Tag: Gustavian Style

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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

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 - 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

Guides - Nordic Decorating

Decorating Around Red- Historical Interior Design Ideas

Antique Vintage European Textiles On Ebay

Home-Beautiful-Red-Colors

House Beautiful Magazine featured the top favorite red colors from the most famous interior designers. Here are my favorite 9 red shades of paint from their selection of 24

TOP ROW:

1.”This is a really deep coral, kind of like a cheerful Chinese red. Pinks and reds to me are synonymous with frozen drinks and relaxing.” –Richard Mishaan Pictured, Benjamin Moore‘s Chili Pepper 2004-20

2.”When I look for red, I want a pure, true red, like the color in the American flag. Ralph Lauren does absolutely the best. It’s the essence of red. It makes me think of boating or polo.” –Suzanne Kasler Pictured, Ralph Lauren Paint‘s Dressage Red TH41

3. “Red never goes out of style. It’s full of life — always fresh, always fun to wake up to. We go for reds with less blue in them and more orange because they’re happier to live with.” –William Diamond and Anthony Baratta Pictured, Ralph Lauren Paint‘s Lattice Red IB57

MIDDLE ROW:

4. “It’s a true, deep red. I like the temperature of it: it’s a bit cooler. But a little red goes a long way. It’s good in areas where you don’t spend much time or in boring areas that need a strong burst of color.” –Roderick Shade Pictured, Benjamin Moore‘s Million Dollar Red 2003-10

5. Benjamin Moore‘s Redstone was used in Eldon Wong’s cupboard.

6. “All my life I’ve pursued the perfect red. I can never get painters to mix it for me. It’s exactly as if I’d said “I want Rococo with a spot of Gothic in it and a bit of Buddhist temple” — they have no idea what I’m talking about.” –Diana Vreeland Pictured, Benjamin Moore‘s Red 2000-10

BOTTOM ROW:

7. “Red is the color of excitement, and I tend to go for corally orange reds. With red, you know you’ve arrived and you glance in the mirror and realize how great you look and breeze right in.” –Keith Irvine Pictured, Benjamin Moore‘s Salsa 2009-20

8.”I prefer the warm, vibrant reds to the historic reds, which are beautiful but sedate. This is a daring red, a real fire engine red. It has a playfulness that reminds me of a little red schoolhouse.” –Ruthie Sommers Pictured, Fine Paints of Europe‘s Dutchlac Brilliant Tulip Red W1001B-M

9.”Lately I’m on this anti-completely-neutral kick. You have to have some seasoning in your rooms. Sangria is good, universal-donor red — not too blue, not too orange, not too dark.” –Elissa Cullman Pictured, Benjamin Moore‘s Sangria 2006-20

Frijsenborg Castle

Frijsenborg Castle

Celerie Kembles Advice House-Beautiful-House Beautiful Color Celerie Kemble’s Advice

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Guides - Nordic Decorating

Swedish Decorating Inspirations In Yellow, Ivory And Beige- 50+ Pictures

D.Larsson Swedish Antiques

D.Larsson Swedish Antiques

The Swedish style is a bright decorating style, in which presents a peaceful, liveable, serene place to live in.  The lighter interior looks have always been popular in the Nordic countries for centuries.  Pale wall colors, lighter painted furniture, throws and bedding in white, or pastels tended to give the illusion of light, which was particularly welcoming through Sweden’s long winter evenings.

1.  Lighter Painted Walls Allow You To Do More With Your Interior

To achieve the Swedish style, consider starting with the foundational walls of your room in a lighter paint tone.  Gray, or tones of light green, blue or natural creamy white will complement accessories in touches of warm yellow and gold.  Using a neutral base color such as ivory, beige, or light gray will complement additional colors added into the room.  Consider soft pink, bold red, for stenciling ribbons, scrolls and gatherings of wheat upon walls.

Like your walls and draperies, keep your floors light and bright.  Consider blonde or pale woods, or a lighter hued paint for your floors. If you want to jazz things up, stencil or paint pale designs on the floor’s surface.

