leading purveyors of 18th- and 19th-century painted Swedish antiques. Yet just 12 years ago, they were both on very different paths.
D. Larsson Cristina and Daniel Larsson

Married couple Cristina and Daniel Larsson, of D. Larsson Interior and Antikhandel, specialize in 18th- and 19th-century Swedish antiques, which they mix with vintage and modern pieces in their own home. Top: Their living room features an 18th-century Swedish Baroque table, a 1970s coffee table and a ca. 1775 Gripsholm armchair. All photos by Francisco Caires

Swedish-born Daniel was in Amsterdam working in customer relations for KLM airlines and dealing in vintage modern furnishings on the side. This was a hobby he picked up while living in Stockholm. Finding inexpensive pieces at Swedish flea markets, he would finish them himself — “Woodshop was my best subject at school,” he says with a laugh — and then drive to England to sell them at the country’s open-air antiques markets to British and American dealers.

Read more 1stdibs.com

D. Larsson Interior and Antikhandel

Swedish Feed

Find Little Ways To Wow – Dara Caponigro

As a former editor for home decor magazines, Dara Caponigro has spent her career immersed in decorating. Dara shares her timeless style with Better Homes And Gardens Magazine.

Find little ways to wow :

“Style isn’t always about making a big splash. You can add it in small doses. Bold, eye-catching wallpaper in the back of cupboards or between shelves in bookcases is a wonderful way to make a big statement in a small way.”

See the rest of her advice here bhg.com/

Swedish Feed

6 Colors You’ll Find In Every Scandinavian Home – Laura Barry

Swedish 18th Century Gustavian Pine Desk –1st Dibs

The regions fondness for natural materials, muted color palettes and fine craftsmanship set the standard high when it comes to interior design, however achieving the same look in your own home isn’t that hard.

Scandinavian interior design is about embracing what nature has already presented us with. Using timber for furniture, buttery soft leather for upholstery or soft furnishings and looking to wool, linen and cotton for bedding and accessories. But it isn’t just the use of natural fibres that demonstrates the Scandinavian love of nature, it’s the color palette that’s entirely inspired by the naturally occurring shades  found in forests and landscapes.

If you’re trying to inject a little bit of Scandinavian style into your home the first thing to do is rethink your color palette, and try using these six colors that appear in all Scandi-inspired interiors.

1. Forest Green

This rich shade of green offers a home the perfect balance of on-trend color that still feels timeless. Work a forest green cushion, throw blanket or linen duvet set into your interior scheme and finish off with a dark green foliage plant to complete the forest transformation.

Read more at bhg.com.au

Swedish Feed

5 Decorating Mistakes Not To Make – By Gabrielle Savoie

1. Being Afraid Of Contrast

“People with great style have a natural understanding of scale and proportion,” New York-based interior designer Alyssa Kapito chimes in. “Having everything in a room at the same height and scale is a rookie mistake — it’s the contrast that makes things interesting. Try oversize artwork next to a pair of petite lamps or incorporating height into your room with sky-high curtains.”

2. Focusing On The Television

“A lot of people decorate their apartments surrounding their television, but your TV does not have to be the central focal point of your room,” says Babba Canales, a N.Y.-based Swedish It girl and brand marketing professional.

Read More – ajc.com

Guides - Nordic Decorating

Swedish Inspired Kids Bedrooms

 

Located in a sunny 1,250-square-foot bungalow, Madre features children’s clothing and accessories, furniture, lighting, artwork, handmade ceramics, and gifts. Locally made headboards, slipper chairs, desks, and side tables are offered alongside works by Kate Schelter, Caitlin McGauley, and photographer Gray Malin. Custom upholstery, wallpaper installation, and other design services are also available. “Our goal for the store was to showcase our style and fill a niche in the Dallas market that we felt was missing,” says Marsh. See this article at architecturaldigest.com

This room was designed by the ladies of Madre in Dallas. Seen at Mollyculverblog.com

Chelsea School Hand-Painted and Gilt Bisque Porcelain Bust – Ebay

Isabella Bed Twin Redford House Cane Wood 25 Cottage Paints Stains- Coachery Barn

A custom canopy with pink trim – skonahem.com

LA Home –House Beautiful Magazine

Safari Nursery Art Prints Set of 6 – Amazon

Select from a group of waterprints

Alphabet Cards –Children Inspire Design

Ethan Allen | Disney Hyperion Double Dresser, Mouse Grey – $1200

Vintage Doll Carriage –susirydahl.blogspot.com

DIY - Do It Yourself Swedish Home

Get The Exact Pattern You Want With Stenciling Fabric – DIY Swedish Decorating

Fabric can be costly today, particularly when you are requiring a great deal of it. Not just that, it may be hard to find the ideal fabric with the correct color combinations.  Stencils could solve that problem. 

Stenciled looks have traditionally been found in and around the Nordic nations.  With forests vastly available, walls and furniture were often painted and decorated. 

In fact, some of the most beautiful painted furniture comes from the Nordic countries. We all love bows, wreaths and florals, and those elements have always been popular in Sweden.  Rosemåling was another style that started in the valleys of Norway.  Rosemåling first showed up around 1750 when the Baroque and Rococo styles were brought into the countryside of Norway. 

With having a second baby in July, I wanted to work with gray toned colors in our new baby’s room, but had some trouble locating fabric to go with it.  When Emily Rosas offered me some stencils from her shop Stencil Revolution.com it was an open door for me to experiment with stenciled drapery.  I want to thank Emily for sending such high quality stencils for me to try.  I ended up going with the dragonfly stencil in the 5×6 size. 

 

Having two kids, this was a daunting task for me, but as I got into it, I found that the stencil itself produced a clean image without a lot of effort.  I didn’t use spray adhesive, and honestly worked from one print to the next as quickly as I could.  Having kids, you simply don’t have a lot of time to spend being precise.  In the end, you really don’t notice the slight imperfections and it happens to be the key feature in the room.

Here is what I did:

I bought canvas drop cloths from Home Depot.  The 6 feet by 9 feet is the ideal size if you don’t want to do too much sewing.  I have used these same drop cloths for floor to ceiling curtains in my garage, in all my bedrooms and they have worked out terrific.  Most of the time only one edge needs to be sewn. 

One thing to take note of is…  when you are in Home Depot, they may have two slightly different colors with this brand of drop cloth.  One which is more gray, and the other which is slightly more creamy ivory.  If you are selecting more than one drop cloth, keep that in mind.

I simply laid the drop cloth on my kitchen table with a roll of paper under my drop cloth.  You will want to do this otherwise you will be scrubbing paint off your surface in the end.

I looked up DIY fabric paint online, and what they suggest is to mix white glue, shaving cream and your paint into one.  The paint turns into more of a puffy paint which works rather well for stenciling.  In fact, the paint doesn’t leak out of the stencil lines.  To be honest, I didn’t follow any recipe.  I put in mostly equal parts of white glue and shaving cream and it worked out quite well.   If you put too much shaving cream in, you may have a garment smelling like the fragrance of the shaving cream, (like I did)…  but it wears off in a matter of days. 

What do you think?  Would you consider stenciling fabric for your interior?  If so, what would you do? 

Thank you for visiting. 

DIY - Do It Yourself Swedish Home

5 Kitchen Design Lessons You Can Learn from Scandinavian Interiors

Picture Credit – ladyinspirationsblogg.se

Guest Post – Jason Phillips

Elegance and style along with a sense of simplicity and functionality, those are the words that describe the Scandinavian interior designs. More and more modern homes are seen to adopt this minimalist European design style mainly because of its modern and neutral appeal.

If you’re planning to renovate your kitchen or overall house, then choosing Scandinavian designs could offer you a vast and eclectic taste of design movement, unique, and minimalistic designs in your home.

Picture 1 – godsochgardar.se

Picture 2 – lovelylife.se

Picture 3 – antikochauktion.se

Picture 4 – antikochauktion.se

Maintaining the natural light is very important

Being in the far north, the Scandinavian designs tend to flood the interiors with light. This determined the Scandinavians to enjoy, cherish, and appreciate the important factor of natural daylight in their life. Light is very important for our well-being which is why being illuminated by the environment tend to create more positivity in your life.

To adapt to this design, during the winter season you can get rid of the heavy curtains or throw away the silly ornaments that block the light. If privacy is the main reason for those covers, you might consider using wooden shutters or sheer fabric on windows in your kitchen or any rooms in your house.

Additionally, Scandinavian designs are mostly focused on white, clean, simple, and pure color. This is because the color reflects light and encourages it to bounce around the kitchen spaces and brightens them. You should also add mirrors in your kitchen in order to let the light to stay.

Picture 1 – mydesignchic.com

Picture 2 – lantliv.com

Cosiness and warmth

As you can see in the different Scandinavian designs, coziness and warmth are important. To adapt this, you should add more natural wood into your home, whether on furniture, floor, or wall panels or kitchen backsplash. Wood offers a welcoming feel and adds more coziness to the kitchen.

You could also add candles to produces the Scandinavian feeling of warmth and coziness. As fire is the natural source of light, placing simple stick candles on the tea holders around your kitchen or even in the living room will create a fairytale-like atmosphere.

Picture 1- seventeendoors.blogspot.se

Picture 2 – feasthome.com

Picture 3 – snickeritallkotten.se

Picture 4 – linaostling.se

Lifestyle nature

Scandinavian designs also focus on nature as it is the heart of the design. Living the life with a healthy attitude is being cherished and practiced so to adopt this, you can add greenery and plants into your home to add more environment and natural feel. Plants are known to provide fresh air and it makes us feel better and beat the winter blues.

Rustic wood grain and interior plants and flowers is a great way to make the space more relaxing and vibrant. Remember, incorporating live elements into your kitchen space will make the interior look modern and fresh.

Picture 1 – detvitadarhuset.blogspot.com

Picture 2 – myscandinavianhome.com

Picture 3 – bloglovin.com

Picture 4 – lady-gray-dreams.tumblr.com

White wood floors

As mentioned earlier, the Scandinavian design focuses on white and pure colors from floor to ceiling. So, if you want to adopt this style, renovating your kitchen floor and change it with white wood floors can make the room seem open, clean, and airy. Grey color and wood (pine or birch) are also alternative choices for keeping the interior flooring design simple yet elegant-looking.

Simplistic yet artful Scandinavian kitchen furniture

Aforementioned, Scandinavian design focuses on the minimalist designs in both exteriors and interiors of the home. Modern furniture took advantage of the innovative textiles which can be seen via antiques and current designs. Amazing craftsmanship with the use of high-quality materials will always be seen in the Scandinavian furniture designs. It is well seen and being adapted by the different kitchen designs throughout the world.

Choosing simple yet detailed and artful kitchen cabinets or countertops based on the Scandinavian design is a perfect way to adapt to this European modern design style. Adding antique components or materials with clear smooth lines and organic shapes can defy a simple and minimal design which could also add an aesthetic look to your home.

It is no wonder why more and more modern houses adapt the Scandinavian interior design because of its simplicity, functionality, minimalism, love of nature, and elegance. So, if you’re planning to renovate your kitchen, living room, or any area of your home seek for professional home renovator’s help to do this.

DIY - Do It Yourself Swedish Home

Jenny’s DIY Wide-Plank Plywood Flooring Studio Renovation

Check out these absolutely beautiful pictures of Jenny’s studio space made over with plywood cut into planks:

I found the plywood I wanted, took a photo of the price tag, and walked up to the customer service desk. I placed an order for 25 sheets and I asked for each sheet to be cut down into 8″ planks, lengthwise (which meant there was no waste – exactly six planks from each sheet). I’ll admit that I did get a few funny looks, but for the most part everyone at Home Depot was incredibly nice and accommodating, given the huge ask. I was more than prepared to pay 10 or even 25 cents per cut, like one of the guys in the lumber department suggested they might charge me at the order desk. I think I paid for cuts when I did the wall planking project in our mudroom, but this time there was no charge for all those cuts! I’m pretty sure it was because I was really flexible on timing and let them take as long as they wanted to get the order finished. And even then, it was less than 24 hours before they called to tell me my planks were ready to be picked up.

Once we had all the carpet removed and all the wood planks upstairs to the back porch, it was time to start the only tedious part of this project: all the sanding. It was actually pretty easy work, but it just took some time (actually about a minute and a half or two per plank, which really adds up). I asked Heather to sand while I was installing the planks, and usually the timing worked out well and we were able to keep a good pace.

