Decorating & Design

October 22, 2012

Swedish Summer Home

Missing summer already? Start thinking ahead to next year — fall is actually prime time to buy a vacation home. And while you’re at it, why not think about summering a little further afield — say, in Sweden? This charming beach property is a contemporary take on the traditional sommarstuga, perfect for a relaxing getaway. Let’s take a look inside (and out!).

Built on a peninsula in the Stockholm archipelago, the property faces southwest and gets plenty of sunlight, so you can enjoy the long Scandinavian summer days without budging from your deck. If you need a little more adventure, the city is just 40 minutes away by car or ferry.

The airy living space is anchored by a central wood-burning fireplace (with clever firewood storage underneath). I’m not usually a fan of all-white rooms, but here, the monochromatic paint job just seems to multiply the sunshine.

The main house has three bedrooms, one of which opens onto the deck. I love the peaceful taupe and white colour scheme here with that hit of seawater blue from the lamp.

If the sea is too chilly for your swimming tastes, immerse yourself in the hot tub instead — the view’s just as lovely! If you do brave the open water, warm up afterwards in the traditional sauna.

The property includes a main house, guest house and beach house, built as part of a TV program (find out more here). There’s also a long dock and a tucked-away pebble beach.

What do you think? Are you ready to start celebrating summer with a skål?

Photo credits:
1-4. P. Frederiksen, through Christie’s Real Estate
5. P. Frederiksen