  • Thinking About Painting Your Floor? Consider These 10 Tips First…. Hersite Blog
  • Polish Your Concrete To Make It Look Like Marble- Hersite Blog

Floor coverings can make all the difference in a room.  Natural fiber rugs, such as berber, jute, sisal rugs are natural and a neutral covering that works with any style and decor choice.

An alternative to painted walls is wallpaper patterns. If you consider wallpaper, work with a  neo-classic style with soft colors on a white background. Floral prints, swags, ribbons and bows are a common theme that runs through Gustavian style. A touch of gold gilding is important as an accent, and adds the prestige into your rooms.

  • 6 Stencils I have My Eye On- Which One Is Your Favorite? – Hersite Blog
  • Buy Floral, Chintz, And Gustavian Wallpaper and Fabrics From My Friend Paula At Lily Oake

2. Pair a Settee At One Side Of Your Dining Table

While many of us may not have the room, a settee at the dining table really looks fabulous if you can pull it off.  My friend Stephanie Tuliglowski went for a French Provence look in her house, and paired a large farmhouse table with a French settee.  In this photo, you can see she left the settee in it’s natural wood, instead of painting it. It gives the room so much more of a natural, cozy feel.

  • Picture 1– Pillows at the table
  • Picture 2– Louis XV chairs on one side, and settee on the other

The “Köksoffa” has been known as the kitchen sofa, and originates from the 1700’s. The idea behind this sofa was it could be used during the day, and then pulled out at night to be used as a bed.  Rooms were smaller, and often pieces were created for multi purposes.  The sofas were often painted and antique versions often can be seen having a dark patina from the paint aging over time.

3. Rotate Your Collections Through Out The Year

The Nordic style of decorating has always been one to border on minimalism.   Invest in pieces that function as storage solutions which can hide away your belongings, while at the same time look decorative.

  • Leave Armoire Doors Open- If you have a armoire, paint the inside a different color than the outside, and leave the doors open to display what you have.
  • Paint The Inside Of Your Cabinets, Or Bookcases In A Different Color– Spice up your collections by painting the inside of your drawers, or cabinets in a color that will pop.  If you are decorating around the creams, consider a darker buff, vanilla, apricot, or saffron for the inside.
  • Rotate Your Decorative Accessories through out the year, and mount more of your collections on the wall. If you do collect, consider keeping only the best of what you already own, and discard the rest.  Use lighting to draw attention to those items that you want to be seen.
  • Group Decorative Items In Pairs, or Collections. Gather your pictures in one spot, and create a collection by using the same frames.  Simplify your pictures by working in black and white, or sepia tones.  Work with cabinets, bookcases, or wall shelving to give your collections a really upscale look.
  • Store Collections In Boxes Which Can Be Painted– In this photo, you can see a picture of Eric Pike’s home office, where magazine boxes, and storage boxes look sophisticated on shelves.

26 Ways To Organize With Shoe Boxes- Kids Room Decor

4. Push Chairs And Side Tables Against The Walls

This is a classic Swedish look that is found in most historical Nordic homes.  Chairs and tables were pushed against the wall, creating more space in a room.  Furniture was positioned in the center of the room, allowing more room between furniture pieces.  Position one chair by itself, or gather your chairs in sets of threes.

5. Redesign Your Closet Space

As soon as my husband and I moved into our new home, I wanted to make the best use of our closet space. You can see some of my closet makeovers at my new website Hersite.

  •  My Summer Projects, My Garage Makeover-Hersite

Shelving brackets were bought from Home Depot, and wood shelves, which were painted were added to our closets.  Paint makes everything so much more inviting.

Why NOT make use of the wall space all the way up to the ceiling? Instead of having one rod in your closet, break the wall up so you can have two rods. Show off those expensive heels you only wear once a year, and coordinate your wardrobe into color schemes.  Your closets can look like they were professionally designed.

In this picture of Eric Pike’s home, he transforms an ordinary closet into a beautiful display for his tableware.  The interior of the closet is painted in a darker gray, and collections are grouped together.

