Get inspired by Unique Homes – Marie-Louise Sjögren
Lighting by Jean Royère, chair art déco, French folding table 19th century and candlesticks by Estrid Ericson.
Unique homes Marie-Louise Sjögren
Photography Pär Olofsson
› Sculpture by Runa Bülow-Hübe
Marie-Louise Sjögren lives with her husband and their three children in a beautiful Art Nouveau building, dating back to 1914. She describes herself as addicted to history and storytelling and has a deep passion for antiques and objects with a story to tell. This lifelong passion is reflected in her unique home in Stockholm that gracefully combines elegance with an inviting playfulness.
Tell us about your home?
Our home is a playful, warm and happy place where my husband and I live with our three little children. It’s an amazing art nouveau building from 1914 that we spent a year and a half restoring and renovating to fit our needs.
What’s your idea of a home?
My idea of a home is a happy place! Somewhere inviting, warm and beautiful, but above all cosy and practical.
” Our home is a playful, warm and happy place where my husband and I live with our three little children. It’s an amazing art nouveau building from 1914 that we spent a year and a half restoring and renovating to fit our needs. ”
› French table 19th century, Italian ceiling lamp from the 60s, daybed by Josef Frank, mirror designed by Marie-Louise Sjögren and the table lamp Taccia for Flos.
How would you describe your design aesthetic?
I would describe it as elegant and decadent, but also inviting.
Your favourite part of your home?
Ah, I think it depends on the season! In the late spring and summertime, I love to open all windows in our living room and enjoy the breeze and sun flowing in from the big park, Humlegården. I lay on the deep couch with my kids and we almost feel like we are up in the air amongst the treetops and blue sky. In the fall and winter, I prefer being at the centre of the action behind the kitchen island and enjoying the view of friends and family in the connecting lounge and bar area; I love cooking and entertaining.
In what way is your personality reflected in your home?
I would say I am reflected in many ways. I designed it and it hosts my loved ones so I did my best to make it feel warm, welcoming and fun!
What inspires you?
Travelling, movies, books, conversations with new people, conversations with old friends, great music and dancing. Inspiration is found in happy moments.
› Lighting by Jean Royere, Liljevalchs sofa and stool by Josef Frank, coffee table by Hans J. Wegner, Norwegian sports cabin chairs and rug by Märta Måås-Fjetterström. Oil painting by Gerhard Nordström.
› Armchair Aulanko by Märta Blomstedt, floor lamp and stool by Josef Frank.
Tell us about an art piece or object that means a lot to you?
I would say the oil painting “Sjöfåglar” by Swedish artist Bruno Liljefors that we bought last year. I’ve been in love with his work since I was a child and saw his similar paintings at Thielska Galleriet in Stockholm. They reminded me of my heritage and my mother’s family growing up in the Stockholm archipelago. I have this really weak spot for childhood nostalgia!
What are you looking for at auctions?
Basically, anything with the right kind of patina, shape or material. Swedish Allmoge, Swedish Grace, Art Déco but also modern design in interesting materials and shapes can be fun in the right mix and context.
› Chair ”Lovö” by Axel Einar Hjorth.
” I look for objects with the right kind of patina, shape or material – Swedish folk art, Swedish Grace, Art Déco but also modern design in interesting materials and shape can be fun in the right context ”
› Armchairs 637 Utrecht by Gerrit Rietveld. Oil painting by Ove Pihl.
› Sofa designed by Josef Frank. Hanging wall lighting by Michael Anastassiades.
› Red lacquered chair by Josef Frank, Italian mirror 40s. Dining room group by Josef Frank and carpet designed by Marie-Louise Sjögren for Vandra.
Why are you drawn to older objects?
Because I’m addicted to history and storytelling. Imagine the different rooms an old writing desk has been in and all the letters having been written on it. Or all the meals and conversations that have taken place around a 300-year-old dining table! What’s not to love about that? I fantasise a lot about all the layers of history and design contained within the objects in my home.
What was the latest thing you bought at an auction?
A large folding table from the late 18th century.
What can’t you live without?
Of course, my children and husband. The rest is, although deeply cherished, just material and replaceable. But a really dear object of mine is the large sculpture in our hallway by Runa Bülow-Hübe, who studied for Carl Milles. It's so strong and powerful.
” I would say the oil painting “Sjöfåglar” by Swedish artist Bruno Liljefors that we bought last year. I’ve been in love with his work since I was a child and saw his similar paintings at Thielska Galleriet in Stockholm. They reminded me of my heritage and my mother’s family growing up in the Stockholm archipelago. I have this really weak spot for childhood nostalgia! ”
› Swedish wall sconces, 1940s. Oil painting by Bruno Liljefors.
› Headboard, pillow and bedspread designed by Marie-Louise Sjögren. Lighting by Arne Jacobsen and mirror, 18th century.
Your top three favourite spots in Stockholm?
First I would say the art museum Thielska Galleriet on Djurgården. The setting is absolutely breathtaking with the beautiful sculpture park surrounding a villa that hosts the most amazing collection of Scandinavian National Romanticism with paintings and sculptures by Carl Larsson, Eugene Jansson and Bruno Liljefors, to mention a few. It’s the dreamiest combination of architecture, art and interior. Light, bright and yet dramatic at the same time.
Second would be the restaurant Prinsen. The atmosphere is wonderful there this time of year; I always have Biff Rydberg with a glass of red wine for lunch.
Third has to be the interior store and institution, Svenskt Tenn. A beautiful world of warm interior design that always inspires me with every visit.
What book are you reading at the moment?
Unfortunately, only bedtime stories for my children!
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