Read more at littlegreennotebook.com

Guides - Swedish Designers

Decor Mistakes All 20-Somethings Make

Can you see yourself in some of these?  Vogue pulls together 12 pieces of advice from design experts showing common mistakes young designers make.  See if you think they are correct:

“Horrible throw pillows. I don’t even know where people get some of these. The ones I see are often flat and limp and look like something I’d use as a dog bed.”
—Amanda Gorski, Gimme Shelter Designs

“Twenty-somethings don’t realize the power of framing artwork. Posters taped or pinned on the walls can look crazy unless you have that artistic eye.”
—Danielle Arps, Dani Arps

“Oftentimes, 20-somethings will either try too hard to be cool (with black pleather furniture, neon beer signs, and shag carpet) or just follow the trends. For example, the zigzag pattern is everywhere—on rugs, towels, and sheets. This design is what the younger generation gravitates toward because it’s what they see everywhere, but I prefer more classic patterns that will stand the test of time.”
—Ashley Darryl, interior designer

Read more at Vogue.com

Guides - Swedish Paint Finishes

Can I Stain Over Paint To Produce A Patina?

 

Adding stain over paint on furniture, or exterior wood surfaces such as siding or a deck can give furniture and any other project a new lease on life. Clear or semi-clear stains can provide a distressed appearance and add patina. They highlight those areas where the paint has worn away or where the paint color varies. Solid-color stains, on the other hand, generally coat well and provide a durable finish to a variety of projects. Consumers must sand, clean and dust surfaces before staining them. You want a good wood base from which to coat your stain, and you should set aside a few hours to get the job done.

Using Stain to Add Patina

Patina describes the look of something that appears aged, delivering a gloss or sheen. Interior decorators often use this term to describe distress, or the aged look of furniture, where paint has faded or colors have lost some of their brightness.  While a patina also can refer to metals such as bronze, it’s used in this case to refer to wood furniture. Staining is one option available to add patina to furniture that already has a coat of paint on top. A clear or lightly colored stain adds the best effect to most wood surfaces, and is a great option for those who don’t want a messy painting project.

Applying Clear Stain for Patina

Consumers who want to apply clear or lightly colored stain to add a distressed look or a patina must first prepare the surface of the project by using sandpaper to remove any debris and previous painting imperfections, then wiping the surface with a clean, dry cloth to remove any dust.

Decorators should coat the surface, applying the stain with a rag in small sections. It should dry completely; after a short amount of time, wipe it away with a clean rag. If the stain looks uneven, sand it down and apply another coat.

Read more about how you can work with stains at Ebay

Single French Louis XV Style Painted Beech Wood Fauteuil Armchair, 1920s- Ebay

Hand Painted French Writing Desk Drop Down Lid- Ebay

French Louis XVI Style Parcel Gilded White Painted Arm Chair Fauteuil circa 1940- Ebay

Vintage Doll Chippy Chair- Ebay

 

Guides - Swedish Designers

Q&A With Swedish Designers Edie Van Breems and Rhonda Eleish

Q: Clearly, you are scholars on Scandinavian style. For you, what is the essence of it?

A: Recognition of the importance of nature and the impact it has on interiors and overall lifestyles. Light, colors, and the functionality of daily living also play a huge role. In Sweden there is a wordbruskonst, which loosely translates to “useful art.” This respect for economy and intimacy with nature is an integral part of Scandinavia’s design psyche.

Q: Scandinavian antiques are usually made of humble materials, but painted to look like marbles, gilt, and fine woods. How do you make them work in modern spaces?

A: Antique pieces, by virtue of their patina and imperfections, add a depth and soulfulness to rooms that could otherwise be one-note and cold. A rough-hewn, rustic, painted farm table, for example, is going to look amazing with contemporary metal chairs or formal, tailored, upholstered dining chairs by sheer virtue of the contrast. An 18th-century Gustavian chandelier in a barn room or a rustic, painted farm chair in a severe, all-glass or marble contemporary bathroom becomes almost sculptural.

Read more at deringhall.com

Guides - Swedish Paint Finishes

Mary Taylor Smith’s Gray Washed Butler’s Desk

This vintage butlers desk has the perfect lines for a Swedish Gustavian styled home.  In the picture above you can see she updated the look by replacing the glass with a metal radiator cover.  These metal sheets can be purchased at your local Home Depot.  Purchase a Snip Cutter which is ideal for cutting through sheet metal.  The updated brushed bronze pulls work really nicely with darker paint finishes, or distressed finishes in rustic colors.  Read more of Mary Taylor’s thoughts below: 

Mary Taylor Smith  I wanted to go more for a Restoration Hardware type finish. It may not come through in the photographs, but it looks identical to some of their finished pieces. Since I wanted it to be used as an entertainment console, I need it to replace those mirrors with something that would allow components stored inside to be remotely controlled.

“I replaced the mirrors with the decorative metal grate that you can use on radiator covers. I wanted this piece to be used as an entertainment console. By adding the metal grates, you can use a remote with any components stored in there, think game systems, etc“

“I don’t know color names because they were oops paints that I made into chalk paint. Tan, gray, brown, and beige all brushed into each other in long streaks. After the paint was dry, I applied a brown glaze, then gray glaze. Finished with white wax. I’m sure other painters may have a simpler method, this is just what I like to do.”

  • Find more of Mary Taylor’s Furniture at The Refinery on Facebook

Look at the paint detail in the right hand corner picture. 

Here is absolutely stunning set of French bar stools that were given an updated look. 

DIY - Do It Yourself Swedish Home

How To Avoid Yellowed White Painted Furniture With General Finishes Products

Christine Adams

Wood Finishing Technical Writer at General Finishes

October 21, 2017

A TUTORIAL ON WATER BASED TOP COATS YELLOWING OVER BRIGHT WHITE PAINT

Many you may have noticed that the labels on our bright white paints, Snow White Milk Paint and Chalk White Chalk Style Paint now carry a warning label regarding the yellowing of topcoats. All bright white paint will yellow slightly with time, with or without topcoat. Water-based topcoat is reactive and more likely to draw out substances in the wood such as tannins or unknown substances in existing finishes causing the topcoat to yellow. This is an industry-wide issue. Don’t carry the cost of white paint yourself– pass the cost on to the consumer who wants it with a fair upcharge. White paints, even if they did not yellow, require more coats to achieve coverage.

Enduro White Poly

General Finishes background was originally on the professional side, and the incidences of yellowing topcoat over white paint were almost nil, and when our sprayable professional finish, Enduro White Poly, is used, there have been no incidences. But as the use of our paints has increased in the up-cycling and furniture refresh markets, we have heard more reports of our topcoat yellowing. Our response was to teach about prepping, testing you finish schedule and finally creating Stain Blocker, our stain blocking primer, but this is not enough. Just as we advocate prepping all finishes, we are now advocating NOT using a clear water base topcoat over BRIGHT WHITE paint.

General Finishes is in the process of developing a brushable version of our professional Enduro White Poly (available only in gallons), but that will take some time and rigorous testing before we can release the product. Here is what you should know to protect yourself and also some immediate suggestions to decrease chances of yellowing.

There is no way to reliably predict yellowing ahead of time. Sometimes yellowing occurs, sometimes it does not. Every existing finish is different and we rarely know the finishing provenance on an existing piece. Every tree is different and every piece of wood is unique. Wood can bleed tannins immediately after the topcoat dries or months later with a change in temperature that comes with a change in seasons. Oak, pine, mahogany, and Douglass Fur are particularly prone to bleed-through.

As is true of most “water-white” topcoats, our High Performance Water-Based topcoat is a clear drying finish over a non-reactive substrate such as plastic. When paint is used over something as unpredictable as wood, all bets are off. Yellowing can be caused by the top coat activating the tannins in raw wood or aniline dyes, stains or contaminants in a pre-existing finish. This is most evident when using BRIGHT WHITE paint and most prevalent in the sculpted details of furniture, where the topcoat can collect, intensifying the color change to an unacceptable level.

To add to this issue, all bright white paint will yellow slightly with time, with or without topcoat. You have probably tried to touch up white woodwork in your home after several and noticed that the new paint is brighter.

Summary:

• Whites have a lower “hide” quality and are more transparent than most other colors. Most bright whites require additional coats to achieve the desired color and minimize color variation. This can increase cost of paint finishing. Always include a clause in your contracts addressing the need for additional coats to achieve coverage.

• Bright white paints can yellow over time with or without topcoat.

• The underlying finish or wood species can affect the final color of light paint.

• Details and inside corners are difficult to cover with any paint color, but this property tends to be more noticeable with whites. This is a naturally occurring phenomenon in paint application and does not necessarily constitute a defect in the paint finish or your technique.

TIPS FOR PROTECTING YOURSELF AND PREVENTING YELLOWING

1. Use a disclaimer in your contracts or recommend a softer white such as Antique White or Linen. Upcharge for the extra coats needed and ever guarantee a white finish over a piece that you cannot trace the provenance on. Here is a suggestion: Terms of Agreement and Warranties: ________ (Initials) I have been informed that more coats are required when painting with bright whites, reds, greens or yellow. I understand that white paint can yellow over time and that water based topcoats can occasionally react with the substrate or existing finish under white paints causing yellowing, even is a stain blocking primer is used.

2. If it is a low use project, use a premium white paint that is self-sealing and does not require a topcoat. A clear top coat is not required on our Milk Paint for increased durability, as it is a self-sealing, exterior rated coating with very high durability and performance properties. However, top coats provide a smoother surface that is easier to clean and boost durability for high use projects such as table tops and kitchen cabinets.

3. Get a spray gun and use a professional “white coat” such as our Enduro White Poly. It is a white paint with “increased topcoat properties”, is a stand-alone finish when 3 coats are applied and does not require sealing with a topcoat.

4. If you are still brushing, try adding 10-15% of the paint you are using to the first or second application of topcoat. The last layer of topcoat should not have paint in it, to maintain durability. We have had good reports of this technique from customers but have not tested in the lab over a long period of time.

5. Always test your project’s entire finishing schedule (from cleaning to topcoat) on an inside door or a more hidden area of the piece. This does not help if the yellowing occurs later but you will at least know if there is an immediate problem.

6. Always apply a stain blocking primer under white or light-colored paint such GF Stain Blocker or a shellac based primer. Always let any primer dry overnight. Some of the primers we have seen suggest a 3 hour dry time and that is not enough.

7. If you are working on period pieces such as a 1940’s serpentine mahogany desk which were often finished in stain containing aniline dyes that cast a pinkish bleed through under light paint, stay away from light colors. Not every piece of furniture is suitable for up-cycling with a light paint color. Pine, Mahogany, and furniture of the 1940’s and 50’s are a red flag.

8. Last, not all manufacturer’s topcoats are compatible with other finishes and may react with a color change. Always follow best practices by not rushing, and testing to your satisfaction first.

Hope this helps and wish us luck on our next paint endeavor- Chris


Guides - Swedish Designers

Colleen Martin, Founder of Swede Collection Tells Us Her Journey Of How She Began Reproducing Gustavian Furniture

Swedish design in American interiors is at an all-time high. Chosen for its qualities not as a fad or trend. White and light interiors are loved by so many. Today I am talking to Colleen Martin, Founder of Swede Collection, in the hand-crafted segment of the furniture industry, who is living her life passion reproducing Swedish furniture, particularly from the Gustavian and Rococo periods. Colleen was making console tables when the need for new dining chairs for her home arose. When she couldn’t purchase what she wanted nor find anyone to make them for her, necessity being the mother of invention, she decided to make them for her line. Swede Collection is shown at High Point market in April and October. The line can be seen at www.swedefurniture.com.

Q: How did you get smitten and bitten by Swedish style?

Gustavian is my favorite style as it makes my heart sing. To me it is eloquent, romantic and refined with a simplistic beauty. I do like a few Rococo pieces as well. What I love is that Swedish pieces have never gone out of style 200 years and counting. They are lasting, enduring and inheritable due to their design. Because they are not overly embellished, you don’t get tired of the look.

I first decorated my homes in French antiques due to access as that was what was available in antique stores where I lived and as far as I could travel to antique shows. Keep in mind this was pre-Internet years so purchasing access was limited to as far as you could travel. Even though I lived in larger cities, Swedish antiques or reproductions were not available. I loved the straight legs of Louis XVI. I have always been a huge shelter magazine reader so that is where I first saw Swedish pieces and then realized Swedish was where my true love was which was similar to French Louis XVI. When the Internet made access easier, my passion for Swedish design intensified. One could see and purchase Swedish pieces in the US and Sweden easily.

Q: Why do you think people fall in love with the Swedish look?

The colors of white, pale blue/grey and pale aqua are very soothing to the soul. I find people who love Swedish style are deeply devoted to it. Perhaps it is the peaceful feeling people experience in light toned rooms where the furniture is not stark but not overdone either. Swedish pieces have great balance and detail. With the painted frames people get a departure from the brown tones of wood. Today, décor is all about the mix. What is so fabulous about Swedish design is that it fits smoothly in any décor and very surprisingly with contemporary.

Gustavian Spindle-Back Dining Chair, SC0019

Q: Why did you decide to reproduce Swedish pieces?

