Kati's Rustic 19th Century Log House in Iitti, Finland | Smart is Beauty

Good morning! How was your weekend? It was a bank holiday weekend here in Sweden and I spent part of it brushing up my Hygge knowledge in preparation for the filming I am doing with Carl Hansen & Søn in Denmark tomorrow and Wednesday (so exciting - I can't wait to share more info!). For those of you not familiar with the term, Hygge is a Danish word, used to acknowledge a feeling or a moment, alone or with friends which is cosy, charming and special, in a relaxed, humble way. It's a celebration of slow living and focusing on the simple things in life. I immediately thought of aspects of this log cabin in Iitti, Finland. The country house dates back to 1839 and Kati Pilli-Sihvola took on the task to lovingly restore it - being careful to maintain its original hyggeligt charm, while adding modern touches. Kati describes her style as 'country rustic minimalism' - and I feel the interior matches this perfectly! Ready to take the tour? Wool socks at the ready! 

Kati kept the original fireplace - previously used to bake and cook food - and added modern conveniences such as a range cooker and wood burning stove.

Look at that ceiling! Isn't it incredible? Kati has worked hard to restore it and it's a perfect reminder of the history of the building. 

Simple sheepskins, blankets and cushions are a hallmark of understated Scandinavian cosiness, while a vintage cabinet painted in dusty pink provides a perfect spot for bits and bobs. 

It's incredible to think this wall is almost 180 years old! 

In front of it, a basket is used to store extra blankets for when the temperatures plummet outside - or you simply feel like making things extra cosy! 

In the sitting room you can clearly see the wonderful old patina in the ceiling and also the old brick floor - combined with the darker walls, it's easy to imagine how hyggeligt it would feel in the evening under the glow of candlelight. 

Peeling paint on the 'spell' doors and a vintage leather chair adds to the rustic, relaxed vibe. 

What would a Finnish home be without a sauna? And I have to say, I've never seen one as incredible as this. It oozes old world style, and easy to envision generations before beating themselves with birch branches (a Finnish tradition) and feeling a sense of pure relaxation. Today, Kati and her family lovely to relax here.  

What a perfect tour with which to start the week! It certainly has me dreaming about pastoral life! 

For more lovely images of Kati's home take a look at her blog and instagram - they're full of inspiration. 

And here are some other Finnish home tours you might love today: 

Ilkka's charming rural retreat in Finland

Step inside Maiju's wonderful family home

A magical rustic farmhouse in rural Finland

Kaunis Suomi! Beautiful Finland! 

Wishing you a wonderful start to the week friends! 

Niki

Photography: Kati Pilli-Sihvola

PS I'm not sure if you've guessed from my recent 'country inspired' posts, but I'm feeling the pull of the countryside more and more lately. I think it's because my wonderful Father is sadly very ill (he was diagnosed with a GBM brain tumour last October). It feels ever so slightly overwhelming, and the cathartic effects of nature feel like just what I need right now - that and a trip to London to see him (yes, I see the juxtaposition right there!!)! I also want to thank you for the positive community here at My Scandinavian Home (I hope you feel the same) I love coming here each day. I have to confess I've written and re-written this paragraph a million times but I felt it was important to open up in case I suddenly disappear for a few days, or don't respond immediately to your messages. Thank you so much for your patience! Sending a 'stor kram' (big hug) today to anyone who is going through something similar or fighting their own battles. My heart goes out to you! 

Smart is Beauty

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