French Wall Sconces

French Wall Sconces On Ebay

6. Work With Neoclassical Lamps And Mount Wall Sconces For The Classic Swedish Look

Wall sconces can look very romantic in the Swedish setting.  We should light candles more often, and working with candles on the wall, than on the table is the safer route to prevent fires from happening.

Decide if you want something simple or ornate in style for wall sconces. Today you can purchase an ornate set of French wall sconces for around $90 dollars on Ebay. Place a set of two sconces on either side of a mirror or painting.

Plain table lamps can be dressed up by recovering plain shades.  Purchase simple barrel shades from your local big box store, and re-cover them with the same upholstery material as your accent chairs and slipcovers.  Chandeliers and lamps add light to an already bright interior.

Use mirrors to create the illusion of even more open space and to reflect light, and use light colored accents like blue and white china, silver and glass to add shine and style.

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Guides - Swedish Designers

Designer Martha Angus Loves Gustavian Style

Swedish Antiques Swedish Portrait -the figure of noble women, in courtdress, within giltwood frame

The Style Saloniste posted an interview with designer Martha Angus, founder of the San Francisco-based firm, Martha Angus Inc. about her favorite style and paint colors.  It turns out she loves the Gustavian Swedish styles, and gives out the paint colors she uses most often in her designs.

Q- Favorite design period?

Martha Angus: Gustavian. It’s late eighteenth-century, and feels like Louis XVI but not as grandiose. In addition, I love the painted finishes typical of the period, often in gray. Swedish design can offer a type of low-key opulence. During the Gustavian period, a light wash of paint in earth colors of light blue, gray, green and yellow was used instead of gilding. The prices of antiques vary, depending on the object. They’re now very collectible, so prices are rising fast. I’ve seen some fantastic examples at the Marche Paul-Bert at the Paris flea market, Clignancourt.

My favorite local source for Gustavian furniture is Therien & Company in Los Angeles (as well as the Therien & Co 20th-century collection at their gallery in San Francisco.)

Q: Your most versatile paint color?

Martha Angus: It’s Benjamin Moore  and my special mix of half Decorator White mixed with half Linen. Works every time.

The finest paints are those designed by Donald Kaufman  in New York. They are all elegant and multi-dimension and complex, so you could pick one with your eyes closed.

I’m a big fan of Farrow & Ball, colors: Parma Gray, Folly Green and Mouse’s Back are very individual and give rooms character.

 

Q: Which fabric could you use over and over?

MA: Heavy Belgian linen by Henry Calvin Fabrics, # 8793 “Mail Bag Linen” texture in natural. To the trade, Henry Calvin Fabrics, 151 Vermont Street, San Francisco, 415-565-1981. I often use antique textiles, tapestries, and pillows from Kathleen Taylor, The Lotus Collection, 445 Jackson Street, San Francisco, 415-398-8115.

Paula Caravelli Martha Angus

Paula Caravelli & Martha Angus- sceneinny.com

Home Dit also features an interview with Martha Angus, where she reveals more of her love for French and Gustavian antiques.

Q: Tell us about the moment when you decided to follow a career in the field of interior design.

Martha Angus: I always felt like an artist growing up. I moved around constantly for my father’s career, so the whole idea of ‘home’, a place where you feel comfortable and can settle into, is the most important thing in the world to me. When I was a child, I absolutely fell in love with color, especially coloring books. I became so passionate about art and color, I thought “Oh, wow!” this is all I ever want to do, which led me to
eventually study painting at Carnegie Mellon and the Ecole des Beaux Arts de Paris.

When I came out of college the options for a female artist were quite limited yet art has always been a driving force in my career. As a young artist fresh out of school, I got my start as a fashion illustrator and textile designer in New York City. That eventually led to store design and high-end residential design. My work and interests are always evolving but I never abandoned my first love –painting and contemporary art. To this day, art is the most important feature in my designs. It’s usually the first thing I discuss when starting a new project.

Q:Where do you look for an obscure source of inspiration?

Martha Angus: I find inspiration in my usual trips to the Paris flea markets. I believe my ideal shop would include that sense of history, unstated elegance and fun that the French do so well. As in my projects, my ideal shop would include timeless and elegant items such a Gustavian settee or a weathered neoclassical zinc planter paired with a super chic custom designed plexi-glass bench upholstered in zebra silk-screen hide and bold Ellworth Kelly prints.

