Small Loft in Sweden with Unconventional Decoration

Working on transforming an old factory, workshop, or warehouse into a residential home, some architects 'clean' the building's industrial features to zero, while others aim to emphasize the loft origins of the home.

This is exactly the case of this interior. The building where this apartment is located was originally constructed in the 1920s as a cardboard factory.

Today, it is a residential building with textured facades, solid entrance doors, and a chandelier in the hallway. But the main feature here is the apartments, where three-meter-high beam ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows have been carefully preserved as true treasures.

It is not only a tribute to the industrial past. Large windows and high ceilings mask the small size of the apartment — can you believe it’s only 58 square meters?

From an apartment with such favorable features, anything can be created, but the Swedish decorators from Sundling Kickén, who worked on its design, logically developed the industrial theme.

The decorators aimed to recreate the spirit of vibrant New York lofts. However, Swedish restraint prevailed — a black-and-white palette and Scandinavian furniture clearly reflect the Nordic character of the setting.

Otherwise, all the hallmarks of a genuine loft are present. For example, the kitchen and bedroom feature original brickwork, while the living room and hallway showcase rough plastered walls. Pipes running along the ceiling are another organic touch for a loft. Plus, it's practical: pictures can be hung on the pipes, just like in art galleries.

Lighting was handled using 'exposed' light bulbs on the ceiling and minimalist floor-standing lamps. There's no need to fear lighting fixtures in a loft style — they are not the same as technical lighting, which has little to do with comfort and warmth. The light fixtures in this project, for example, feature soft dimmable glow.

Authentic vases and pots by craftswoman Brigitta Johansson played a special role in the decoration of this loft. This northern, very Swedish decor blends perfectly with brutalist surroundings. Possibly, New York decorators working with lofts should take note of this approach.

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