This month I'm reviewing Simply Scandinavian by Sara Norrman from illustrated lifestyle publishers, Ryland Peters & Small and CICO Books. Sara Norrman grew up in Stockholm, Sweden, and since moving to London, Sara has written for several publications, such as Wallpaper, Tatler, The Times and The Financial Times. Now managing editor at Living etc, she continues to spread the message about Scandinavian style. I chose to review this book as you know how much I love Scandinavian interiors!
In my opinion this is a wonderful hardbound book full of admirable, inspirational interiors. It combines beautifully styled photography with a great insight into each home, describing its design, planning and evolution - a refreshing look at eclectic Scandinavian Homes.
Simply Scandinavian contains twenty stylish homes from Sweden, Finland, Norway and Denmark. Featuring renowned Finnish chef Aki Wahlman and Swedish glass and ceramics designer Ingegard Råma,n alongside fashion designers, craftsman and antique dealers. It covers a range of light, airy gorgeous Scandinavian homes from elegant minimalist and vintage-inspired feminine to contemporary rustic.
The introduction covers what makes a home unmistakably Scandinavian, where you learn that the Scandinavians have strived for lighter, brighter homes as early as the mid 1950's when they did away with dark furniture and heavy textiles. Of course, this is due in part to the fact that many of the Scandinavian countries are in near total darkness over the winter months, and means a love of pale and muted colours can be seen in most homes.
The book chapters cover Elegant Simplicity, Pared-down Modern, Contemporary Rustic and Eclectic. Each home is presented as a case study with a short dialogue on the owner
At a recommended price of £19.99, I think it is good value for money as it offers inspiring ideas for how to find and put together furniture and accessories to create a similar look in your home. Some of the delightful homes that really caught me eye are:
The beautiful Moroccan wedding blanket on the floor and the framed snake skin shed in fashion shop owner Lars Wiberg's home.
The vintage horse on wheels, and beautiful Danish poem on the wall in stylist Nina Hartmann's House.
The whiteness of the dining room in antique dealer Anja Alfieri's home.
The heavenly deep day beds in fashion shop owner, Lars Wiberg's garden.
To summarize, Simply Scandinavian is a wonderful book full of gorgeous inspirational ideas for your home with practical ways of implementing them!
Please note that my opinions are my own and I am not paid for these reviews (apart from receiving a free book, of course!).
Have a sweet day!