Q:What would be your recommendation for “what to do first” in a decorating project?

Martha Angus: Start with a good floor plan and remember that upholstery is the key. High quality upholstery can go a long way. Not only is it a good investment but it also brings a sense of tailoring and richness that other items can’t. Once the art and essential furniture items have been selected, accessorizing can do wonders. Scented candles and cashmere throws add a sense of luxury to a room without a significant investment. I always include small trays and boxes that bring the project down to a warm and livable level.

I always say that art is the most important aspect of a space, aside from the people collecting it. I live for bold, statement art. High art should not be treated as a mere decorative item that accessorizes a room, but almost a living element of the space – something with a very distinct personality.

Q: What’s your current paint color obsession?

Martha Angus: I believe in airy, fresh spaces that usually call for very subtle neutrals so that I can come in later and play with fun splashes of color in art, fabrics or accessories. When it comes to paint I find myself constantly going back to some Farrow and Ball colors precisely because they have that timeless elegance that relates so well with my philosophy. Some of my favorites are Middleton Pink and Arsenic.Throughout my career I have always recommended Benjamin Moore’s decorator’s white for its freshness and vibrancy. I have a life-long love affair with textiles of every kind. In fact my career started in New York City as a textile designer and fashion illustrator. I believe David Hicks style fabrics are classic and always so chic.

Q : What advice do you have for someone with a new house to decorate and perhaps a limited budget?

Martha Angus: Small changes can go a long way. I also advise my team to use color as envelopes for a room. Soft neutrals like French Gray or even Decorator’s White are great colors for walls, ceilings and trim because they can give an atmospheric look to a room and make it timeless, standing the test of time and whimsy trends. The one item I would recommend investing in is good upholstery pieces. The big items should also be covered in a neutral material that can stand the test of time. It will not only look good but will wear well for many years to come.

 

 

Swedish Antiques- Gustavian Chairs

Pair of Swedish Late Gustavian Side Chairs- the rectangular upholstered crest rail within carved and moulded frame on foliate carved spindle supports, over upholstered seat with carved and moulded apron flanked by rosette filled blocks, raised on foliate carved round section tapering legs ending in toupee feet

San Francisco Office

San Francisco Office -Martha Angus

Martha Angus

Martha Angus

Swedish Neoclassical Side Chair The Neoclassical period replaced the Rococo influences during the second half of the eighteenth century. Cabinet makers responded to the excavation of Herculaneum and Pompeii with great fervor, eliminating the robust naturalistic forms of the Rococo in favor of delicate colors and a less exaggerated line. The Klismos, the original antique form of this chair, was brought to light late in the Neoclassical period in Sweden as well as other countries. The Gustavian, another name for this chair, was developed during the reign of Gustavian III who seized power in 1771. This chair is believed to have been made for the marvelous pavilion at Haga, the summer home of Swedish royalty

Roman Neoclassical Chairs

Pair of Roman Neoclassic Painted And Parcel Gilt Armchairs with horseshoe shaped foliate carved back with downswept arms, joined to Greek key carved seat and raised on tapering fluted legs

 Swedish Antiques

Pair Of Swedish Baroque Giltwood Candlesticks each of compound foliate and gadrooned tripartite form rising to flaring foliate sheathed bobeche, raised on conforming scrolling volute base, centering ribboned and foliate swagged cabochon medallion and ending in lion paw feet; now electrified and fitted with beeswax candle and calf skin shade

Swedish Antiques

Swedish Neoclassic Painted Armchair- the upholstered back within conforming moulded and carved flaring frame, over urn shaped carved spindles joined by down swept supports to upholstered seat, raised on stylized foliate carved swelling round section legs ending in brass sabots and headed by rosette filled carved corner blocks; the whole retaining original paint

