Creating a Comfortable Home: The Key Role of Sight Lines and Axiality in Design

Designing a home that is comfortable and pleasant can seem like a daunting task, especially if you're not familiar with some of the key principles that architects and designers use to create spaces that promote well-being. One such principle is the concept of sight lines and axiality, which can play a critical role in how we experience a building.

Sight lines refer to the idea that being able to see through several rooms at the same time creates a sense of spaciousness and openness in a building. This is why architects often use the concept of the enfilade, or a group of rooms formally aligned with one another, to create a sense of flow and continuity within a space.

Axiality takes this idea a step further, suggesting that the longer the sight line alignment, the better the design. This is because an axis, an imaginary line drawn between two points that run through two or more rooms, gives the observer a sense of greater context and helps to create a more harmonious overall experience.

While these concepts may seem abstract, they can have a significant impact on how we perceive and interact with our homes. By paying attention to sight lines and axiality, we can create spaces that feel more open and welcoming, and that promote a sense of well-being and comfort.

To put these principles into practice, there are a few things to think about. First, take a look at the layout of your home and consider which rooms are visible from the entryway. This will help you identify key sight lines and plan your design accordingly.

Next, think about which rooms you have to pass through to get to other areas of the house. Are there any adjoining rooms with doors that are usually left open? By considering these factors, you can create a more cohesive and harmonious overall design.

Finally, pay attention to external objects that are in your lines of sight, such as trees, buildings, or other landmarks. These elements can help you choose colors and make other design decisions that complement the surrounding environment and create a sense of continuity between indoor and outdoor spaces.

By taking the time to think about sight lines and axiality, you can create a home that is not only functional and practical, but also beautiful, welcoming, and comfortable. So take out a copy of your floor plan and start drawing those sight lines – you might be surprised at how much of a difference it can make!

Inside the 2010s: Celebrating Individualism and Unique Home Design Trends

*Ericsson Building from 2010. Image from* *Blueboxcooling.com*

Step into the world of the 2010s where individualism was celebrated and personal style was king. The exterior of houses in this era saw the rise of cube shapes with white, black, or gray facades. Large detached houses with terraces and semi-detached properties inspired by New England architecture were popular, with teak wood paneling or brushed concrete used for the finishing touches.

The roofs of these homes often featured gable roofs or open-beam ceilings, with metal roofing on verandas and sometimes with dormer windows and cross gables. Retro muntins and window awnings added character to the asymmetrical positioning of windows, while the outside doors embraced rustic country house inspiration.

*Båthusparken in Stockholm. Image from* *vaxer.stockhom*

Inside, wooden, parquet, and concrete floors were the norm, with simpler ways of laying herringbone parquet introduced. Moroccan and patterned floor tiles were also popular, along with long wooden floorboards of Douglas fir.

Flush or Shaker-inspired doors with prominent frames were the go-to for interior doors, with a wide range of handles and fittings in various metals and leather. Brick-built fireplaces and stove units with single-pane glass fronts or steel stove units were favored, and even chimney-free, bioethanol stoves in traditional or futuristic forms made an appearance.

Patterned wallpapers or painted gray or beige walls were the backdrop for sofas with linen and velvet covers, covered headboards, and furniture made from marble, brass, copper, wood, and leather. Retro design and new interpretations of older models were all the rage, with pedestals and sculptures and pretty accessories with strong character adding the finishing touches.

In the bathroom, drawer-shaped sinks, wall-mounted or on slim, lacquered metal legs were popular, along with flush or patterned frontages of lacquered MDF. Porcelain sinks on shelves and marble countertops were also on-trend, along with slim wall mirrors with integrated LED lighting and bespoke floor drains.

Gray kitchens with an absence of wall cupboards - sometimes with open shelving - were favored, with a wide variety of fittings, and brass taps and details added the perfect finishing touches.

In the 2010s, personal style and individualism were celebrated, and this was reflected in the home design trends of the era. From the cube-shaped facades to the retro muntins and window awnings, to the wooden and parquet floors and furniture made from marble, brass, copper, wood, and leather, this decade's home design style was truly unique and memorable.

Discover the Neo-Modernism Style: A Minimalist, Natural, and Inviting Look into the 2000s Architecture and Interior Design

*Turning Torso in Malmo, Sweden. Image from* *Visitskane.se*

The 2000s, also known as the new millennium, was a time of great change and progress in many aspects of life. The architecture and interior design of this era were no exception, and the neo-modernism style emerged as a popular trend.

One notable feature of neo-modernism is its exterior design. The facade typically consists of flat, thin plaster painted with silicone masonry paint, and features horizontal tongue-and-groove and oiled hardwood. The roof slopes away from the entrance side of the house, with untreated zinc sheets. Windows are factory-coated aluminum frames, with no surrounds and in the same plane as the facade. Outside doors are grooved hardwood with a round or oblong window. Large wooden decks are also a common feature.

Inside, neo-modernism is characterized by an open floor plan, simple lines, large panorama windows, and a roof with a shallow slope. Wooden and parquet floors are common, and glazed doors with birch or varnished finishes are used for interior doors. Door handles are typically brushed steel with separate key plates. Brick-built fireplaces and stove units with single-pane glass fronts are popular, and wallpapered feature walls in colors like latte, beige, and light brown are common. Spotlights are often inset in the ceiling for lighting.

