That Cosy Winter Cabin Vibe

As the crisp December air settles in, there's nothing quite like transforming our homes into havens of cosiness, where the flickering lights and snug blankets create an ambiance that feels like a warm embrace. It's the end of 2023, so I'll make a bold assumption that everyone has been introduced to the Danish concept of hygge by now. Instead of writing about it, I'll just show you a few examples of what hygge looks like for me. The fact that most of us dwell in urban areas shouldn't prevent us from adopting some of that cosy winter cabin vibe in our homes. Happy semi-hibernation!

Who Would've Thought

 ...that I will feel the nudge to get back to proper blogging after more than 8 years of radio silence. Well, I do use Instagram for microblogging, but there's something about this format that I've been missing lately, I guess. The reason I kept the website was solely for archiving purposes. It's nice to look back and see what inspired me 12 years ago or how I was thinking back then. Plus, a lot of effort went into creating this little online sanctuary, so there was no real reason to get rid of it. 

Let's start this renewed journey with some moody seasonal tablescape inspiration. 

P.S. Times and trends are ever-changing, but my approach to design and the aesthetics I nurture haven't really changed much.

Contemporary Log Cabin

I never really thought about interior design of log cabins until a few years ago. In my mind they were just kitschy retreats for tourists or hunters who basically don't have a clue about aesthetics. As long as there's a big fireplace in it, everyone seems more than thrilled. But, let's forget about that for a moment and look at this Danish stunner... Now, this is how it's done! Once again, I am blown away by the immaculate incorporation of traditional elements with contemporary twist. I wouldn't mind spending the weekend here, how about you?

Source: LivingGap  Photography: Karsten Damstedt  Architecture: Jensen Kim Holst

Lundagatan's Gem

The first thing that pops into my head when I hear or read the word Lundagatan is Lisbeth Salander  (the main character from Stieg Larsson's Millennium Trilogy), of course.  For those of you who don't know, Lundagatan is a street in Stockholm's Södermalm district, mentioned many times in the best-selling novels, and this bright, airy flat is located precisely on that street.  What caught my eye? Well, mostly those unpretentious, cool details found in every room of this small apartment. (I'm beginning to think that every single person in Scandinavia is insanely stylish and clever, although I know that can't be the case.) 

Source: Fantastic Frank 

The Oyster Catcher

Here I am, sitting in my jumper, resisting the urge to turn on the heat out of principle (Way to go, September!), so I believe it's safe to say now we can get back to those monochrome, yet cozy interiors... Lately I've been attracted to all sorts of retreats, resorts and holiday homes. (That's probably the wanderlust in me talking.) This seaside cottage has already received a lot of attention this year, but it would be a shame not to feature it here because it is truly spectacular.  The Oyster Catcher is an 18th century former net loft located in the picturesque village and fishing port of Mousehole, Cornwall. Interior design is the work of photographer Paul Massey, who is also the owner of the place and the author of these serene, toned-down photographs. Oh, and if you're interested in experiencing this coastal fairytale in person, you'll be happy to know the house is available for rent!

An Oasis in Provence

What you're looking at the moment is the holiday home of fashion designer John Rocha.  The house is located in a tranquil village of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, Southeastern France. While most of the interior design didn't leave a big impression on me, the lush and secluded outdoors made my jaw drop. This reminds me... Pools shouldn't be a luxury anymore. Every new residential building, especially those in warmer climates, should have a swimming pool.  I know this is a common practice in some countries, but I believe everyone should follow their lead. Now, prepare yourself - there's going to be some serious yearning and sighing in the next few minutes, but don't feel discouraged. You don't have to be insanely rich to make your backyard a true oasis. Just think about white backdrops, greenery, decorative cushions, lanterns/candles, wooden benches... and there you have it! Your own little piece of paradise.

 

Source:  SnOOp   Photography:  Richard Powers

RoomSketcher

RoomSketcher is an interactive floor plan tool used mainly for residential designing.  The software was created in 2007, and the company's headquarters are in Norway.  The founders' philosophy is that making floor plans should be easy so everyone can do it, whether you're an amateur or a professional, and it should be fun for you and your potential clients. About a month or so, I got the opportunity to try the software myself as a VIP licensed member with 20 credits.  What exactly does that mean?  It means I can use an online drag-and-drop floor plan tool, decorate with real products from various well-known design stores, get 3D snapshots, install an iPhone, iPad and Android app, get high resolution floor plans in .pdf or .jpg, get 3D photos/high quality renderings in just minutes, as well as walkthroughs and 360 panoramic views of the space I designed.  The credits can be spent by ordering these high quality floor plans and photos (1 floor plan/photo = 1 credit), and you can always refill them.  I've been using 2D and 3D softwares for years now, so I quickly adjusted to RoomSketcher. Well, that's because most of these softwares work on the same principles, and  I would put RoomSketcher in the same category with those that are completely user-friendly.  If you're a beginner, don't worry, there are many official video tutorials on the website (and on YouTube) that will help you, but honestly, it's really simple.  The thing I like best about RoomSketcher is that renderings are high quality, and they don't take forever to render.  They may not be photorealistic, but they sure save time, and I think they are good enough for clients to be able to visualize their new home properly.  Also, all the information you need about the products used in your project is immediately cataloged in your presentation.  These are the qualities most of us living in a fast-paced environment where everyone wants everything to be done under a tight deadline appreciate.  The only thing I would like to see in the future is a frequently updated product library.  Below you can see part of my concept design project made in RoomSketcher.  It was for a client with a medium budget, contemporary and minimalistic style preference, located in Northern Italy.  If you want, you can try RoomSketcher for free or you can buy RoomSketcher Pro, which gives you even more possibilities than a VIP membership. For all the professionals out there, I would highly recommend using RoomSketcher, and for all those interior design enthusiasts, I hope this post will encourage you to test your skills and maybe even create or remodel your own space.

This is a sponsored post, but the presented work and opinions are my own.