Decor & Renovation
A traditional dining room with sweet Swedish style
Photography by Jens Langen
Decor & Renovation
A traditional dining room with sweet Swedish style
This entertaining hotspot makes the most of a Gustavian style esthetic.
When Kirsten and her husband, Andreas, decided to renovate their Kitchener, Ont., home's dining room, they had a clear idea of what they wanted, but they needed help with the execution. Their collection of Gustavian antiques, including a bureau, a chandelier, dining room chairs and a Mora clock, steered them in the direction of the Swedish esthetic they were drawn to, but the mock-Tudor room was at the time dark with heavy furniture and fabrics that featured a William Morris vibe. "We knew we wanted the room to be lighter in feel and inspired by Gustavian style's classic elements and pale colours," says Kirsten, "but we wanted to retain some of the formal elements we love in a dining room."
Designer Alison Habermehl was able to bring a light and airy feel to the space while giving the family the traditional eating and gathering area they desired—all while incorporating some of Andreas and Kirsten's beloved antiques. Here's how she did it.
CONSIDER YOUR COLOURS
Scandinavian style is often defined by an abundance of whites and pale wood tones, but designing in the Gustavian style requires a little more warming up. Here, silvery greys, creamy whites and hits of blue were used to create a layered space that feels less cold and more candlelit.
Photography by Jens Langen
FOSTER FAMILY TIME
The serene palette and quiet details form a gentle backdrop that allows convivial gatherings to thrive. "We wanted this room to reflect the warmth, timelessness and character suitable to the celebrations—and the quiet moments—that take place here," says Habermehl. Adds Kirsten, "It's become a sanctuary from the everyday busyness of our kitchen, and a cozy place to mark special occasions with our family."
Photography by Jens Langen
HONOUR THE HISTORY
"I was in complete agreement with the homeowners on making the most of the original leaded windows," says Habermehl. "They lend such lovely character to the space." Pretty patterned drapery draws attention to this side of the room, and hanging the curtains above the window frame adds the illusion of height.
STORE IN STYLE
The hutch, sideboard and dresser are large-scale pieces that could have overwhelmed the room, but their delicate lines keep them in check. Opting for substantial furniture works to ground the look, and as long as people can still safely move around, choices with storage capacity are just a bonus.
Photography by Jens Langen
ADD ARCHITECTURAL INTEREST
"Installing a plate rail three-quarters of the way up the wall lends interest that relates to the home's 1920s provenance," says Habermehl. Painting the bottom three-quarters white keeps the room light and bright, while using a lighter grey for the top quarter continues the Gustavian colour scheme and adds freshness.
TURN TO TEXTURE
Habermehl incorporated a variety of textures to give the room layers of depth. "We used natural and patterned cotton and linen, both matte painted and polished wood, and brass and pewter with patina," she says.
Photography by Jens Langen
FOCUS ON FRESH
Despite the inclusion of the homeowners' treasured antiques, the room feels polished and current thanks to Habermehl's skilful touch. "We wanted to make sure there was a balance of finishes to blur the lines of past and present," she says. Mingling varied surfaces and shapes offers a classic, timeless esthetic with authentic lived-in appeal.
GET THE LOOK
Maxwell & Williams Ponto dinnerware, $180/16-piece set, thebay.com. One Allium Way Atkison armchair, $870/pair, wayfair.ca. Behr Flannel Gray N520-3 paint, homedepot.ca. Dash & Albert Gradation Ticking indoor-outdoor rug, $531, annieselke.com.
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