My mission was to make excellent quality hand-crafted and hand-carved Swedish furniture more accessible for everyone to enjoy in their homes. I traveled to Sweden and purchased antiques which I reproduce both in Gustavian and Rococo style. This is my passion. I wanted to bring back the hand-crafted pieces originally made in the workrooms in Stockholm by the masters. Swede produces unique pieces for interior designers but also has some pieces available to the public in the retail section. We are continuing to add to the website retail section smaller pieces that can be shipped via ground. Access to Swedish design is an important part of our mission.

Some of the master furniture makers that I admire are:

  • Erik Ohrmark 1747-1813 who made chairs for Haga castle for Gustav III.
  • Carl Fredrik Flodin 1754-1795
  • Olof Roslin 1753
  • Ephraim Stahl 1767-1820
  • Johan Erik Hoglander 1780
  • Petter Thunberg
  • Johan Hammarstorm 1780
  • Erik Holm 1774-1814

Although you read that Gustavian style furniture is credited to king Gustav living at Versailles, loving the French style but having the details relaxed for Swedish pieces in his homeland, I differ from that viewpoint by giving credit not to the king who was not a furniture designer, but credit to the master craftsmen and their apprentices working in their shops all over Sweden. The king may have commissioned their work for the royal properties but I believe the design was the masters’ who presented it to the king for his approval on the commission. I really don’t believe King Gustav came up with all these fabulous designs by himself. Pehr Ljung was a known master carver at the time who was called upon for difficult carvings. There were furniture “architects” and architects who did both buildings and the furniture within. Stockholm was a furniture center with many famous workrooms but these fabulous original designs were not exclusively created in Stockholm. Some masters specialized in making mirrors or clocks. I love researching these makers and am searching for information on women designers.

Q: In your decision to reproduce Swedish antiques, do you make exact copies?

I like to honor the original creator that inspires me but I do change the scale and some details so it is not an exact copy. People were much smaller in body size at that time and particularly their chairs are too small for today’s people to sit in comfortably especially larger men. I didn’t want my husband or a buyer to “perch” on the chair, I wanted him to comfortably sit in it. Comfort is king in what I do. There is no point in making something nobody can sit in. I also produce in Maple, Ash and Cherry not Swedish Pine. I do believe these masters would be proud and thrilled to see that their designs are loved 200 years later by my bringing them back to life for today’s homes. For the most part, I own the original of what I reproduce. There are a few items in my line that my talented crew was able to duplicate just from a photo of the antique.

Q: Can you find these signed original works for sale today?

Yes, in Sweden, England and the United States and it makes my heart pound to find initials carved into the frame. There is also a mark on furniture made for the royal properties. When you see the carved initials IL for example, remember an “I” is a “J” so this could be made by Johan Lindgren. Pieces reproduced 100 years ago of the originals created 200 years ago are fairly available to purchase today.

Although pieces can be found, price is another issue. A chair can run from $4,000 to 7,000. And, you may not be able to sit on it. That is the other reason I decided to reproduce these chairs – to make them affordable. Hand crafted chairs should be inheritable for generations to come and should last another 200 years just like their ancestors.

I made the finishes on Swede Collection pieces blend seamlessly with antique finishes. Unless you have an expert eye, you probably couldn’t tell the difference. Making the new pieces allows me to fill in the blanks smoothly where unattainable pieces can’t be acquired.

Q: Can you give us an example of what reproductions Swede Collection makes?

I fell in love with this chair at Sabylund Manor. Bukowski’s auction house in Stockholm sold a set of these as well. I believe they look identical to ones made by Johan Hammarstrom which my talented team copied.

Above, these Rococo chairs have the original on the left and our newly copied one on the right. 

Everyone on Pinterest will recognize this desk in a home in The Netherlands on the left and Swede Collection’s version on the right.

We also went to Jacquemart-Andre museum in Paris and photoed the Nattier portrait which we made into a poster in a larger size.

Here is another example.  Antique sofa on right with Swede Collection sofa on left

On the left are demilune tables brought back from Sweden on my 2014 trip and on the right the new Swede Collection one

These Rococo chairs:

Q:  What new pieces are you working on?

We made some hand-carved boiserie panels that buyers at market kept asking to be made into sliding doors. For April 2018 High Point market, we are introducing four sliding “barn doors”. What is different about ours is that they are elegant with hand carving on solid wood or antiqued mirror glass inserts in beautiful soft colors.  You would never find them on a barn. They are great used between a master bath and bedroom instead of a traditional door. They are beautiful separators of any spaces within the home.  And, we are always making more chairs and benches.  We are also working on a massive tall candlestick like ones found in European cathedrals. There is a never-ending list of items to make.  I am having the thrill of my lifetime making these pieces. 

Visit Swedefurniture.com

Visit the 2017 Catalogue Here

 

 

Guides - Swedish Designers

Expect To See More Warm Grays, Blues And Creams In Gustavian Decorating

Wood Finishing Technical Writer at General Finishes

January 6 ·

2018 is here and it is BOLD. Designers and Brands predict that this year is going to be more vibrant than years before. Below are a few insights into the 2018 home design trends to help you get inspired.

Before we start, remember that CLASSICS ARE ALWAYS IN. Although it’s fun to have that end table glowing in bright red, whites and blacks are the safest colors as these would work for any customer’s home. GF’s top sellers are White, Black and Gray – check some out here in our design Center: http://bit.ly/GFDesignCenter

2018 IS RICH WITH COLOR. This year, it looks like a vivid start as Pantone named “Ultra Violet” its Color of the Year, while Sherwin Williams selected the striking Oceanside SW 6496. Other colors that appear to be trending are colors such as violet, wine, amethyst and even soft lavenders. You can find some bold colors in GF’s Color Lab here: http://bit.ly/GFColorMixingLab

HEAVY CABINETRY AND STATEMENT STORAGE. The white cabinet trend has faded and Country Living expects to see more warm grays, blues, creams as well as wood grain tones to take purchase in kitchens in 2018. As for storage, Anthropologie’s customer styling director Christina Frederick says “gone are the days of sacrificing style for function… There seems to be a desire for high-end organization in our personal space, a desire for things – and life – to feel pulled together.”

BRASS IS BACK BABY. Whether it be an accent or the drawer pulls on a buffet, this aged finish is making its way back into our homes.

NATURAL ACCENTS. Natural wood, earthy materials and even color iterations of stone are being implemented into designs. Ryan Turf, managing director of CB2 says, “These beautiful, natural materials add texture and depth to any design. Timeless yet very modern and fresh.” Include wood stains in your furniture designs to meet this trend. All GF stains can be compared here: http://bit.ly/CompareAllGFWoodStains

WABI-SABI. Wabi-sabi is the Japanese art of finding beauty in imperfection. For furniture refinishing this means handmade or hand-painted items that retain a deeply personal, organic aesthetic.

GRAY IS THE NEW BLACK. According to Linda Holt, it looks like the cool blue-grays have been replaced with warmer tones of gray, taupe and neutral colors such as brown. REMEMBER: don’t overuse too much neutral or your furniture or it may become so neutral you’ll miss it! Check out GF’s grays at http://bit.ly/GFDesignCenterGrays

To read more about 2018 predictions, please go to the following links:

Architectural Digest: Sherwin-Williams Reveals its 2018 Color of the Year – https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/sherwin-williams-2018-color-of-the-year-oceanside

Country Living: 10 Trends That Are Taking Over Homes in 2018 – http://www.countryliving.com/home-design/decorating-ideas/g5056/home-trends-for-2018/

Country Living: Pantone Color of the Year 2018 – http://www.countryliving.com/life/a46050/pantone-color-of-the-year-2018/

Linda Holt: 2018 Color Trends You Want to See Now: https://www.lindaholtcreative.com/2017/05/2018-color-trends-you-want-to-see-now/

Maria Killam: Colour Trends You Need to Know Right Now for 2018: http://www.mariakillam.com/trends-2018/

 

DIY - Do It Yourself Swedish Home

8 Brands Of Gold Spray Paint Were Compared To Find The Best Color

Let’s find the best can of gold spray paint

I bought a bunch of mini terracotta pots to use as the test vehicle and used my amazing Homeright spray shelter to spray each of the pots. I put the pots on a little piece of scrap wood so I could simply pick up the wood and move it out to dry while I painted the next pot.

This is the first time I have used Design Master’s and I have to say I was very impressed especially with the uniform coat and drying time. Design master’s and Rustoleum Metallic are pretty much identical in their “color”. I think they are the closest match to being “gold”. The Krylon Premium metallic which is on top has a very yellow almost artificial shine.

View more of her study at anikasdiylife.com

Guides - Nordic Decorating

Essential Characteristics Of 18th Century Swedish Interiors

Guest Post by Jason Phillips

The 18th century Swedish interior was a manifestation of neo-classism across Europe. It was made prominent by King Gustav III who introduced different styles of interiors in Sweden when he returned home from his visit to France. In 1771, King Gustav III traveled to France and was impressed with the nature of interiors that he decided to introduce the same back home. At this point in time, the effects of neo-classism had spread to Sweden but its adoption was still low. But with King Gustav’s travel to France, the adoption of foreign mannerisms began to grow. It started with the well-off members of the society but it soon spread across town to the rural areas. Key components of French interiors such as open spaces with natural light became common in Sweden. Living areas that are calm, elegant and airy became the norm. Pale greens, blues, and grays became the preferred decorating colors of the Swedish interiors. Cream, pink and white were other the colors that were used to decorate Swedish homes. Some homes would still spot deeper accents with colors such as ochre, red and gold used for the interiors. There was also the use of rich woods to style the interiors. The woods were used to make furniture, to accent the walls and to make the floor.

The main characteristics of 18th century Swedish interiors.

Here are some of the characteristics of 18th century interiors.

  • Simplicity and Comfort.

Designers and homeowners strived to keep their homes as simple as possible. They would also strive to keep their homes comfortable for themselves and their guests. Most homes in Sweden at this time featured open spaces so as to let in as much natural light as possible. This feature was witnessed across the board with the rich in townhouses insisting on open designs just as the locals in country farm houses. The furniture in most homes was designed with in a simple manner so as to keep them as comfortable as possible. They would be decorated with straight line decorations and the ends arched for an appealing look. The sofas had straightened backs and featured lots of cushioning for added comfort. Blankets would be added for warmth and comfort.

  • Unique decorations.

The Swedes in the 18th century would use antique items to decorate their homes. Antiques and collectibles would be located strategically in the homes for decoration. They enhanced the ambiance within the homes and made them appealing. Some of the antiques that were used in most homes included tilled and cast-iron stoves that positioned strategically in the living area.

  • Natural decorations.

The Swedes would also decorate their homes using natural elements of nature such as fresh flowers, plants, pebbles and sea shells. Those that required care and attention to thrive such as flowers and plants were watered and trimmed so as to keep them fresh. They were positioned close to the windows so as to ensure that they received enough light for prosperity. Natural materials would also be used to make hand-woven decorations. Some of these materials included wood, glass and natural textile elements.

  • Surface decoration.

The 18th century Swedish interior also featured surface decorations. The walls in most homes were decorated using floral patterns, checks, and stripes so as to make them much more appealing. Plain and textured fabrics were also used to line walls in some Swedish homes. Another aspect of Swedish interior was decorating the surface of furniture items such as sofas and chairs with stencil decoration, wreaths, and heart motifs.

  • Proper lighting.

Sweden is very cold during winter and in an effort to bring in as much natural light as possible, homes would be built with large windows. The windows were lined with roman blinds and fine curtains so as not to obstruct the flow of light. Winters in Sweden are characterized by reduced sun hours and to keep houses well lit, candles and stoves and even chandeliers were common in most homes. Fireplaces were also common just as were table lamps. The fireplaces would also double up as sources of warmth within the household.

Swedish interiors of the 18th century were rich in style and they made the homes beautiful and interesting.

Philip Gorrivan – House Beautiful

D Larsson Interior

Exquisite pair of antique, Swedish late Gustavian giltwood mirrors. Lovely oval giltwood carved frames with carved oak leaves and cartouche atop each mirror.–Scandinavian Antiques & Living

Antique Swedish Clocks From The Lone Ranger Antiques

Antique Swedish Gustavian Style White Painted Oval Mirror, Mid-19th Century – Scandinavian Antiques & Living

FullBloomCottage

Set of 6 Antique french creamware ironstone plates –Chanteduc

Nina Hartmann

ninahartmannantiques

D.Larsson Interiör & Antikhandel

40 Thanksgiving Table Settings to Wow Your Guests – Martha Stewart

Natural Wood Table From Kathy Kuo

Old Clawfoot Tub – source: viendoraglass.com

antonandk.co.uk

Pair of Small 19th Century Gustavian Influenced Commodes, Debenham Antiques

Marston & Langinger Paint

Antique Swedish Clocks From The Lone Ranger Antiques

Photographed by Catherine Lee Davis, Photographed by Jennifer Causey

Designer Wallpaper Collections | Thibaut

Habitually Chic® » Grey Day

The Paper Mulberry

when to say when | the paris apartment

Simple Structure Dog Houses – Trend Hunter

Gustavian Dining Table in Oak Driftwood | Kathy Kuo Home

Attributed to Jean Marc Nattier

 

 

 

 

Guides - Nordic Decorating

Gustavian Style By Kristie Barnett

I don’t know what kind of leader King Gustav III of Sweden was, but he really had some design sense!  After spending much of his early life in the French courts of Versailles, Gustav developed a style that was heavily influenced by French Neo-Classical design, as well as Italian Classicism.  Gustavian style is one of my all-time favorites, and I have a heavy dose of it in my own home. 

