Island of Peace, Oasis of Elegance at Heart of Stockholm

Swedish realty portals such as Skeppsholmen never fail to bring wonder and pictures of comfort before our eyes. This is also the case with this amazingly relaxed penthouse triplex, located in a historic building on Kungsholmen, an urban island of sorts, floating leisurely on Lake Mälaren, in the suburbs of the Swedish capital. Suburban as the area may be, with its ample green areas and relaxing urban landscape, the 2,500 square foot (232 square meters) home is as urbane as they come. It was renovated from the floor up in the 2010-2011 period, which saw it receive a whole new lease of life. It has preserved the original massive hardwood flooring and several wall decorations, but to this, the designers added all compact flooring and light fixtures that speak of the elegance of yore (chandeliers, candle sticks, etc.), yet display an unabashedly contemporary type of flair.

The open plan day area, with its minimalist fire place, clever lighting and ample windows is by far the home’s center piece. The decorations in lovely colors (throw pillows, rugs and the like) liven up the room and add a stratum of tongue-in-cheek humor (note the Obama embroidered pillow). The master bedroom features an interesting floor-to-ceiling window, which allows the tenants to look out into the day area, while also maintaining their privacy. Right next door, a master bathroom in slate grey tiles might have come across as small and dark, but the addition of an entire wall of mirrors enhances the sensation of ample open space. The home also features a media room with a compact wide-diagonal screen, as well as leather-clad seating, for utter comfort and a touch of classical style. Dream on of one day owning such a home, but note that this interior design gem was recently sold at an auction. Even in trying economic times, genuine quality is able to market and sell itself well.