Ett Hem: Where Psyche and Soul Meet
Exploring the Essence of Ilse Crawford's Human-Centered Approach
We live just down the hill from the charming boutique hotel Ett Hem in Stockholm. Frequently, when experiencing my kids’ meltdowns or their flying Lego bricks, I find myself gazing out the window with longing, wishing I could teleport myself up to a quiet room in the Ilse Crawford-designed space.
If you have a strong affinity for all things Swedish or are particularly drawn to the Scandinavian aesthetic, you may find yourself familiar with numerous interviews about the hotel, to the extent that it almost feels like a recurring topic in all and every interior design magazine or lifestyle-focused blogs. I had the opportunity to work at the PR agency that managed Ett Hem’s initial launch in 2012, and witnessing the transformation from a construction site to what is now considered one of the world’s premier boutique hotels has been lovely.
Ett Hem, which means “a home” in Swedish, is exactly as cozy as every writer/editor/blogger/influencer describes it, and the atmosphere (even at the time of opening) feels like an incredibly comfortable world that has been lived in for ages.
And while most Swedes are likely to roll their eyes at this newsletter with a “not another text about Ett Hem”, I figured I’d share my musings here with those who are not so familiar, about the magical place that goes beyond aesthetics, making a strong emotional impact on every visitor. And further down, I share some items that I feel fit with that Ilse aesthetic.
Ett Hem, which began as a 12-room hotel within a 1910 townhouse, has recently expanded to the neighbouring building adding long-term stay apartments, a larger gym space and an open kitchen restaurant that can be visited by us normal folk with a reservation.
Video from Polly Brown for Ett Hem
It’s hard to pinpoint exactly what makes Ett Hem so special, but the moment you enter the space, it truly feels like a definition of its namesake. It also feels apt that owner Jeanette Mix enlisted the expertise of British designer Ilse Crawford for the project, given one of Crawford's books is titled "Home is Where the Heart Is?"
I pulled the book from my shelf just the other day when starting to think about all things Ilse. And in the introduction she writes about her human-centered approach to design that feels so in line with what she always creates:
“What do we want? We can look around and see what’s new, but today the really radical starting point is to take a look inside. What is going on in our genes, in our emotions, in our hearts? What are the building blocks of behaviour that makes us alike? What drives us as human beings? How could that affect the way we live, the way we make our homes? How does the way we make our homes affect the way we behave and feel?
How can we use this knowledge to build homes that bring out the best in us? Homes that comfort us, bring us together. Homes that resonate with our innerselves. Homes that we can inhabit rather than that inhibit us.
I became fascinated by this human-centred approach to design while editing an interior design magazine where I saw countless homes that look fantastic in photographs but felt miserable in reality. This was, I realised, because the physical, the sensual, the emotional side of design was frequently forgotten in pursuit of the visual and ostensibly function.
Today we make choices that shape our homes and thus the way we live for a myriad of reasons - few connected to the intelligence of the heart. Sofas are selected for brand, size, price and looks. But do you really want to sit on them? Time to make homes that frame the complex patterns of how we live, and yet are vital entities that give us comfort and freedom, intimacy and privacy, as well as practicality. Homes that are not artefacts but that live with those that live within. Homes that have a psyche and a soul. It is time to put the heart back at the centre of how we design our homes.”
Ett Hem is clearly imbued with this focus on designing spaces that have a psyche and a soul, evident in the thoughtful placement of every detail. And that pop of color keeps you guessing.
What defines Ett Hem in terms of interior design:
Historical Integrity:
The building has a clear reverence for its historical roots, showcasing a use of wood and paneling reminiscent of the private residences in Stockholm's "Lärkstan" area, where the hotel lies.
Cozy Atmosphere:
Throughout the hotel, a constant warmth emanates from the glow of candles and the presence of traditional Swedish stoves ("kakelugnar") and open fireplaces, creating a cozy ambiance no matter the time of day.
A mix of design:
Ilse has seamlessly mixed international modern aesthetics with vintage Scandinavian design, as well as custom-crafted furniture by Studioilse. This eclectic mix of old, new, and well-worn elements offers a refreshing departure from most impersonal hotel environments.
Natural Elements:
Sheepskin is gracefully draped chairs, benches, and sofas, in the kitchen, bedrooms and living spaces, while the inclusion of Swedish "allmoge" style introduces folk-inspired pieces of natural materials like wood, wool, and linen.
Plants, plants everywhere:
Greenery occupies every nook, reminiscent of your grandmother's apartment or an office space, yet at Ett Hem, it effortlessly contributes to the overall ambiance.
Artful balance:
The hotel boasts a playful collection of both modern and classic art, adding an artistic dimension to its character, but in some rooms the wall panels speak for themselves without a piece of art in sight.
Culinary Ceramics:
Specially designed ceramics by Birgitta Watz grace the kitchen, adding a unique and artistic touch to the culinary spaces.
Metallic mix:
A diverse array of metals, including brass and pewter (many times from Svenskt Tenn), adds a touch of sophistication to the overall decor.
Wood, of every kind:
Both aged and contemporary wood elements contribute to the authentic Nordic feel, creating a harmonious blend in the design scheme.
Colorful Harmony:
The color palette sets a calm tone, with the occasional pops of color, particularly in the vibrant hues of red and blue ( I mean look at that bathroom).
The hotel is a must visit or stay when coming to Stockholm, but even if you are unable to get a room, there is always the option to book a meal in one of their cozy spaces. The hotel maintains an air of exclusivity, shrouded in privacy. Despite being extensively featured by influencers within the Scandinavian sphere, with countless documenting their moments, hours, and overnight stays, the question of whether it remains genuinely cool and avoids being overrated lingers.