Gustavian style is marked by grayed pastels, lots of whites and creams, painted furniture, clean simple lines, and fabulous lighting.

This style is rather austere and not overly ornamented.  Lots of leggy furniture, bleached wood, and reflective surfaces/mirrors.

Swedish Country style is Gustavian, but at it’s most informal.  Lots of whites and lots of rustic.

The more formal version of Gustavian features a bit more color, lots of reflective surfaces, and crystal chandeliers.  And gilt, like I blogged about here.

Read more of this article at thedecorologist.com

Guides - Nordic Decorating

Gustavian Romance By Melissa Goldstein

A Swedish twist on French neoclassicism, Gustavian décor may date back to the 18th century, but its suddenly popping up everywhere–like Selena Gomez. Some tell-tale signs your favorite space is aligned to this trend? A pale-on-pale color scheme, intricately carved wood furnishings, and incredibly flattering date night lighting. If the aforementioned design tenets are (Nordic) music to your ears, follow our tips below to get the look. 01 Think soft focus with your color scheme: powdery whites and blues are the order of the day.

gustavian-market-01 gustavian-market-02 gustavian-market-03
Gustavian Gray Dining Table, $1574, Kathy Kuo Home Uttermost Portici Rectangular Mirror, $383, Arcadian Home Patric Chest, $2740, Bliss Home & Design

  02 Painted wood pieces finished with thoughtful but not overly ornate carved detail are a must.

gustavian-market-04 gustavian-market-06 gustavian-market-05
Gustavian Tall Clock, $4500, 1st Dibs Zentique Louis Settee, $1582, Amazon Provence Dining Chair, $489, Kathy Kuo Home

03

This aesthetic traditionally depends on subtlety and a more low-key approach to luxury, so seek out textiles in warm neutrals with nuanced texture: ivory linens accomplish all of the above.

gustavian-market-07 gustavian-market-08 gustavian-market-09
Bangalore Paisley Navy, $112, Arianna Belle Duvet Cover Basic Queen, $545, Calypso Simply Shabby Chic Patchwork Bolster Pillow, $35, Target

04 Ask yourself: Would this work in Phantom of the Opera? If the answer is yes, then that candelabra or crystal chandelier you’ve got your eye on is very likely the statement moment you’re looking for.

gustavian-market-11 gustavian-market-12 gustavian-market-10
Four Arm Candelabra, $625, Garde Aidan Gray Denbigh Castle Chandelier, $2250, Candelabra Candelabra Sconce, $140, Wisteria

05 Yes we know, we just got finished telling you that this trend is all about light hues, but if you want to add a modern spin, introduce a dark accent to create dimensionality.

gustavian-market-14 gustavian-market-13 gustavian-market-15
Handcarved Gustavian Desk, $798, Anthropologie Capital Pillow, $36, Zara Home Crown F Tortoise, Price Upon Request, Canopy Design Ltd.

Photographs: Looks Like White, The Paper Mulberry, Paintura Home, Remodelista, Chalk Farm

Read more at mydomaine.com

DIY - Do It Yourself Swedish Home

7 Places To Find Swedish Design For Toddlers

Children are gifts that need to be pampered every time. When you are expectant and planning to prepare your nursery, there are things that you always want. You keep looking for concrete furniture for children, you want a particular design, or mainly you are looking for décor that will meet your satisfaction. If your taste is the modern Nordic style, then the feeling gets more complicated. Scandinavian style has the best décor for a child’s bedroom, and it has its unique simplicity. However, the big question is where I get specific things for my kid’s bedroom. Take a look at some of the top shops around with furniture toys and interior accessories for children.

  1.    Nubie

Nubie is among the best shops in the UK for children’s interior. The shop has a great selection of the Scandinavian design and brands. If you want to decorate your child’s room with wardrobes and beds from the Oliver furniture Danish brands, this is the place to shop. It’s your one stop shop that has a wide selection for the entire family too. There are lots of toys for the nursery decoration, plenty of eating room accessories and of course the sleeping area. Once you are here, you don’t need to go somewhere else.

Picture Credit –Flickriver

  1. 2.    Lullabuy

Nursery room has so much than any other room. Therefore, while decorating the room, you must ensure you find the best items from a trusted brand. At Lullabuy, this should not be your fear. They stock the best accessories and decoration kits for the kid’s room. They have shared the best Danish brands to solve your numerous storage problems for your child. The shop has the best wallpapers, beddings, decorative wall display, Lamps, and cushions.

  1.    Molly-Meg

Unlike all the other stores, Molly-Meg is specifically designed for children selection. The shop is stocked with home decorations, toys, and edited selection of furniture and course gifts for the new family member. However, the designs for most of the items here are not Scandinavian but have the same functional, simple and modern design aesthetics, which is a traditional model for the Nordic decorations.

  1. 4.    Skandium

Although the shop only stocks a few selections for children furniture, it has the best and durable items. Rather than preparing the nursery for sleeping purposes only, here, you will have a selection of junior size design chairs to keep your child active with a matching tableware and lots of gifts for the child. Skandium provides you an assurance that your Nordic style of a modern home is complemented with some of the best brands.

  1. 5.    Kidsen

Kidsen is the place with all the small room decorations design furniture and toys. Here you will shop for everything made of the top Scandinavian brands. Mini, Rodini, ferm living, Brio, Isak, and many more. At Kidsen, you will find everything stocked just for you from toys, furniture, clothes and all other necessities for nursery decoration.

  1.    Lo and Behold store

Your child’s room needs to be colorful, decorative and attractive for the child to find quick rest and fun. At Lo and Behold Store, there is all this in place just for you. Talk of cool posters, beautiful bedding from Ferm living and Danish brands, furniture and all other accessories for interior design.  The shop ensures you get all you need to keep your child healthy active and physically fit.

  1.    Mood

Want to nurture your child’s in a design atmosphere, the mood is the right place to shop. Here there is an appreciation of the direct role of design in your toddler’s development. The store is carefully curated with all the latest and high-end brands from trusted designers to ensure you get the best items. It’s the only store you will find Leander in stock. It’s all about interior décor for the child and a modern family. Mood guarantees you perfection in every item you buy.

  1.    Smallable

Looking for Convertible toddler beds, shelves, cots, wardrobes, baby essentials chairs, furniture and baby desks, smallable has it all. The shop gives you a full selection of baby valuables for perfect decoration including night lighting, poster, lamps, rugs, garlands, mobiles, and bedding. The shop is divided into sections to ensure you shop faster. The beddings have designer fabrics prints for longevity and quality. This is the only shop with specified design to meet your toddler needs and save you cost and the hustle of moving from shop to shop.

Conclusion

With such shops in your mind, it’s therefore easy for you to decorate the nursery for your toddler and it the best crib. Additionally, you can make the best selections to ensure that the room is still right for your child when s/he turns teen.

Guides - Nordic Decorating

Study Shows The Gustavian Period Has Defined All Tastes Through Time In Sweden

A New Dissertation From Uppsala University Shows How Gustavian Style Has Defined Swedish Tastes In Art

Why has the neoclassical Gustavian style become so prominent in the Swedish self-image? A new dissertation from Uppsala University shows how researchers in art history, along with museums, commercial enterprises and the monarchy, have contributed to preserving and conveying the Gustavian style.

“An important reason for the extreme strength of the Gustavian style ideal,” says Hedvig Mårdh, doctoral student at the Department of Art History at Uppsala University, “is that it managed to unite a series of seemingly contradictory movements during the 1900s, such as tradition and modernity, and nationalism and internationalism, and that it has become part of various utopian visions.”

The Gustavian style, connected to the 18th century and Gustav III and Gustav IV Adolf, has been intimately associated with what has been designated as specific Swedish cultural heritage, linked to Swedish tastes and interior design. The style has generally been highly esteemed by both museums and art historians, who have produced national and international exhibitions and publications and have also contributed to successful furniture production from the late 19th century through today, including both IKEA’s line of 18th-century furniture as well as more small-scale production.

It’s about recurring re-use, in the form of copies, reconstructions and staging of the period. In her dissertation A Century of Swedish Gustavian Style: Art History, Cultural Heritage and Neoclassical Revivals from the 1890s to the 1990s, Hedvig Mårdh studied three periods that all illustrate the re-use of the Gustavian period in different ways: the 1890s, which saw the emergence of art history as a discipline, and of museums and cultural heritagethe period 1930-1940, when the production of period furniture existed concurrently with functionalismthe 1990s, a decade characterised by a cultural heritage boom, economic crisis and the search for a national identity in a European context.

Read more at eurekalert.org

Gustavian style, 20th century Wall Clock, Bukowskis

A gustavian wall sconce from around 1800, Bukowskis

A Swedish gustavian style 5 pcs dining furniture, Bukowskis

Ten Swedish Gustavian chairs, early 19th century, Bukowskis

All these images are found are bukowskis.com

 

All these images are found are bukowskis.com

DIY - Do It Yourself Swedish Home

375 Hours Of Machine Embroidery- One Woman Successfully Pulls Off Her First 18th Century Men’s Outfit

This post was featured in the 18th Century Sewing Group
Christine Yoo Millar with Matthew Millar.

After 375 hours of machine embroidery, 60 hours of hand sewing, my husband’s outfit for Versailles is finally done! I’m very proud of this outfit as I don’t think I’ve worked so long on one outfit before, and this is my first 18th century mens outfit.

Giant shoutout to the incredibly talented Carol Barg from Cabbit Corner Embroidery for digitizing the original Smithsonian embroidery sample from 1780 into a usable PES file for my Brother VE2200. This was done entirely in silk thread (Tire brand #50) on silk duchesse. Other than the embroidery, coat was sewn entirely by hand, machine used for the pants only. The pattern was modified from JP Ryan’s coat, waistcoat and pants pattern. Silk stockings from Jas Townsend and Son, and the shoes from Fugawee.

DIY - Do It Yourself Swedish Home

Mix Old and New Like the Scandinavians Do- Chloe Taylor

Picture Credit Quality Is Key On Ebay

 

Image 1 source: www.swedishinteriordesign.co.uk, blog.thehighboy.com,

Guest Post -Chloe Taylor

Scandinavian interior design has been on the very top when it comes to décor trends for years now, but this style, as we know it, is reflected in modern furniture, clean lines, functionality and minimalism; all of which are features ideal for a bedroom.

Has this design style always been like this?

Of course not.

Although it has always been characterized with light colors and natural elements, it hasn’t always been so clean-lined and minimalistic. The old Nordic pieces are equally as appealing as the new ones, and it would be a shame not to get the best of both worlds and times when decorating with this approach. Here are some things that will help you combine something old and something new, the Scandinavian way.

Know both styles

Image 2 source: Anthony Kalambet

To be able to truly know how to fit in two different design epochs, you need to be familiarized with both of them. Modern Scandinavian design is represented by light colors (usually white and grey), use of pale wood, clean lines, functional pieces and metallic accents.

Image 3 source: countryliving.com

As for the old style, its most prominent representative is Gustavian style, influenced by Neoclassical style, and it is characterized by white-washed or grey furniture, and pastel and golden accents.

Choose one dominant

You can’t just put bell-shaped matte black pendant lamps above each side of the bed, and then install a Gustavian-style crystal chandelier in the center of the room.

Image 4 source: blog.thehighboy.com

You must choose a style you consider to be dominant (old or new), and complement it with accents from the other one. For example, if the bed, nightstands and the dresser are of clean lines made of pale unpainted wood, you can score some oldie but goodie points with a crystal chandelier.

Pair them up

If you want to make sure that the piece you’ve included isn’t standing out too much you can always use two pieces and group them together or put them opposite to each other. Also, some more subtle pieces can be joined with an entirely different style.

The bed as the place where all comes together

Image 5 source: scandis.com

Bed is the focal point of every bedroom, and as such, it will draw all eyes, which means that it should be greeted with both styles in an appropriate measure. If you decide on an antique bed, you might have some problems with finding the right mattress, but the offer of various mattresses online is so extensive that you’re bound to find the perfect one. Make a style contrast on an antique bed with zig-zag patterned throw pillows, and other modern details.

Focus on a single color palette

Image 6 source: lushome.com

Whenever you want to fit in different styles into a single room, you should focus on what they have in common and which colors can be associated with them. Fortunately, regardless of the epoch, Scandinavian style is all about light neutrals, enriched with just a bit of pastels, and metallic shades. Matte black is the modern addition that goes well with everything. Choosing the same tonal family for the walls and the furniture will produce a soothing effect and make various different style statements whisper instead of scream.

