Cozy Swedish Abode Filled with Numerous Cats
In the heart of Vaxholm, Sweden, a charming 18th-century-inspired home at livetochbygget offers a captivating tour that showcases the beauty of blending cozy intimacy with modern open-plan living. The home's standout feature, a cosy bed nook, serves as the perfect inspiration for those seeking to create a private retreat within their own open-plan spaces.
Here's a step-by-step guide on how to design a private bedroom with a classic bed nook in an open-plan setting, inspired by Marie Envik's Swedish home at livetochbygget:
### 1. Defining the Bed Nook Area
Begin by identifying a recessed or underutilized area in your open-plan layout that can naturally frame the bed. Use partial walls, built-in shelving, or a half-height partition to create a sense of enclosure without fully closing off the space. Ensure the nook is just big enough for the bed plus minimal bedside furniture, emulating that snug, classic Swedish feel.
### 2. Incorporating Classic and Timeless Elements
To bring a traditional, refined look to the bed nook, consider using classic paneling or wainscoting. Opt for a classic bed frame with clean lines or subtle curves, such as a timber or metal design that anchors the nook with understated elegance. Stick to a neutral, calm color palette, using soft whites, muted pastels, or light grays to reflect the Nordic light and simplicity.
### 3. Creating Privacy Without Full Enclosure
Install curtains or sliding panels to provide privacy when needed and open to maintain openness. Use furniture as boundaries, such as a low bookshelf, bench, or a row of plants, to define the bedroom space visually. Consider a canopy or top frame to give the nook a distinctive silhouette and intimate feel.
### 4. Maximizing Comfort and Functionality
Layer textiles, such as soft bedding, a cozy throw, and pillows in natural fabrics, to enhance warmth and comfort. Add personalized lighting, like wall sconces or adjustable reading lamps on either side of the bed, to create task lighting while adding decorative appeal. Include storage cleverly, using built-in drawers under the bed or shelves within the nook walls to keep clutter minimal.
### 5. Maintaining Flow with the Open-Plan Space
Keep sightlines open by avoiding full-height walls that block light and sight. Instead, use semi-transparent or open elements to connect to the rest of the space. Match or complement flooring, wall colours, and furniture finishes with the wider open-plan area for a cohesive look. Use rugs to define zones, with a soft area rug under the bed anchoring the nook and visually separating it from the living areas.
Marie Envik's signature style combines Scandinavian minimalism with warmth and originality. The classic bed nook is both functional and charming, using subtle architectural details and a gentle palette to create a private retreat within an open environment. Her approach emphasizes comfort, simplicity, and clever use of space—perfect for anyone wanting a tranquil bedroom spot without sacrificing an airy, connected feel.
If you'd like, feel free to reach out for a customized layout or recommendations for specific materials and furniture options to bring this style into your home! Additionally, the article mentions other inspiring tours, such as Astrid's Charming Finnish Lakehouse and a Dreamy Design-Conscious Cottage Stay in the Scottish country.
Incorporating the classic Scandinavian style of Marie Envik's home at livetochbygget, homeowners can design their own private bedroom with a charming bed nook in an open-plan setting by maximizing comfort and functionality while preserving a cohesive and connected living environment. To emulate this style, they should define the bed nook area, incorporate classic and timeless elements, create privacy without enclosing the space fully, and maintain an open flow with the rest of the home while considering lifestyle factors within the home-and-garden context.
