How do you turn a new-build property into a home? It’s something many of us grapple with, and a question I often get asked. Well, the subject of my latest home-tour post is a wonderful example of how to do it. Without any major decorating to do, Alison of @that.minimalhome – a South African teacher currently based in Stockholm – set about personalising her just-finished apartment with carefully chosen furniture and accessories. Throughout, she focused primarily on how she wanted the space to feel, using soft textures, neutral colours and elegant materials to transform the empty shell into a calm, cosy haven which she loves to return to at the end of each day. What’s more, she avoided being led by trends or other people’s opinions, instead prioritising what she likes and what feels right for her – a refreshing and very inspiring approach!
Just read on to find out more about Alison’s beautiful home, her design ethos, and the fantastic story of how she came to live in Sweden in the first place…
Hi Alison! Please can you start by telling us a bit about yourself and what you do?
“I’m a 33-year-old travel addict from South Africa, and I teach fifth grade (soon to be sixth grade) at a bilingual school in Stockholm. Though I’m a teacher, I also have an insatiable love for all things interiors and photography.
“Four years ago I decided to make a change and, literally sitting blindfolded with a map in front of me, I placed my finger down and landed on Sweden. So, I packed a bag and moved there!”
Where’s your current home, and how long have you lived there?
“Two years after arriving from South Africa I bought my little apartment in Stockholm, just a 15-minute drive from the city centre. But with feet as itchy as mine, I’m likely to make another move!”
Have you made many changes since moving in?
“The apartment I bought was newly built so, other than taking an empty shell and turning it into a home, there really hasn’t been any need to make changes.”
In the main living area, Alison has mixed soothing whites and beiges with warm wood. Snuggly textiles sit alongside sleeker materials such as marble and glass, creating subtle elements of contrast, while a large rug breaks up the open-plan layout. The sofa, pendant light and mirror are from Habitat, and the round vase is by Cooee Design. A ‘Kizu’ lamp and ‘Aura’ table mirror from New Works complete the scheme.
How would you describe your interiors style?
“I seem to have comfortably adopted the Scandinavian style in terms of interiors. I love the combination of white and other neutrals coupled with warm wooden accents and softer tones, and all married to the concept of minimalism. If you were to look up the definition of ‘soft minimalism’ then that would be right up my alley!”
What does home mean to you?
“One word comes to mind: family! That’s really what home means to me. However if we’re referring to a building that we go to at the end of the day, then I have three words: calm, quiet and peaceful. Home is where I can inhale, exhale and just breath.”
Where do you find inspiration for your home?
“I find inspiration from various Instagram accounts, Pinterest and magazines, but I mainly just go with what feels good with and for me.”
Alison has used accessories to add character and warmth to the kitchen, incorporating leafy plants to offset the clean-lined units without detracting from the minimalist feel.
What’s your favourite part of your home and why?
“Honestly, I don’t have one particular part that’s my favourite. But I love the feeling I get the moment I step in through the door after a hard day at work. Being in this calm, quiet space makes my home my favourite place to be!”
And your favourite piece of furniture or accessory?
“I’ve just purchased a beautiful marble-based table. It was meant to be a bedside table but its versatility has got me placing it in different parts of the apartment. I love it! But it wouldn’t be the first item I’d grab in case of a fire – a photograph of my grandmother with my youngest brother and sister is what I treasure the most.”
Where do you like to source items for your home – any favourite brands or shops?
“Where do I start?! Now that I’ve discovered online shopping, the list is endless! My absolute favourite store was UK-based Habitat, where I purchased my couch, coffee table and mirror, as well as some other smaller details. Unfortunately they closed down here in Sweden, and I’m adapting to the world of online shopping from various outlets.”
Linen bedding and a crumpled-paper light from IKEA (no longer available) create a relaxed, cosy feel in the bedroom. By the bed is the ‘Lato’ table, designed by Luca Nichetto for &Tradition and one of Alison’s favourite buys.
Do you have any future plans for your home?
“Well, other than purchasing some proper ‘grown-up’ dining chairs, lately I’ve been thinking (seldom a good sign, as it usually involves drastic changes and copious amounts of money!) that I’d like to paint a wall in my bedroom, just to break up the white. But as you can see I’m not very brave with colour, so it might be a while before I get my painting overalls on!”
Finally, what’s your top interior-design tip?
“Go with what feels right for you! Don’t deviate from that because of the latest trend or something you saw on social media. Be true to yourself.”
Very wise advice to end on – thanks Alison!
See more of Alison’s wonderful home and photography on Instagram.
All images by @that.minimalhome
I love the interior of this apartment. Looks like a showroom you can see in IKEA!