Catch the eye with a statement object

Image 7 source: scaramangashop.co.uk

So, what can be a statement object in a bedroom? Well, everything, ranging from an area rug to the bed. You’ll want it to be instantly identifiable with one of the two styles you are mixing. Choose a gigantic crystal chandelier, a big white-washed dresser, a cowhide rug, a salvaged-planks headboard, metallic nightstand lamp, etc.

Image 8 source: scaramangashop.co.uk

Make sure you go full-Scandi and introduce at least one houseplant in your bedroom. Kill two birds with one stone, and choose plants that will help you sleep better such as Parlor palm, Snake plant, Moth orchid, Pothos and Cast-iron plant.

Mixing old and new design styles can be really difficult. In this case you have the mitigating factor of both styles being part of one unique design evolution, so they can be connected on some basic levels, such as color palette. If you find the harmony between the two, you will have the perfectly decorated bedroom that would put some of the most famous interior designers to shame.

DIY - Do It Yourself Swedish Home

How To Make Your Own 18th Century Trumeau Mirror


If you are looking for an inexpensive way to dress up your walls, this might be it. I happen to adore the 18th century style, but don’t want to spend a ton of money to achieve the look in my home.

Decorative carved plaques were quite popular in France, and eventually Sweden perfected the look. Musical instruments, hunting motifs, and florals seemed to be the most popular carved designs in the 17th and 18th centuries. These wood carved decorative elements were often seen framed within wooden decorative trim and commonly found above doorways, or fireplaces.

Today you can see these beautiful plaques on pieces of wood in some of the most beautiful interiors decorated after the European styles of the past.

I have created a few of these plaques for my house and I really love how they have turned out. They give me the look of a large piece of art, without having to complicate my interior with lots of colors. Best of all, this project is fairly simple to create.

Vintage Syroco

Rococo is a design most popular in the 1730s. The design heavily influenced architecture, painting, sculpture and eventually furniture and decor.

Mirrors made after these styles became popular in the 50’s by a company called Syracuse Ornamental Company who at the time produced ornamental carvings to embellish furniture. The company was founded in the late 1890’s by Adolph Holstein who was a talented Austrian woodcarver.

The opportunity for his business to expand when Holstein developed a casting technique which produced a high quality product without the laborious intensity and time of wood carving. Holstein used Syroco to create perfect replicas of their original carvings.

Many of their molds featured a wood grain within the mold, giving their overall product a higher end feel for less money. As the modern movement hit in the 1940’s their business turned from ornamental embellishments to novelty items which didn’t profit as well, so the company returned to making the highly ornate wall mirrors, sconces, and decorations in the 1950’s which became a huge sensation.

These very same items from the 50’s can be found on ebay, and made to look high end with layers of paint in shades of gray, white and beige paint for a higher end European look.

 
The Materials Used For My Project

The materials you need are plywood, decorative trim, a decorative element that you want to frame, a miter box and a compressor with a nailing attachment certainly helps.

The pieces that I have purchased for my creations are Dogwall plaques from syroco, and two large vintage burwood musical plaques.

I tend to make my projects as simple as possible. For this project I simply cut a piece of plywood, and made my own miter box to hand cut the decorative edging that was placed around the edges of the wood.

The decorative edging I used was from Home Depot. You can find a picture with the number of the product below. The edging was simple, and easy to work with.

I made my miter box by simply screwing a piece of 2 x 4 wood together with two wood sides. I then took my miter saw, and cut the wood to give me a guide. It was as simple as that. I found that using my saw was not only dangerous with thin wood edging, but also that the wood would be torn apart with using the fast blade. My advice, buy a miter box or make your own like I did.

Next, I used a compressor with a nailing attachment to add the trim and the decorative element. I used wood filler to fill these holes, along with adding wood putty to the sides of the plywood to give it a finished appearance.

In a previous article, I described using Durhams putty to seal the edges between the wood and the decorative relief. You can find more pictures of this project in this post there. The beauty of Durhams putty is that it dries in a shade of light yellow. When you paint your object, what I do is wash off parts of the motif with a damp cloth, and the putty appears to look like wood painted. Working with this product is a perfect way of faking this whole look.

I love this look and these plaques happen to be my favorite pieces in my house. What do you think? Do you love it?

More Inspiration:

  • A plaque made by Bliss Studio- here
  • Plaster medallions of Carl Michael Bellman & Ulla Hopken – here
  • Swedish Plaster Medallions- here
  • Wood Wall Plaques- here

 

How I Created My Own DIY 18th Century Architectural Plaques- Hersite Blog

Burwood musical plaques before they were painted

How I Created My Own DIY 18th Century Architectural Plaques- Hersite Blog

The molding I used from Home Depot

Continue Reading…

DIY - Do It Yourself Swedish Home

Swedish Furniture Design – What Makes The 1800’s So Obsessive

Pair of Late Gustavian Neoclassical Chairs

Pair of Late Gustavian / Neoclassical Chairs

Jason Phillips

The Scandinavians are known around the world for creating simple, stylish and functional furniture; its style reflects its origins, furniture and décor which maximized the available light and space. The look is minimal, yet honest with an earthy flavor. It is the perfect style to use when you are looking to revitalize an old, gloomy house and create a contemporary yet practical flare. To really get the 1800s Swedish feel in your home you will need to follow these tips:

Wooden Flooring

The flooring should be light and preferably wood, although a laminate will have the same effect. This allows the sunlight entering the house to bounce around the room and help to create a feeling of space, warmth and light. The bathroom is the only exception to this rule as a darker, warmer color will make the room feel more inviting.

Color Palettes Of Brown And Grey

The original Scandinavian design would be for white walls and a pale grey or light blue; either as a feature wall or as part of the design; the color of the furniture or the accessories. However, there have been several other influences in the Scandinavian scene and it is possible to introduce some bright colors through the accessories or even the flowers in the room. These will draw the eye and make the room feel friendly and inviting. It is also possible to opt for wood on one of the walls; it is a natural material and adds a layer of warmth to the property. If the wood is too yellow for your taste than it can be white washed or you can use grey oil to dilute the color.

Furniture Lines

The handmade designer furniture you use in your Scandinavian room must have clean lines. The majority of Swedish furniture elements will already have the lines you require. This simplistic approach will provide a calm, tranquil room in which to relax.

Functional Furniture

The Swedish pride themselves on providing stylish yet functional furniture. Every piece has a specific purpose and it is well designed for that purpose. This ethic should apply across the entire house; it avoids unnecessary clutter and encourages the simple, minimalistic style. Furniture may have been designed recently or may be genuine antique pieces. Either will work as the elements of design have stayed true throughout time; every Swedish piece has a classic beauty in its simplicity and will sit perfectly in a room today. The way this furniture has been designed allows it to blend with any room, creating a stylish, yet practical living area.

Corner Fire

Swedish winters are generally much colder than those in many other parts of the world. A fire is an essential part of surviving these winters. However, they are not the feature point of the room; they are seen as another piece of furniture. Swedish fires are often tiled and sit in the corner of the room. They are usually very simple in design and may hardly even be noticed with their doors closed. The corner approach also allows the heat to radiate out across the room effectively.

The Environment

The Swedish are well known for adding environmentally friendly features to their houses. This can be as simply as embracing the energy efficient light bulbs, to adding solar panels or a ground source heat pump. Insulation and triple glazing are also standard on new builds and help to create the warm, inviting interior of a Swedish house.

Less is more

Scandinavian design does not incorporate an abundance of ornaments and accessories. The approach is minimalistic in order to keep the clean lines and bright spaces that they desire. Among the few accessories will usually be a plant or bunch of flowers to add a touch of the outside to the décor. Blend your minimalistic approach with natural materials and you will have a beautiful house that you can
actually live in!

Embrace the Swedish home design and transform your home into a welcoming, truly inviting living nest. Choose a dominant color that best lives up to your expectations, and don’t be afraid to improvise. Oversized throw pillows, flower pots with seasonal flowers and custom-made furniture items are everything you need for a Swedish-inspired home.

A Swedish Early Gustavian Period Console Table circa 1770 1st dibs

A Swedish Early Gustavian Period Console Table circa 1770 1st dibs

19th Century Swedish Gustavian Pedestal Table

19th Century Swedish Gustavian Pedestal Table

Set of Four 18th Century Swedish Gustavian Chairs

Set of Four 18th Century Swedish Gustavian Chairs

19th Century Swedish Gustavian Style Bench

19th Century Swedish Gustavian Style Bench

Continue Reading…

Guides - Swedish Designers

5 Pieces Of Wise Decorating Advice From Tricia Foley

Tricia Foley {staircase} by recent settlers on Flickr

Tricia Foley {staircase} by recent settlers on Flickr

“I think that many people try to copy what’s trendy rather than trusting their own personal style in decorating a home and then the look doesn’t last. If you’re really not sure about making decorating decisions, keep a file of pictures of favorite rooms culled from books and magazines to help narrow it down”  Tricia Foley

“In terms of color for walls, I always do a test patch and live with it to see how the color responds to the light and with the existing furnishings. It’s also important to put it all together and make sure that your color palette is compatible and that you’re not acquiring furniture and accessories in bits and pieces that don’t work together. “Tricia Foley

“It makes sense to follow the architectural style of the space. Determine the function of the room and really think about how you will use it. Then furnish it appropriately for those uses. Finally, layer on your own personal style — not someone else’s. Aim for personal comfort as well as visual appeal level.” Tricia Foley

Go with good classic design in terms of furniture. I always look for multi-purpose pieces, that can be used for other rooms as living conditions change. Set the scene for your own personal style with neutral walls and floors. Then add simple window treatments and bed linens to transform a space with color.” Tricia Foley

“I see children’s rooms as part of the home, not so much a separate world. I would design the space so that it visually belongs to the rest of the family spaces. It should also be a comfort zone for children and a place for them to express themselves with their own things — there are lots of great storage units, armoires, bins, etc. that are perfect for kids rooms in grownup styles but scaled down sizes available from Pottery Barn for kids, for example Traditions and Mitchell Gold make smaller versions of armchairs from leather club chairs to slipcovered pretty cotton wing chairs that suit many styles.” Tricia Foley

Tricia Foley triciafoley.com/

Tricia On Pinterest

Glass For Every Occasion Tricia Foley

Glass For Every Occasion Tricia Foley-Found on triciafoley.com

Tricia Foley

Guides - Nordic Decorating

Antique Cradles,Cribs And Prams

Theriault's Antique Doll Auctions, Found on theriaults.com

Theriault’s Antique Doll Auctions, Found on theriaults.com

Antique Prams

If you enjoy looking through prams and antique baby items, check out this pinterest page with more than 500 pins. 

Karel de Bazel & Frans Zwollo, Cradle of Princess Juliana,1909 Found on curiouslychanging.tumblr.com

-Karel de Bazel & Frans Zwollo, Cradle of Princess Juliana,1909 Found on curiouslychanging.tumblr.com

 

DIY - Do It Yourself Swedish Home

Trend Report! Decorating With Unfinished Furniture

 

Home Office Chair with Casters, Unfinished$130 (Affiliate Link)

Sidetable from International Concepts (Affiliate link)- $84 here

Swedish 18th Century Style- Miniature portraits of Louis XVI, Marie Antoinette, Louis XVII and Marie-Therese, Madame Royal, late 19th or early 20th CImagine this in wood- ( Miniature portraits of Louis XVI, Marie Antoinette, Louis XVII and Marie-Therese, Madame Royal, late 19th or early 20th C)

The raw rustic/industrial style they are showing in all of the magazines right now is not going away for a long time. The collection takes much of it’s inspiration from 1880′s old farms, factories & schools.

One of the key design features of this design you want to get correct, is the the style is raw untreated pine wood.  So this means, instead of using a satin varnish, consider using a completely flat varnish, such as “dead flat varnish, by Modern Masters”  This product will give you the look of raw wood, without taking the chance for accidental stains ruining your furniture.

Pine is back for sure! There is one difference, the polished/yellowish appearance is not how it is presented today. Trends show it newly cut, raw or white washed.

What do you think?  Could this fit into your home?