Swedish Antiques

Swedish Karl Johan Mahogany Satinwood and Olivewood and Parcel Gilt Sofa Table- the rectangular top with satinwood stringing centering satinwood and olivewood inlaid central patera medallion and corresponding corners, with two drop leaves over breakfront apron incorporating single drawer, flanked by relief carved foliate volutes, on cluster columnar support in the early English taste, with molded socle and concave platform ending in foliate carved downward scrolling feet centering floral medallions

Swedish Antiques

Swedish Karl Johan Mahogany and Parcel Gilt Center Table- the oval top with reeded edge over straight conforming apron , raised on square section tapering serpentine legs headed by blocked rosettes and ending in bronze lion paw feet supported on concave sided rectangular plinth on gold ball feet

Martha Angus – Alta Plaza Residence

Martha Angus – Alta Plaza Residence

Antique Gustavian window seat with pale grey blue lightly lacquered linen Rogers Goffigon fabric.

Antique Gustavian window seat with pale grey blue lightly lacquered linen Rogers Goffigon fabric.

Martha Angus on One Kings Lane

Martha Angus – Alta Plaza Residence 2

Martha Angus – Alta Plaza Residence

Hampton Showhouse

Hampton Showhouse- Martha Angus

Hampton Showhouse

Hampton Showhouse- Martha Angus

Martha Angus – Manhattan Residence

Martha Angus – Manhattan Residence

Martha Angus – Manhattan Residence

Martha Angus – Manhattan Residence

Martha Angus – Manhattan Residence 2

Martha Angus – Manhattan Residence

Guides - Swedish Designers

Decorating Secrets- 60 Quotes From The Best Experts In Design

Gustavian Antiques

Swedish winters are long, dark and dreary, so historically Swedes have always turned to lighter interiors.  Swedish style isn’t all about the gray and the white interiors they are famous for, but many homes  feature brighter, richer colors to decorate around.

There are so many shades and tones of paint, that it can be impossible to decide on one color.  Buy sample-size colors to help you make the perfect selection.   A color can look quite different at night than the day.  We recently painted the outside of our home, and the color which looked to be a creamy yellow at night, turned green in the day.  Be sure to try your selected colors on a few different walls to determine what suits which room.  You’ll thank yourself for making this extra effort before spending $$$ on the wrong shade.

Don’t judge the room until the paint is in place, and accessories and furniture are placed.  A color which may seem to bright can be toned down by wall accessories, coordinating drapes, and art work.  Consider working with the off shades of the primary colors.  Intead of purple, consider lilac, or a raspberry tint.

Consider whether you are a warm or cool person.  I once was asked this by a hairdresser, looking to choose a shade of blonde.  I never gave it much thought before, but knowing which color you lean towards can certainly make picking colors a lot easier.  Earthy reds, dusty warm plums, and rusty golds are in the warm color range.   Silver blues, mint, and lavenders are colors which are cooler.

Advice From Pros

“Design is not just what it looks like and feels like. Design is how it works” Steve Jobs

“Green pigment was expensive in the 18th century, making it a status symbol. So it would have been appropriate for the royal governor’s house. I’ve been a curator at Colonial Williamsburg for 20 years, and when my husband and I lived in a historic house, we had similar green woodwork. It worked with every fabric I wanted to use, and it’s a great mood enhancer—chlorophyll for the spirit!” —Liza Gusler

“People think that they need to use small furniture and light colors to make a small room look big, but that’s not the case at all. Dark colors and just a few pieces of large-scale furniture, with the appropriate lighting and accessories, can give a room a larger, more luxurious feel.” —Mona Hajj

“Everything else in my house is off-white and grey, and I just had to have a break from that. I was looking at my pond, which is this murky shade of acid green, and I thought, ‘I’ll do that in high gloss to make it even more watery and translucent.’ It’s strange, but I love it.” —Stephen Sills

“Luxury must be comfortable, otherwise it is not luxury.” – Coco Chanel

“While looking at one of my first New York apartments, David Hicks told me diplomatically,’Dear boy, if you’re going to paint the walls white, you need art.'” Peter Dunham

“The only time white curtain lining should be used is with white curtains- J Randall Powers

