Undergoing a complete design evolution, we take a tour of designer Louise Liljencrantz’s latest Swedish project; a refined family apartment featuring a historic narrative.
With an unparalleled eye for detail and a strong appreciation for modernist design, Swedish furniture designer and interior designer Louise Liljencrantz of Liljencrantz Design embodies Scandinavian design. With an expanding portfolio distinguished by her sophisticated and detailed approach to design, Liljencrantz’s latest project, Strandvägen Apartment, is a celebration of honest materials and heritage all wrapped up in one.
The kitchen features the Modo Chandelier, designed by Jason Miller for Roll & Hill.
Located in a prime location in central Stockholm, this 250 square metre apartment overlooks the water and stately Royal Dramatic Theatre. The building itself is located on Strandvägen and dates back to the 1920s; a time of opulence and elegance which is captured through Liljencrantz’s uniquely modern lens. Spacious but left sorely unloved, Liljencrantz Design sensed its potential and moulded the apartment into a polished home for the family of four that enlisted the studio’s expertise.
A complete overhaul included a new spatial flow which was orientated around time spent together with private spaces for individual retreat. The curved, sculptural simplicity of the timber entrance was inspired by Japanese architecture and offers a space for pause before entering the kitchen.
Decorative, black ceramic pieces by Stockholm-based ceramist Enriqueta Cepeda are offset by the white marble sculpture by local artist Jill Höjeberg.
A straight-edged Paavo Tynell 9602 Floor Lamp and curved blue Stay sofa both from Gubi are offset by a Zanotta sofa in cream. Balancing the room is a pair of Little Petra chairs designed by Danish architect Viggo Boesen in 1938 for &Tradition.
At the client’s request, the oversized kitchen is at the very heart of this family home and has been designed with an abundance of dark walnut wood. These moody tones deliver a warm contrast to the limestone tabletop, custom-built, chocolate leather banquette and glass and brass pendant from Roll & Hill. An equally dark chevron oak floor adds to the overall feel of a sophisticated and European aesthetic while setting the tone for the remainder of the home.
The kitchen directly connects to the family’s living room and from here a private study is located on one side with the master bedroom on the opposite side. The children’s wing is also in connection with the kitchen and contains two bedrooms and their own bathroom.
The Platner Armchair, designed by Waren Platner for Knoll in the bedroom.
The bedside tables are designed by Liljencrantz Design and the understated Daphine Terra Lamps are by Lumina Italia.
The living room feels spacious, texturally rich and a true celebration of the building’s history. The original, generously-sized bay windows and opulent stone fireplace ensure a connection to the apartment’s storied past. Ample natural light filters through to highlight the harmonious blend of iconic, mid-century modern furniture pieces alongside more contemporary additions.
A straight-edged Paavo Tynell 9602 Floor Lamp and curved blue Stay sofa both from Gubi are offset by a Zanotta sofa in cream. Balancing the room is a pair of Little Petra chairs designed by Danish architect Viggo Boesen in 1938 for &Tradition. Upholstered in a deep pile, these add to the informal yet sculptural appeal. Liljencrantz has also incorporated her own pieces with the addition of a side table and coffee table from her Seed 0117 collection – a resulting collaboration with K.F.K Snickeri, Master Cabinet Makers.
The study demonstrates a more austere aesthetic. Sparingly decorated, it places a few functional, yet statement-making pieces at the forefront. A vintage desk, lamp from Artemide, floor lamp from Catellani & Smith and an EA 108 chair designed by Charles and Ray Eames all exuding a minimalist feel. An in-built cabinet by Liljencrantz Design creates a spot for the family’s prized art and objects which include pieces by Georg Jensen, Svenskt Tenn and Swedish artist Jill Höjeberg.
The master bedroom, complete with walk-in-wardrobe, feels indulgent and spacious thanks to the clever reform in volume and colour. While the floor to ceiling dark timber panelling ensures consistency, the injection of rust red, heavy draping, tactile fabric wallpaper and a dove grey upholstered chair by Warren Platner for Knoll, all create a layered Nordic retreat.
Throughout Strandvägen Apartment Liljencrantz’s inspiration has clearly been Scandinavian simplicity fused with timeless elegance. A quietly luxurious combination of dark timber tones, limestone, wallpaper and calming creams provide a soothing foundation for a curated selection of personal artwork, ceramics, lighting and furniture.
Overflowing with contrast and intrigue, Liljencrantz’s considered use of natural materiality and form are what maintain this delicate balance of approachability, sophistication and quality craftsmanship.