A-LARGE-PINE-BOOKCASE--500x525A Very large Pine Bookcase – Christies ($2,438)

3 Drawer Nightstand

This room shows another side chest painted.  This picture shows the Pemberley collection from Sanderson.  If you want to find a chest that looks like the one in the picture, consider The Home Accents Collection chest for $216

Swedish Style Raw Furniture

Others to consider :

  • International Concepts Table OT-91 $114
  • Cherry Sewing Table Kit– From Shaker Workshops $212
  • Mission Kids Unfinished Wood Chair – Set of 2-$128 on ebay
  • Set of 2 Natural Solid Wood Nightstands for $165 on ebay
  • Uttermost Agustin Light Walnut Stained Wood Accent Mirror – $358 on ebay

Capture 2 Capture

2 Salvaged Raw Finished Pine Tables-on ebay

untitled

Raw Wood- Source : Campagne – Décoration

Reclaimed-Mirror

The wood in this David Iatesta mirror started life as a tobacco barn in southern Maryland. The aged, reclaimed wood has been paired with a reproduction French trumeau; the mirror is also available antiqued. Available through Egg & Dart, Ltd., Denver, CO, (303) 744-1676; or www.davidiatesta.com

Swiss restaurant in St. Moritz

Suzanne Dimma, Contributing Blogger for House & Home, posted some stunning pictures of Milan Furniture Fair. Amongst all the photos, my favorite was the picture she took of a Swiss restaurant in St. Moritz. The raw wood paneling, paired with gold framed oval portraits centered in the recessed panels were a treat to the eyes.

Framed-Exposed-Architecture

This interesting one-bedroom apartment situated in central London is available for rent with or without the furnishings. See more about this unique home at the Modern House web site.

Guides - Nordic Decorating

A Look At 19th and 20th Century Furniture In Sweden

19th Century Swedish Painted Cabinets – Find It on Ebay

Swedish 20th Century FurnitureVintage Mid-Century Daybed by Karl-Erik Ekselius for Dux

Guest Post Jason Phillips

History can teach us many things; it is full of brave deeds and constantly changing cultural views. These events have helped to shape the world as it is today. Even if
many of the socially accepted standards of today are vastly different from what was historically acceptable, you will find that many current design techniques date from a much older period in time.

Swedish furniture is recognized around the world as being stylish with minimal lines, it does not scream out ‘look at me’, but it is recognizable. This approach to furniture design reflects the designs of Scandinavia in general and has resulted in many remarkable pieces and spaces; all reflecting functionality and nature.

19th Century

This is commonly recognized as the beginning of the modernist movement. Until this time art was focused on being realistic and was a fairly restrictive affair. At the end of the 19th century the social theories of John Ruskin inspired many artists to abandon this way of thinking. Instead the idea was to focus on nature and traditional ways of creating items. It became important to see nature in every work of art or furnishing.

20th Century

The first new art movement in the 20th century is known as ‘Jugendstil’, or ‘art nouveau’. This was the movement away from the rigid concepts of the 19th century
and an embracement of the decorative style of art which is still seen today. It became part of the social status; people wanted to be seen to be different.
It is this period that saw many furniture makers turn to older designs, which emphasized nature and free flowing lines. The First World War encouraged these processes as it was a way to break out from a traditional mould and rebel against the established order. It was this return to clean lines and nature which became associated with Swedish furniture and ultimately became known as ‘the Scandinavian way of living.’

The middle of the 20th century saw many exhibitions around the world which helped to spread the word concerning the Swedish way of designing furniture. Swedish
design has stayed true to its roots; the need to be functional was exceptionally important in such an isolated part of the world, just as was the need to use natural,
local resources. The addition of beautiful clean lines came about as furniture became less about functionality and more concerned with attracting and distributing the
limited light available.

Recognizing Swedish Designs

One hundred years after the movement first started it is now easy to recognize Swedish furniture and there is at least one piece in the majority of houses around the
world. Typical designs follow these patterns:

  • Clean lines. Any design can be kept simplistic; functional and yet still aesthetically pleasing. This creates an elegant feel to any piece of furniture
    without sacrificing comfort.
  • Light. The long dark winters and limited light encouraged the use of white to reflect the limited light available. Typical designs use minimal window
    coverings, cushions with designer fabric, plenty of mirrors to reflect the light and simple lines to amplify the effect.
  • Color. White is the predominate theme in many Swedish designs; this is again in reference to the limited light available during the long winters in Sweden.White furnishings make any room feel larger and brighter; color can still be added through the accessories.
  • Wood. Much of the Swedish furniture is still made from wood. Ash, Beech and Pine are the preferred choices as these are native to Sweden. This creates a natural, warm look to any home; often complemented by a few potted plants to bring nature inside.
  • Textiles. In keeping with the principles of simplicity there are not usually many textiles used in the traditional Swedish designs. A few well placed soft furnishings can add a personal effect without deviating from the core principles of function, nature and light.

Transform your home into a royal Swedish private space. Include sleek patterns with white accents and lavish accessories, and give rooms an individual, alluring vibe.
Don’t forget about the clean lines – they’ll balance your home perfectly, and they’ll make it appear more innovative than ever before.

Swedish 20th Century FurnitureSwedish Cabinet

Swedish 20th Century Furniture

The most amazing Swedish 1950s cabinet designed by Josef Frank. Mahogany and interior of birch. Adjustable shelves. Decorated with illustrations from the book “Nordens Flora” by C. A. M. Lindman. Produced by Svensk Tenn. Vintage 1950s Josef Frank “Nordens Flora” Cabinet

Swedish 20th Century FurnitureSwedish Grace Daybed or Sofa by Eric Chambert, circa 1930

 Swedish 20th Century Furniture

Table Mirror by Uno & Östen Kristiansson for Luxus of Sweden, 1960s

Swedish Grace Wingback Chair

Kjell Blomberg Glass Vase by Gullaskruf in Sweden

Josef Frank Table Mirror in Brass by Nordiska Kompaniet in Sweden

 

Guides - Magazine Editorals With Nordic Decorating

Tropical Twist In An Norwegian Home By Nicolette Horn

Scandinavian home of Nicolette Horn Tropical Twist In An Norwegian Home By Nicolette Horn

An Island-Inspired House in Oslo… Norway Interior designer Nicolette Horn brings a bit of the Bahamas into her Scandinavian home.

“I wanted to feel lifted up when I came inside,” Horn says, “and for me, that means feeling like I am in the Bahamas.”

This despite the house’s resolutely Scandinavian exterior, which is dark brown with deep red accents. “It’s a Hansel-and-Gretel house,” Horn says with a laugh.

Yet the interior is no mere replica of a Caribbean residence. Horn accents island style with Asian touches — pagodas on the dining table, lacquered furnishings in the living room — as well as with Scandinavian notes, including candlelit chandeliers, mirrors to multiply the light, and muslin-covered Gustavian-style chairs. And she has a soft spot for the breezy sensibility of summers on the east end of Long Island, which can be felt in the kick-off-your-shoes elegance of the arrangements.

Read more at housebeautiful.com

DIY - Do It Yourself Swedish Home

Impressive History Of Fine Swedish Table Linen

Volga Linen

Volga Linen

Guest Post, Jason Phillips

Linen has been a part of humanity for thousands of years. The ancient Egyptians used it to dress and as cloths. Pieces of linen have been found which date back to 4,200 BC although there are not many which have survived!  Swedish linen today is made in a very similar way to those original processes. During the 1500’s tablecloths were used by the wealthy, the cloths were made from damask linen which was imported by Flanders and Holland. The cloths were ornate and decorative; it wasn’t until the 1800’s that the use of tablecloths became a common item in many homes.

Linens In The 18th Century

In 1730 a man called Stephen Bennet set up a linen factory in Sweden; the business had approximately eighty looms and produced some of the best quality damask of the period.  The factory was operated until 1845 when it, unfortunately, closed down. During this time Sweden was building a reputation for producing high quality flax and linen; this is the origins of the fine quality Swedish table linen available today.

Volga Linen

The Production Process

Men were generally responsible for the heavier work; this mainly involved the carrying and lifting of the heavy materials involved in the production process. Women and children were used to create the actual linen. This was generally split between the ones who had a high degree of manual dexterity; these were the ones who made the fine quality table linen and used one of the looms. The less able children and women dealt with the more mundane work; which was essential to ensure the production was successful.

It was the women who were usually responsible for coloring the flax. This could be a time consuming and awkward job as the majority of the dyes were not colorfast. Most of the dyes were created from natural materials such as leaves, lichens, moss and bark.

A Sound Reputation

The process of weaving fine table linen may have been complicated but its quality was becoming known in many places around Europe. There are many stories of satisfied customers. One particular example which has been told many times over the generations is in regard to a gentleman called Calle Redhe who owned one of the weaveries in Sweden. He used to personally take some of his linens to Norway and the story tells of the summer he went to Norway and met an elderly lady.

The lady knew who he was and, upon confirming his identity, immediately asked for some napkins to go with a tablecloth which she had purchased nearly sixty years before. The tablecloth had been made by Calle’s father and was produced on the same loom; something which delighted the elderly women and ensured she told everyone she knew.

Modern Productions

The high quality linen produced today in many of the factories across Sweden utilizes the same methods as were used so many years ago. The overshot weave cloth is still patterned and is made to at least the same quality standards as the original pieces. The production methods may be ancient but they have stood the test of time and many people are able to purchase elaborate, ornate pieces of linen which look and feel like they should belong to royalty.  The industry today is proud of its heritage and works hard to produce items which will also stand the test of time and inspire those in the future.

Just as you can buy something today which will match something your grandmother bought; so too will your children or even grandchildren be able to match your purchase.  As long as linen making is a part of the Swedish culture it will be possible to purchase your own piece of history!

Whether you’re hunting for table linens or bed sheets, it is important to focus on quality. The best fabrics are Egyptian cotton and silk. While it’s true that these are more expensive than polyester or cotton blends, they last longer. They’re hypo-allergenic and they have a functional purpose too. Good quality cotton traps moisture and it protects your furniture. Used in the kitchen or dining room, luxury linen fabrics prevent dust from settling and they have an appealing design too; just make sure the set chosen for your bedroom matches with the overall appeal of your room.

Picture Credits, Volga Linen Styling by Simon Kämpfer, Photography: Yuki Sugiura

Volga Linen3 Volga Linen4 Volga Linen5

 

Guides - Touring The Nordic Countries

A Look Behind 3 Nordic Estates

Picture Credit- Unofficial Royalty

Gjestestuene at Norsk Folkemuseum

Gjestestuene at Norsk Folkemuseum- commons.wikimedia.org

Gjestestuene –Gjestestuene is beautifully situated at the Norwegian Folk Museum in Oslo. Gjestestuene is surrounded by old farmsteads and a stave church from the 1200s. Gjestestuene was built in 1917 by the renowned architect Magnus Poulsson. His style was was quite popular in the early 1900s.  Today you can host a dinner party or a wedding at Gjestestuene, as they cater to groups as little as 15 and as large as 250 people.

Gjestestuene selskapslokaler
Strømsborgveien 2, 0287 Oslo, Norway
+47 488 91 603

Bakkehuset-( Bakkehusmuseet ) is a historic house museum in the Frederiksberg district of Copenhagen, Denmark. Dating from the 1520s, this building has been used for a number of functions. It was used as a farmhouse, inn, a home, as well as a hospital and orphanage. Today, it functions as a museum has a beautiful small park will be located next to the museum.

Bakkehusmuseet.dk

Rahbeks Alle 23, 1801 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
+45 33 31 43 62

Bygdø Royal Farm –Bygdø Royal Farm is located in Oslo, Norway and today is owned by the state but at the  King’s disposal. Bygdø Royal Farm has been owned or used by Norwegian monarchs since 1305.   The farm dates back to the Middle Ages.  King Christian Frederik resided here during his reign in 1814. In 1837 King Carl Johan bought Bygdø Royal Farm from the state.  He had the French gardens re-landscaped in the more natural English style, and enlarged the lake to its current size. The property remained in royal hands until 1863, when King Carl IV sold it back to the state. In 1905, King Haakon VII and Queen Maud began using the farm as their permanent summer residence and enabled the Queen to be able to pursue her interest in gardening.

Bygdø is one of the best examples of an upper class 17-18th-century country houses in Norway. At that time it was the custom in all the Scandinavian countries for the upper classes to spend the winter in the city and move to estates in the surrounding countryside during the summer. The estates were actively farmed in the summer to supply during the winter months in the city.

The present main house was built by Count Christian Rantzau, from 1731 to 1739, as his summer residence. By 1734 the house was complete and the property had been redesigned in the contemporary Baroque style.  The house is a fine example of Norwegian early Baroque panel architecture.  The main building and garden are designed to complement each other. The development of the garden reflects the history of Norwegian landscape gardening from the early 18th century to the first decades of the 20th.  After the death of King Olav the park was somewhat neglected, but in 2003 restoration work begun that was completed by summer 2007, when the King and Queen resumed the tradition of using Bygdø as summer residence.  Source royalcourt.no

Bygdøy Royal Farm

Bygdøy, 0287 Oslo, Norway
+47 22 04 87 00

Bakkehusmuseet

Bakkehuset- en.wikipedia.org

Bakkehuset- Swedish Estate Tours

Bakkehuset bakkehusmuseet.dk

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Guides - Touring The Nordic Countries

The BEST Antiques Fair In Sweden THIS August- 80 Dealers! Preview The Goods ONE DAY In ADVANCE With A Pass

Are you interested in seeing the best antiques Sweden has to offer?

The highest quality finds will be at the Malmö Dekorativa Antiques Fair, August 27 – 30th.