“Use the precious for everyday purposes. We’ll rummage through clients closets and find loads of precious hand-me-downs like porcelain vases and crystal that are a bit out of vogue. We’ll use them for completely ordinary purposes – a case becomes a chic pencil holder, a crystal bowl holds makeup brushes. Turn the ordinary into a special moment” Benjamin Dhong

“I learned that passion about objects and furnishings makes for fearless decorators—and that if you are comfortable in your home, everyone else will be too. That sense of authenticity is what gives a home its soul.”- Courtnay Daniels Haden

“The most elegant interiors are just slightly tatty.” – David Netto

“Playing it safe. Instead, put a large-scale printed fabric or wallpaper on the walls and even the ceiling. It’s easier, safer, and less expensive to be dramatic in a small space. You might get tired of a bold print in the main living area, but it can make a smaller, less-used room an exciting space to spend time.” —Victoria Neale

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Guides - Touring The Nordic Countries

A Look Behind Sturehov Manor House In Botkyrka, Sweden

Sturehov or Sturehof (also spelled Sturehov castle) is a manor house in Botkyrka, Sweden. Sturehov manor is located at Rödstensfjärden, about 3 kilometers west of the old Norsborg.

The name Sturehof, originates from the oldest known individual owner, Svante Sture Stenson whom was killed by King Erik XIV in connection with the so-called Sture murders at Uppsala Castle.  His descendants owned the farm for more than half a century. The farm was later purchased in 1778 by Gustaf II’s “Finance”, Baron Johan Liljencrantz, whom acquired the property in 1778 as a summer residence.  They say a fire burned down the main building, and only the two wings from the 1600s remained standing.  It was then that architect Carl Fredrik Adelcrantz draw up plans for a new main building. Adelcrantz was famous architect during the time known for his work with the Opera House in Stockholm. The two remaining wings were then modernized with mansard roof, and an update to the exterior paint color was changed from a country red to a prestigious white.

Also See -Swedish Interiors: The Chinese Pavilion

Today visitors can enjoy an afternoon out at Sturhov, where they also have a year around café called Voltaire & Vänner (Voltaire & Friends).  Take a look inside the cafe at The World According To Pia Blog

Sturehof is regarded as one of the country’s finest example in the Gustavian decorating style. While a number of skilled craftsmen worked on the house, Interior Designer Louis Masreliez and architect Carl Fredrik Adelcrantz were to be considered the best in design and architecture of their time.

Swedish Tile Stoves

Johan Liljencrantz owner of the newly constructed main building at Sturehof was also the owner of the famous Marieberg factory.  Today there is a very limited amount of authentic Marieberg Kakelugnar stoves known to be around today.   The stoves that were located differ from the usual 1700s ovens by its white base color, shiny glaze and their bright colors.  Sturehov houses the country’s largest collection of Marieberg stoves, a total of 17 pieces. The most magnificent of all the stoves is the “Liljecrantz ‘Fireplace’. It is located in the room upstairs, which was supposed to be Liljecrantz ‘bedroom.   The tiled stove was  so famous that it was pictured on a Swedish postage stamp.  After Liljencrantz’s first wife, Ottiliana, died in 1788 he built Norsborgs mansion, and settled with his new wife, Eleanor.

The Röhsska Museum featured this interior which was drawn by architect Carl Fredrik Adelcrantz (1716–1796), who was a central figure in 18th century architecture and art history.

The Röhsska Museum featured an exibit called- The Masreliez room whom was named after the artist and decorator Louis Masreliez (1748-1810), who was Gustav III’s architect. The mural was executed by Louis Masreliez in the late Gustavian (Pompeian) style. Masreliez had studied in Rome for a longer period, and seen and been inspired by the ongoing excavations of antiquity’s Pompei. The wallcovering is painted in oil on fabric.


 A late Gustavian late 18th Century console table.

Design by Louis Masreliez and executed by Jean Baptist Masreliez.