In my opinion, Ilse’s creative magic and the team at Ett Hem is what sets them apart, ensuring it still feels special no matter how many times you visit or see it on Instagram. Which is not an easy feat in a country like Sweden where people often follow trends like sheep.
The Ett Hem Kitchen:
The whole concept of Ett Hem is that it’s a home, so it has a kitchen you can stroll into anytime, to enjoy a small snack or perhaps an afternoon cake. Guests are also welcome to grab a pre-dinner drink from the honor-system cocktail cabinet in the library area before dinner, and the ingredients for your meal are surely on display in the kitchen. The new open kitchen space that acts as a restaurant for external guests in the newly renovated building brings you straight into the action, and if you stay long enough for them to almost kick you out (we may have been those guests on our last visit), you’ll even see them scrub all surfaces meticulously.
The dining spaces at Ett Hem, whether it be in the original kitchen, the orangerie, the garden or the new open restaurant-like landscape offer that cozy feel. After reading diverse interviews with Ilse, I’ve learned that she recommends opting for a narrower table than the norm, fostering a sense of closeness when dining in turn elevating the intimacy and significance of conversations. This intentional design choice enhances the communal dining experience, making every meal at Ett Hem a personal affair.
Clearly, she wants the conversations and experiences to be cherished, deep and at close range, and that little extra is what keeps us coming back.
In essence, Ett Hem embodies a perfect fusion of old-world Scandinavian charm and a modern elegance, creating an inviting and soulful space that resonates with all visitors. Whether you're able to secure a room or simply visit for a meal, Ett Hem is a must-visit when in Stockholm.
THE HOME
This cabinet, featured on the auction site Bukowskis, may not be an authentic "kakelugn" (ceramic stove, as seen in the rooms at Ett Hem); however, its design cleverly mimics the aesthetic. It brings to mind Beata Heuman's showroom at 188, where she also incorporates a comparable "fake kakelugn" to house her design samples.
This cognac leather F-444 chair is designed by Pierre Paulin for Arzxxtifort in 1962 will break my bank, but not my dreams.
Nordic Knots Grand Rug in Chestnut - From 5 950 SEK - $795
Sheepskin from Toarp Gård - You can also find quite a few on Etsy if you search “Gotland sheepskins - this one, 2700 SEK / 260$
In Ett Hem’s rooms you’ll find many small tables here and there, usually piled with books and a potted plant - This classic Svenskt Tenn Table 1058 one is the perfect size - 2848$
Ilse Crawford’s Holocene no 6 candle for Wästberg is just the right hint of brass to mix with other metals as well - 219€
My love affair with this lamp knows no bounds - we have two in our home (tip: go halogene lamp if possible, not LED) and I would love to have them as bedside lamps as well. The Lumina Daphine - approx 8000 SEK / 656€
Us Swedes love our candles, and Ett Hem, they’re burning around the clock (almost) - Here you can find an array.
A feature at Ett Hem that I love is their pile of board games in their bookshelf. It just feels so genuine and fun. Here is a sweet card deck holder that can kindly move in here at home. 1800 SEK / 200$
As Ett Hem features lots of wall paneling, these lights by Micheal Anastassiades hang here and there to add a little bit of light without taking all too much space.
THE KITCHEN
Gärsnäs “Tati” Chair by Ralf Lindeberg from the 1980s - The red color is hard to find, but Collection Apart has (hopefully still?) a pair of black laquered ones.
A lovely old allmoge table that shows you that scouring auction houses and quaint antique shops in small towns (many have Instagram accounts) across Sweden is your best bet on finding a old table à la Ilse.
I absolutely adore this salt container called “Monster Pinch” from London-based Swedish interior designer Beata Heuman - 1351 SEK / 130 $
Danish artist Louise Roe’s metal champagne coupes - 80€
Ett Hem has the loveliest thin bone china teacups and it always makes me feel extra dainty. These are from traditional porcelain factory Gustavsberg
Pallarès Kitchen Knives, Set of 3, From 2 390 SEK
Tab Napkins in linen from Society - 400 SEK
Bronze Candelabra Chandelier for Five Candles by Harjes, 1970 - €1,549.64
Stoneware pitcher - Etsy has the best ceramic and stoneware finds for cheap - 234 SEK / 25$
Everyone deserves a special tea pot - Ceramist Signe Persson-Melin created a this one called Myrten to honour Svenskt Tenn founder Estrid Ericsson. - 776$
THE BATHROOM
Libeco, The Belgian Dish Towel - Inyo - 340 SEK
Astier de Villatte Stockholm Scented Candle - 1000 SEK
Cappelen Dimyr Rug Colonnade No.09, 9920 SEK
Another auction find - because one can never have too many stools. According to me, not according to my husband.
The Clam Chair was first designed in 1944 in Copenhagen by Danish upholsterer Arnold Madsen. In 1945 Arnold founded the furniture company Madsen & Schubell together with the cabinetmaker Henry Schubell in order to produce this unique chair that became known as the “Muslingstol” or “Clam chair” due to its’ unique shape.
Bamford bodycare products smell heavenly.
Zara Home Towels - I have such a love for new white towels. But I have found that Zara Home and even Costco make great variants.
Congrats if you made it to the end of this. Happy Weekend!
xA
My soul sister! LOVED this piece.
Serendipitously, I happened to have just watched the Netflix Abstract episode on Ilse Crawford👌🏽