Malmö Dekorativa Antiques Fair is the third largest antiques fair in Sweden, with 80 antiques dealers from all over the country and the Copenhagen area, offering depth of knowledge and reputation of quality Swedish antiques.

Considered a trade secret among Swedish dealers, making the event a “must-visit” destination for the international trade as well.

Experience Swedish antiques, folk art, design and collectibles in the perfect settings of Katrinetorps buildings and gardens.

Here is how you can access to this first-class event ONE DAY EARLY:

Contact Daniel Larsson, as tickets are only accessible with an invitation.

Daniel sits on the advisory board of Malmö Dekorativa Antiques Fair, which allows him all-access pass. He will be able to prepare badges and passes for those who are interested in viewing the advance preview.

The fair opens at 08.00 on Thursday FOR DEALERS the 27th of August, one day before the general public which enters at three a clock on Friday the 28th Aug.

There will be a transport company at the fair that can help you with delivery of purchased items.

For a one of a-kind-look before the fair opens, contact Daniel.

Daniel Larsson
International Trade Marketing / Advisory Board
Malmö Dekorativa Antiques Fair

D.Larsson Interiör & Antikhandel
Wrangelsgatan 13
254 39 Helsingborg
Sweden

Tel: 0046 734 38 18 43

Mail: info@dlarssoninterior.com

Address Of The Fair:

Katrinetorplanderi.
Katrinetorps allé 1,
215 74 Malmö.

Google Map

Malmö Dekorativa Antiques Fair 3Malmö Dekorativa Antiques Fair 2Malmö Dekorativa Antiques Fair 1

Guides - Nordic Decorating

Linen Has An Incredible History- Find Out Why……

The Swedish Country House by Susanna Scherman

The Swedish Country House by Susanna Scherman- Found on homedesign.marthastewart.com

Guest Post – Jason Phillips

Linen is a type of fabric or textile manufactured from fibers. The making process is laborious, and the result is truly remarkable. Many things are made of linen including towels, aprons, bags, tablecloths, bed linens, runners, curtains, drapes, upholstery covers and more. Textiles that feature a linen weave texture, even those made in combination with hemp or cotton, are also referred to as linens; some have specific names, such as madapolam, which is a fine cotton yard wove in linen style.

Linen textiles have an incredible history. Fragments of seeds, yards, straw and additional types of materials date back to 8000 BC, and were usually found in Swedish homes. In Ancient Egypt, linens were used as currency, and the mummies had to be wrapped in this luxury material as a symbol of purity and light. Nowadays, fine linens are high-priced yet incredibly qualitative.

Curtains And Drapes

In the early 18th century most homes still used shutters to block light and make the place appear private and secluded from the eyes of people on the street. However, they had a fuller texture and came in different styles than in the 17th century. As for the materials, main fabrics were cotton chintz, taffeta, and velvet. A valance or pelmet cornice was usually employed to hide the workings. Then the paired curtains made an entrance. They were topped with stiffened pelmets and featured embroidery work and appliqués; also, they had a really elegant shape. The linen fabric used for the curtains included Rococo motifs, including knots of ribbons, garlands of flowers, and leave fronds.

By the middle of the century, pelmets became a lot softer, with small tails and shallow swagging and bells. Portieres had lighter curtains and deeper pelmets designed in Italian style. Store marquises, also known as light silk festoons, were widely used with beautifully draped pelmets. At the end of the 18th century, roller blinds made an entrance as well. Their use was first recorded in 1726, in London.

Fabrics

There was a great variety of fancy fabrics one could select from in the 18th century. There was one industry in particular that thrived – the silk industry. Fragile florals, lace, and scallop, as well as patterns that incorporated doves and other beautiful prints were in high demand. Inside people’s homes silk was the most appreciated. It was used for linings, beds, tables and inner covers. During that time the bed in the bedroom had sophisticated hangings, which were also made of silk; those who could afford to invest in such fancy linens, bought Genoese silk velvet.

For the windows, brocades and silk damasks were highly appreciated. For hangings, brocatelle was still in high demand. Ribbed silk, satin, chintz, taffeta and clouded silk were all exceptional materials used mainly for curtains. Those who couldn’t afford such fancy linens had great alternatives, such as moreen for draperies and beds, and velvet or silk mohair for chair coverings.

The most exclusive chintz was manufactured in Versailles, and was produced by Jouy-en-Josas. However, throughout the 18th century, in England and France there was an anti-cloth law materializing. It was aimed at protecting silk and wool industries. The production went full ahead in 1770.

Sophisticated Trimmings

In the 18th century there was a wide variety of sophisticated trimmings  materializing in Germany, Ireland, the Netherlands, England and Switzerland, mainly due to the battle of Huguenot craftsmen n the 1600s France. Narrow and broad bands of rich colored lace were used thus contrasting the rich, new techniques. Furthermore, fancy details started being used such as frogging, gold galloon and artificial flowers on valance and pelmets; these were meant to replace entirely heavy trims found in the 17th century.Embroidered, tie backs or appliquéd and ended with ribbons or bows became a new feature in home décor that many people adopted for their window treatments.

Decorating with 18th century linens from the French period will add sophistication to your personal space. Give your windows the treatment they deserve and use luxury linen materials for the curtains and shades. Make your bedroom seem romantic, your living area chic and welcoming, and your kitchen practical and fun. Consider the best materials and the finest shapes, and your entire home will come back to life.

19th Century France Napoleon III Settee

19th Century France Napoleon III Settee

Pair of 19th Century French, Napoleon III Armchairs

Pair of 19th Century French, Napoleon III Armchairs

Napoleon III Chaise Longue

Napoleon III Chaise Longue

WIngback Chair Seen At One Kings Lane

Gustavian Lounge Chair, Sweden, c.1780 Ist Dibs

Gustavian Lounge Chair, Sweden, c.1780, Found on 1stdibs.com

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Guides - Rustic Nordic Country Style

45 Examples Of Country Styled Nordic Interiors

Anna Maria King Upholstered Bed

Anna Maria King Upholstered Bed Found on ballarddesigns.com

Mlinaric, Henry and Zervudachi

Mlinaric, Henry and Zervudachi

Sweden Early 20th Century A great neoclassical Swedish gray. and white painted oval table in Louis XVI style. Good scale with nice carving and a good later painted finish.

Sweden Early 20th Century A great neoclassical Swedish gray. and white painted oval table in Louis XVI style. Good scale with nice carving and a good later painted finish Found on 1stdibs.com

Swedish Longcase Mora clock c.1860 scraped back to original paint.

Swedish Longcase Mora clock c.1860 scraped back to original paint Found on europeanantiques.co.nz

The exhibition of Dala horses in Dalarnas Museum in Falun by Feltangel on Flickr

The exhibition of Dala horses in Dalarnas Museum in Falun by Feltangel on Flickr

 

The furnishings of the Anteroom are typical of the Empire period with very few ornaments and a strict positioning of the furniture ~ Sweden

The furnishings of the Anteroom are typical of the Empire period with very few ornaments and a strict positioning of the furniture ~ Sweden, Found on designdecorreview.tumblr.com

Swedish Rococo Commode 18th century

Swedish Rococo Commode 18th century, Found on 1stdibs.com

Dala Horse

Dala Horse, Found on designsponge.com

Antique Blue Cutting Board From One Kings Lane

Antique Blue Cutting Board, Found on onekingslane.com

Complete Chinois Set of Stencils for Wall Decor and More, Found on etsy

Complete Chinois Set of Stencils for Wall Decor and More, Found on etsy.com

Swedish Mora Clocks

Mora Clock in Original Salmon Paint Found on 1stdibs.com

Swedish Tall Case Clock, ca.1780-1800 Found on 1stdibs.com

Decorating The Swedish Style

Swedish Gustavian Bench, Found on dlarssoninterior.com

Swedish Rococo Mirror Sconces, Found on dlarssoninterior.com

K & Co. Fransk Antik & Industriel Vintage. Vesterbrogade 177. 1800 Frederiksberg C. www.k-co.dk

Traditional Living-rooms from Charles Faudree on HGTV, Found on hgtv.com

19th Century Swedish Orange Painted Wooden Clock Found on 1stdibs

19th Century Swedish Orange Painted Wooden Clock  Found on 1stdibs.com

Decorating The Swedish Style

Gustavian Style Found on houzz.com

Harvest Basket, Found on anthropologie.com

Directoire Bed, Found on eloquenceinc.com

De-constructed Chair – Found on inspired-design.tumblr.com

Swedish Bench Sofa Bed

Swedish Bench Sofa Bed, Found on annetteputtnamantiques.co.uk

Scandinavian tuck-away daybed, 19th c., Found on liveauctioneers

Scandinavian tuck-away daybed, 19th c., Found on liveauctioneers.com

Alden Collections, Swedish Furniture InspirationsAlden Furniture Collections- Curations Limited

Pottery Barn, Restoration Hardware Baby

Embroidered Rose Bird Pillow Cover Pottery Barn

Restoration Hardware Baby

Indigo Washed Nightstand And Chest - Anthropologie

Indigo Washed Nightstand And Chest – Anthropologie.com

Vineyard Stripe Rug Ballard Designs

Vineyard Stripe Rug Ballard Designs

Harbor Springs Floral Duvet Cover

Harbor Springs Floral Duvet Cover, Lands End

Reagan Floral Duvet Cover & Sham From Pottery Barn

Reagan Floral Duvet Cover & Sham From Pottery Barn

Orrefors GlassOrrefors Mirror Mirror Bowl Cut $89 Amazon

Orrefors Mirror 6-7/8-Inch Vase $99 Amazon

Swedish Interior Country Living Feb 1995 Photography By Barbara And Rene Stoeltie

Swedish Interior Country Living Feb 1995 Photography By Barbara And Rene Stoeltie

Swedish Interior Country Living Feb 1995 Photography By Barbara And Rene Stoeltie 2

Swedish Interior Country Living Feb 1995 Photography By Barbara And Rene Stoeltie

Russian Houses

Russian Houses -by Elizabeth Gaynor From $5.73 On Amazon

Replica of a ball gown of Empress Elizabeth displayed at the Catherine Palace in Tsarskoye Selo

Replica of a ball gown of Empress Elizabeth displayed at the Catherine Palace in Tsarskoye Selo- www.saint-petersburg.com

Delft tile at Rosenborg Castle, Copenhagen, Denmark

Delft tile at Rosenborg Castle, Copenhagen, Denmark

Drottningholm Palace, Stockholm.

Drottningholm Palace, Stockholm

Castle Wallenstein

Castle Wallenstein

Porcelain Kitchen at Tureholms Slott.

Porcelain Kitchen at Tureholms Slott- Jaanasgottoblandat.blogg.se

Ekebyholm fabric - Skattmanso bed Seen at Scandinavian Design Center

Buy Authentic Historical Textiles online at Ljungbergs Factory

Swedish Medallians Biskops Garden

Plaster medallions of Carl Michael Bellman & Ulla Hopken Seen at biskopsgarden.blogspot.com

Swedish Decor From biskopsgarden.blogspot.com

Swedish Decor From biskopsgarden.blogspot.com

Soft Blue Paneling Roche Bobois

Meubles Design – Roche Bobois

Gröna anemone: Lebellska köpmansgården

Gröna anemone: Lebellska köpmansgården

A Black Swedish Rococo Style Desk Circa 1850- Talisman London

Swedish Medallion

Swedish Medallion – www.metropol.se

Swedish Antiques From The HighboyPair of Swedish Sulla chairs with curved and open H-form backs, with original upholstery raised on splayed legs.- Highboy Antiques

Guides - Swedish Designers

20 Of The Most Beautiful Swedish Pieces From The Leading Antique Dealers

19th Century Swedish Painted Chest Find It on Ebay

Swedish AntiquesAnn Joerner Antiques,

William Word Fine Antiques

Swedish Antiques From The HighboySwedish richly carved Rococo period chair that has been with urn-shaped splat back with carved wings and flower on crest rail, low seat, curved and carved apron raised on cabriole legs and ending on splayed feet. The chair has been scraped down to the original paint and gilt. thehighboy.com

A striking Swedish Gustavian period mirror in original paint and gilt. This is a beautiful mirror with original mirror plate and typical neoclassical carving details. thehighboy.com

 

A beautiful Swedish Rococo period chest The High Boy

A beautiful Swedish Rococo period chest with original lock, hardware and key, circa 1750 thehighboy.com

Terrific Painted Details On A Bed From Old Plank

Terrific Painted Details Of A Antique French Directoire Style Canopy Bed From Old Plank

Terrific Painted Details Of A Antique French Directoire Style Canopy Bed From Old Plank

A Look Under The Canopy Of A French Directoire Style Canopy Bed From Old Plank

Danish Baroque chest of drawers, Denmark c. 1740-1760 Green Square Copenhagen

Danish Baroque chest of drawers, Denmark c. 1740-1760 Green Square Copenhagen

Swedish Mora Clocks From The Highboy Antiques

This is a very rare, richly carved Swedish Rococo period grandfather clock that has been scraped down to the original paint. This clock is from Morin, Sweden. Morin clocks are not as common as Mora clocks (clocks from Mora, Sweden) and therefore more rare. This clock is working and using its original movement, key, weight, face, and glass. Circa 1750.