Picture Credits

-Thor-Leif Fogelberg- Photo’s of Sturehov Castle- PBASE

Additional Links & Pictures

-Sturehof Castle- View from Mälaren- Flicker

-Sturehof Castle- Close Up View Of Exterior – Flicker

-Sturehov Slott- Wikipedia

-Research Symposium:  Louis Masreliez National Museum

-A Stunning Picture of Sturehov in the winter

 

Sturehov Castle- Swedish Tiled Stove From Michael Perlmutter Photography

Swedish Interior With A Tiled Wood Stove Sturehofs Slott- boibotkyrka.s

Photo By by RRRmikko For Panoramio.com

Heli Lehtonen Fashion Sets on Flicker

Here we see the chairs with modern slipcovers keeping with the Gustavian look.

Thor-Leif Fogelberg- pbase

Gustavian Interiors- Swedish Tiled Stove From Michael Perlmutter Photography

Also Featured in Neoclassicism In The North

The Green Room Wikipedia

The Green Room Wikipedia

Central Room – Wikipedia

Cafe?  Wikipedia

Close Up Look At This Sensational Tile Stove- www.alltomkakelugnar.se

This beautiful stove is in Baroness large bedroom on Sturehof Castle. In the 1700s, considered the bedrooms not particularly private, but I also perform the function of living.

Among the first thing that visitors encounter when going into the company over the floor at Sturehof Castle is the octagonal drawing room and its fireplace in column style. It is a style formation that tries to mimic the columns that held up the ancient temples. This on Srurehof is typical in that it had a square base with a cylindrical top, and tight spot that was tromp l’oeil painted. Tromp l’oeil was very modern at the time and was to be atop the tiles glaze painted decoration that would look as three-dimensional as possible to simulate the ribs and three-dimensional details. – Information From alltomkakelugnar.se

Thor-Leif Fogelberg- pbase

Sturehofs Castle – cotedetexas.blogspot.com

Sturehof Castle Interior –Wikipedia

Another Spectacular Kakelugnar Stove

 

Model Sara Hammarbäck Featured At Sturehofs Slott.-

Heli Lehtonen Fashion Sets on Flicker

Visit Stockholm Blog

The Gustavian Style Of Swedish Interior Designer Louis Masreliez

Thor-Leif Fogelberg- pbase

Liljencrantz ‘Fireplace- Wikipedia

Sturehov Castle Featured in The Swedish Room by Lars Sjöberg, Ursula Sjöberg, Ingalill Snitt,

Previewed by Google books here

Sturehov Castle Featured in The Swedish Room by Lars Sjöberg, Ursula Sjöberg, Ingalill Snitt,

Previewed by Google books here

Guides - Touring The Nordic Countries

Louis Masreliez- The Designer Behind Gustav III’s Pavilion At Haga Park

Masreliez was born in Paris and began his education at Ritakademien, which was a drawing academy at the youthful age of 10.  In 1769, Masreliez was given a study grant which allowed him the opportunity to travel to Paris and Bologna to study.  When he left Bologna in 1773, he decided to stay in Paris for eight years,where he then returned to Sweden in 1782 to become a commissioner of the Royal Swedish Academy of Arts.  He advanced the following year, when he was made a professor of art history.  Then in 1805, he bacame the director of the Academy.

He was responsible for the interior of Gustav III’s Pavilion at Haga Park.  In addition he also was responsible for the interior of Tullgarn Palace. Masreliez is remembered for its interior decorations at Haga, Drottningholm, Stockholm Palace in the classical Pompeian style. Masreliez was inspired by the excavations of Pompeii and Herculaneum, which could be seen in his interior design.

The pictures below in this post are located in Salviigränd, which is an alley in Gamla stan, old town in central Stockholm.  On the second floor -Number 1, (the only building in that block not part of the Parliament administration), is a suite of rooms created by Louis Masreliez for the bachelor Wilhelm Schwardz in 1795. Dressed up in pastel, grey, and gold, the elegant Gustavian Classicism interiors features lighted candles, cut-glass chandeliers, taffeta curtains, and friezes and medallions.

A special thanks is to be given to A Connoisseurs Quest Blog for the pictures of Wilhelm Schwardz’s Home in Stockholm- See the entire post “A Peek at the Usually Hard to See House by The Gustavian Designer Masreliez in Gamla Stan, Stockholm”  

One can see parallels between the Gamla Stan and Sturehov, particularly in the placement of furniture. Larger round tables serve as focus points in both the Gamla Stan and Sturehov.  Both of the Kakelugnar stoves also have classical columns which make the base of the stove.