Swedish Mora Clocks From The Highboy Antiques

Swedish Mora Clocks from The Highboy Antiques

Swedish Secretary in Original Blue Paint, Signed and Dated 1858

Swedish Secretary in Original Blue Paint, Signed and Dated 1858 Dawn Hill Antiques

Dawn Hill AntiquesDawn Hill Antiques

Antique Painted Swedish Armoire with Carved Detail, circa 1850-70 Scandinavian Antiques

Antique Painted Swedish Armoire with Carved Detail, circa 1850-70 Scandinavian Antiques

Antique Original Painted Green Corner Cupboard, Sweden Circa 1880

Antique Original Painted Green Corner Cupboard, Sweden Circa 1880, Scandinavian Antiques

Swedish Antiques From The Highboy AntiquesSwedish Mora Clocks From The Highboy Antiques

19th Century Painted Swedish Clock Built Into A Secretary – From The Highboy

Kay O'Toole

Kay O’Toole

Louis XVI style carved upholstered chair.- 36 in. T X 23 in. Woglethorpeauctions On ebay

Louis XVI style carved upholstered chair Woglethorpeauctions On ebay

19th Century Swedish Mora Tall Case Clock From The Highboy 19th Century Swedish Mora Tall Case Clock From The Highboy 2 19th Century Swedish Mora Tall Case Clock From The Highboy 3

Blue Green Painted Mora Clock The Highboy Antiques

Norrköping Auction HouseGustavian sold for 26 000 SEK in Norrköping Auction House- godsochgardar.se

Hultanäs Antikt & Second Hand is located in Hultanäs

Hultanäs Antikt & Second Hand -located in Hultanäs

Very Rare Gustavian Sofa, 1785

Very Rare Gustavian Sofa, 1785- trendfirst.com

Gustavaian 19thC Bench Scraped to Original Paint

Gustavaian 19thC Bench Scraped to Original Paint –antonandk.co.uk

Swedish SofasSwedish Antique Period Gustavian Daybed, Swedish Banquette, Swedish Antique Gustavian-Style Painted Bench From thehighboy.com

Swedish Pine Bench The Highboy Antiques

Originally functioned as a daybed with the seat lifting up and the box pulling out like a drawer to offer a space that is double the depth where a mattress would have offered a guest a place to sleep. Great as a bench in a room that can double as a toy box! The Highboy Antiques

Italian Trumeau Mirror, Comprised of 18th & 19th Century Architectural Elements Sold Through Maison Maison

Italian Trumeau Mirror, Comprised of 18th & 19th Century Architectural Elements Sold

Through Maison Maison

Antique Swedish Mora Case Clock The Highboy Antiques 1 2 Antique Swedish Mora Case Clock The Highboy Antiques 1 3 Antique Swedish Mora Case Clock The Highboy Antiques 1

Classic Mora clock in white painted finish with stylized floral carving The Highboy Antiques

Freestanding consol table. Circa. 1790 - 1810.

Freestanding consol table. Circa. 1790 – 1810, selected-antiques.dk

Gustavian style extension table with bronze mountings, and one leaf 19th C.

Gustavian style extension table with bronze mountings, and one leaf 19th C. selected-antiques.dk

 

Gustavian style table with two leaves, late 19th C.

Gustavian style table with two leaves, late 19th C. selected-antiques.dk

Gustavian style, extension table, with later 2 leaves. Signed 1901.

Gustavian style, extension table, with later 2 leaves. Signed 1901. selected-antiques.dk

Pair of Gustavian style demi-lune tables, 19th C.

Pair of Gustavian style demi-lune tables, 19th C. selected-antiques.dk

Swedish table with three drawers, circa 1800

Swedish table with three drawers, circa 1800 selected-antiques.dk

Rare lovely Gustavian freestanding table, circa 1810

Rare lovely Gustavian freestanding table, circa 1810 selected-antiques.dk

Swedish painted freestanding rococo table, with carved apron, circa 1750.Swedish painted freestanding rococo table, with carved apron, circa 1750. selected-antiques.dk

Gustavian Furniture

Very rare richly carved grand father clock, in original paint. Circa 1760- selected-antiques.dk

Swedish Rococo Chairs

A set of 8 Swedish Rococo chairs made during the Rococo period 1750-1775. Contemporary upholstery in a soft brown vintage leather.

The Rococo style came to Sweden from France, but trends also came form England. This set of chairs are made on the west coast of Sweden, an area highly influenced by England. English chairs from this time were often made in walnut. Since that type of wood were very rare in Sweden the Swedish version is painted. Starting with the back the chairs have a vase shaped back splat with a top rail decorated with a leaf motif. The cabriole legs have knees with fish scale carvings ending with claw and ball feet – significant for an English chair.This chair is a comfortable choice when choosing an antique dining chair thanks to its tall back and generous seat. We chose to use vintage leather to give the seat a durable and insensitive surface. Read Liza Laserow’s blog at lizalaserow.wordpress.com

Swedish ChestSwedish Chest – VOL. 1 antiques

Gustavian Furniture18th Century Swedish Gustavian Secretary from Maison & Co. maisonandco.com

Chelsea Textiles

Chelsea Textiles

Home Depot

Swedish Antique Displays Seen At The Home Depot

Swedish Antiques From The Highboy19th Century Swedish Drop-front Secretary, The Highboy

Early 19th Century Swedish Clock, The Highboy

Antique Swedish Antiques The Highboy AntiquesSwedish Chandeliers thehighboy.com

Period Swedish rococo writing desk, circa 1760, with original hardware and secondary blue paint. Three drawers in the bowed front with a smaller drawer just under the drop leaf. The interior features two banks of three drawers on either side, as well as other drawers and compartments. Original bun feet.

 Slant Front Writing Desk in Blue Paint– Sweden Circa 1820 Swedish writing desk, circa 1820, with four graduated drawers under the slant-front. The interior features a central cupboard with lozenge trim and two banks of three drawers on either side. Great patina on the secondary blue paint.

Black painted writing desk, Sweden circa 1760 with slant front and two over two
drawers. The interior in blue paint has multiple drawers and cubbies, with two
hidden compartments. Simple bun feet. (Depth when open is 34″.)

Guides - Nordic Decorating

How To Select The Right Linen For Your Children’s Bedroom- Kids Room Decor Ideas

Guest Post Jason Phillips

Your kid’s bedroom has to look fun and entertaining; otherwise the little ones may not want spend time in it.

What can parents do to make their bedrooms appear more enticing without investing a lot of money on new furniture or a flat-screen TV?

Believe it or not, playful bed linens can have an amazing effect. You kids will love the colorful designs and interesting patterns. You can opt for bed linen deigns with superheroes and princesses, or you can opt for the educational ones with letters and animals.

Here are 5 playful ideas that will convert your kid’s room into a fabulous environment.

1. Bear Print Bed Linen Designs

Allow the kids to explore the woods and let them enjoy a good night sleep tucked in bed linens with bear patterns.

Consider a natural green color, and make sure the material is 100% cotton.

It is important to invest in quality too, not just in design. Cotton is comfortable and it allows the skin to breathe. As for the print, kids will definitely adore the bears, as well as the color. Consider a full set with cover, sheet and pillow cases, and create a nature-inspired bed for your beloved kids.

2. Baby Blue Linens With Car Designs

Little boys love cars, as well as the blue color.

Combine these two and make their beds cool. Consider linens with more than one car model, and before bedtime talk about the prints. Who knows, maybe your son will grow up a mechanic’s enthusiast or an engineer? Make sure the bedding set is colorful to draw his attention. Trucks, motorbikes, SUV, and others, will transform your kid’s bed into a virtual dealership. Have together before bedtime, and they will go to sleep with a lot more enthusiasm and determination.

3. Pastel Pink Linens With Star Designs

Girls are fond of lighter colors of pink, yellow and purple. They want their rooms to look colorful and playful, if possible be filled with stuffed animals, dolls, and glitter.

Choosing bed linens for girls can be challenging, and that’s because unlike boys, girls tend to be really picky. Regardless, as long as their linens have attractive patterns, they’ll certainly love to sleep in them.

Star signs, golden crowns, and even “princess” message prints are excellent ideas. Make sure that you spend time together too; read them a related story before bedtime, and they’ll love their new sheets.

4. Bed Linens With Letter Designs

Bed linens with letter designs are excellent for pre-scholars. Apart from being colorful and extremely appealing to the eye, bedding with imprinted letters is an opportunity for parents to teach the alphabet to their kids.

Do it in a fun way, but try not to make the process seem like a dreadful activity. Make it fun – associate each letter with an animal for example, and even turn to onomatopoeia to help the kids remember that animal, and its corresponding letter. To help the kids remember the letters better, go for white cotton linens with black letters (or pink for girls). This way you’ll create a visual appeal.

5. Deep Blue & Silver Stars Cotton Linens

Kids are drawn by strong color palettes, such as deep blue, green or yellow.

To convince them to go to bed on time, you could buy them a set of linens with star prints. Combined with deep blue, their beds will look like the sky at night. Make sure the pillow cases have moon designs, and they will have the most relaxing sleep. Bedding for children is not easy to pick. The secret is to consider attractive patterns and soft materials.

We spend too much time spending money on low quality items that don’t last. But when it comes to linen fabric for kids ‘beds, we can’t afford to compromise.

It is important to purchase quality linens because when they’re little, kids sleep a lot.

They’re growing and you can’t risk ruining their health with low quality linens that trigger rashes and allergies. Of course, this doesn’t mean you should buy expensive sheets you can’t afford.

Stick to 100% cotton because it is both comfortable and durable, and stay as far away as possible from synthetic fibers.

Picture Credit –Antique Vintage European Textiles On Ebay

Volga Linen

Linen Fabrics

Fabric Selections From Volga Fabrics

Red Trim Bed Linen Volga Linen

Red Trim Bed Linen > Volga Linen

Narrow Stripe LinenNarrow Stripe Linen From Volga Fabrics

Wide Stripe LinenWide Stripe Linen From Volga Linen

If you don't like ironing, these are perfect for you! Crushed bed linen in a choice of slate grey, ivory white, prussian blue or sea green From Volga Linen

If you don’t like ironing, these are perfect for you! Crushed bed linen in a choice of slate grey, ivory white, prussian blue or sea green

Volga Linen

Embroidery From Volga Linen

Volga Linen

Decorate With Linens For A Period Look- Prussian blue throw with natural border over classical hem stitch bed linen

Featured here is their saffron throw in Country Homes & Interiors Magazine- from Volga Linen

Featured here is their saffron throw in Country Homes & Interiors Magazine- from Volga Linen

Pure linen throws with a natural border in five colors - Saffron, Slate Grey, Parma Grey, Putty, Prussian Blue & Sea Green from Volga LinenPure linen throws with a natural border in five colors – Saffron, Slate Grey, Parma Grey, Putty, Prussian Blue & Sea Green from Volga Linen

 

DIY - Do It Yourself Swedish Home

Making Summer Slipcovers For Your Upholstered Furniture

Making Summer Slipcovers For Your Upholstered Furniture- Martha Stewart's Furniture 1Making Summer Slipcovers For Your Upholstered Furniture- Martha Stewart's Furniture 1

Martha Stewart showed how her wool and silk covered wingback chairs were given a new look for the spring and summer months with slipcovers.  Slipcovers can save your furniture from being ruined over time, and give you an entirely new crisp look for the warmer summer season.   Work with lighter fabrics, and don’t be afraid of contacting a professional seamstress to make your slipcovers if you are not so talented working with a sewing machine.  A great slipcover should last you a number of years if it is made properly.  Photography by Sarah Maingot.

More great articles by Martha Stewart

Making a Slipcover | Martha Stewart

Summer Sewing Projects | Martha Stewart

Sofa & Chair Slipcover Ideas | Martha Stewart

Martha Stewart Home Collection – Macy’s

Our Favorite Sewing Projects | Martha Stewart

Sewing Patterns and Templates | Martha Stewart

Secrets to Shopping Flea Markets and Yard Sales | Martha Stewart

The Hottest Natural Looks For Slipcovering Your Furniture- The Swedish Furniture

Making Summer Slipcovers For Your Upholstered Furniture- Martha Stewart's Furniture 2Making Summer Slipcovers For Your Upholstered Furniture- Martha Stewart's Furniture 3Making Summer Slipcovers For Your Upholstered Furniture- Martha Stewart's Furniture 4Making Summer Slipcovers For Your Upholstered Furniture- Martha Stewart's Furniture 5Making Summer Slipcovers For Your Upholstered Furniture- Martha Stewart's Furniture 6