We are happy to discover this designer with you….!

Masreliez House, Stockholm

Masreliez House, Stockholm

Masreliez House, Stockholm

Masreliez House, Stockholm

Masreliez House, Stockholm

Masreliez House, Stockholm

Guides - Nordic Decorating

Gustavian Style: Warm Or Cool Tones?

Swedish Gustavian Pine Benches

Gustavian style is all about painted surfaces, intricate wood carvings, distressed wood flooring, and beautiful family heirloom furniture.   Gray painted furniture are commonly associated with Swedish interiors.  Gray can be both a cold and warm color depending on the hue of the paint.  When gray is mixed with yellow, it can take on a color that is more warm, where as mixed with purple, or blue, it can appear on the colder tones.  Gray is a staple color in old world Swedish homes, and will work with any color palette.  Here are a couple examples of cool and warm color tones:

Cool Tone Examples: 

The cool color tones can be very attractive and fresh.   Light blue can open up the home, and allow it to appear more spacious.

1. As you can see this home has light blue painted walls, and furniture which is painted in the exact same color tones.  Furniture is accented in gold, and other pieces are painted in white.

2. This ad for Tara Shaw is based on the cool color tones.  A very light blue floor, and a gray wall with undertones of blue are the perfect back drop for this antique piece of furniture painted in blue-gray.  As you can see white washed pine furniture adds a touch of wood, and works with the color palette.  See more of the furniture here

Some Tips For Cool Interiors :

– Use several glazes when washing your furniture.  Look at the color depth with these chairs- Pair of 18th C. Rococo Gustavian side chairs in the original paint From Marston Luce Antiques.  The color is very rich and dark, and would work perfectly with a room based in the lighter blue tones.

– Paint your walls a very light blue and accent with punchy shades of blue such as seen in the table cloth.  Add in lots of white painted accent pieces.

– A blue painted wall can go a long way to create a cool interior. Here we see a combination of blue gray and white.

– Brighter whites are used in cooler tones, while beige color washes and upholstery are used for warmer palettes.

Warm Tone Examples:

Warmer tones tend to feature traces of yellow, and brown in the swatches.  A warmer palette will make your home appear to be warmer in the winter than a room that is painted in a light shade of blue.  Rich yellows work so beautifully with gold, and brass.

This ad for Horchow features an interior bathed in the warmer tones of brown.  Wood is washed with brown or beige paint allowing the natural wood to show through.

–Olivier & Chantal’s French Home is a great example of a warm color palette.  The walls are painted a dark gray, and red painted furniture give an opportunity for color to be apart of this room.  Red is also a warm color, making it the perfect choice against the dark gray walls that appear in this room.  Untreated wood breaks up the painted surfaces, and allow the eye some rest.  Solid upholstery allows this home to remain uncluttered.  Simplicity, and clean looks govern the Swedish style.  See more of this home here

-This Campagne cover features a Gustavian room with lots of warm tones.  Lots of beige is used with a combination of white.  Looking closely at the furniture, painted finishes on the clock and the settee reveal exposed warm wood, with beautiful distressed white finishes. See more of this home here.

Some Tips For Warm Interiors:

1. Paint your walls yellow and combine beige and gray into the interior.  Work with darker tones instead of light paint colors.

2. Incorporate stone and concrete into a warm interior.  Display stone busts or urns on pedestals.  Consider leaving the wood raw and untouched without any polishing or lacquer.  Add in brass instead of silver.

3.  Incorporate black painted furniture into a warm decorating scheme.  Black painted furniture often looks terrific against tones of yellow.

4.  Consider also working with the darker green color palette.  Combine green upholstery with untouched pine frames, or gilt wood frames.  Work with a country theme with lots of distressed furniture, or work with brighter Kelly greens such as the colors featured on Lars Scandinavian Design Book.  As you can see the secondary color is always beige not white.