Furniture in the neo-modernism style is light and fresh, with a focus on the New Nordic design movement. Many new start-ups, such as Tradition, Muuto, HAY, Normann Copenhagen, and Ferm Living, emerged during this era, bringing a new era for Danish design in the mid-price range. Light-color woods, furniture with powder-coated detail, matte surfaces, and furniture with hourglass shapes are common. Living room furniture and divan sofas with firm backs and plump arms, as well as playful shapes, are also popular. Woven plastic mats, forerunners of Pappelina rugs, are often used.

In the bathroom, mosaic pillars in the shower, wall-mounted toilets, rainfall showerheads, floor heating, and heated towel rails are common features. High-gloss cupboard doors, work surfaces in durable composites, stainless-steel appliances, and glass and wallpaper behind glass are typical in the kitchen.

Overall, the neo-modernism style of the 2000s is characterized by its sleek and minimalist design, with a focus on natural materials and simplicity. While it may not be as ornate as some other styles, its clean lines and open spaces create a welcoming and inviting atmosphere in any home.

Design Time Warp: Take a Nostalgic Trip to the Eclectic 1990s Home Decor Style!

The 1990s was a decade of transition, as people were moving away from the excessive design of the 1980s and into a more understated approach. The design style of this decade was known as Neo-modernism or Mixed Style, which blended various styles from the past with modern elements.

Exterior Design:

The exterior design of homes in the 1990s was characterized by a mix of traditional and modern elements. Some of the popular features include

Facade: Wooden panels inspired by the 1890s were a popular choice for the exterior of homes.
Roof: Traditional pantiles or metal roofing was commonly used.
Windows: Wooden windows with artificial sash bars on the glass were popular. Ornate bargeboards were also commonly used.
Outside door: Weatherproof uPVC doors were a popular choice for the front door.
Typical period details: Prominent corner boards, panel joints covered by moldings, frontispieces, and gables with decorative woodwork were common.

Interior Design:

The interior design of homes in the 1990s was characterized by a mix of traditional and modern elements. Some of the popular features include

Floors: Engineered parquet flooring of pine, birch, or redwoods such as cherry or stained oak was a popular choice.
Interior doors: Form-pressed doors with rail frames and flush doors with rounded windows were commonly used.
Door handles: Antique-style brass with porcelain handles was a popular choice.
Fireplaces: Glass-fronted stoves on glass floor plates were commonly used.
Wallpaper: Sponge-painted walls, wallpapers with brushstroke patterns, and wallpaper edging with fruit motifs were popular. The popular colors were ultramarine, English red, yellow ocher, terra-cotta, and Tricia Guild designs.
Furniture: Tubular steel with stretched leather seats, glass display cases and cabinets with small drawers, units for stereo and home electronics such as VHS and CD players, beanbags, table lamps with patterned or pleated fabric shades, accessories such as gilded sun mirrors and wrought-iron candlesticks, and dried and everlasting flowers were popular.
Bathroom: Decorative tiles and colored waterproof linings were commonly used. Toward the end of the decade, tiled feature walls in nonmatching colors became popular.
Kitchen: Oak cupboard doors, colored tiles, tiled mosaic, or an edging of colored tiles were popular. Stainless steel appliances gained ground, built-in ovens became popular, and induction stovetops were introduced.

Conclusion:

The design style of the 1990s was a mix of traditional and modern elements, creating a unique and eclectic style. From the exterior wooden panels to the interior furniture, the decade was defined by its blend of styles from the past with modern elements. While the 1990s may be over, the design elements of this decade continue to inspire designers and homeowners alike.

Step into the Whimsical World of 1980s Postmodernist Architecture: A Look at Its Defining Characteristics

*Globen built in 1989, picture from* *Historiska media*

Step into a time machine and travel back to the vibrant decade of the 1980s, where pastel-colored exteriors and innovative interior design ruled the world of architecture. The postmodernist movement, which began in the late 1970s, continued to dominate the scene throughout the 80s, shaping the look and feel of buildings during this era. So, what were the defining characteristics of 1980s postmodernist architecture? Let's take a closer look!

Starting with the exterior, 1980s postmodernist buildings often featured facades made of pastel-colored reconstituted stone, plaster, or wood, creating a whimsical and playful appearance. The roofs were typically hipped and covered with gray concrete pantiles, adding to the overall aesthetic appeal. Two-light windows with false sash bars attached to the glass were also common, giving the impression of a traditional sash window without the associated costs. The outside doors were usually made of painted wood, completing the overall look.

*Typical 1980s Scandinavian exterior. Picture from* *Nordr.com*

Moving on to the interior, 1980s postmodernist architecture was all about combining elements of the past with contemporary design. Engineered parquet flooring, linoleum, and tiles of imitation natural stone were the popular flooring options of the time, while white-painted paneled doors or painted flush doors were commonly used for interior doors. Antique-style brass door handles with separate key plates added a touch of vintage charm to the décor.

Freestanding, angular, metal stoves were a popular choice for fireplaces, adding a touch of modernity to the interior. For walls, white or light-colored wallpapers were the norm, while pastel colors were used extensively to add a pop of color. Porcelain lamps, rice lampshades, and large chrome standard lamps were the popular lighting choices of the time, illuminating the space with style and elegance.

When it came to furniture, 1980s postmodernist architecture was all about exclusivity and style. Freestanding and sculptural items were the order of the day, with mass-produced, chipboard furnishings also gaining popularity. Sectional sofas and leather sofas, glass tables, and accessories in colors like mint green, apricot, turquoise, and brilliant neon were all the rage. Mirror walls, ceiling fans, china figurines, basketwork chairs, frilly curtains, and waterbeds were other defining elements of the 1980s postmodernist interior design.

Bathrooms during this time featured marbled tiles and non-matching tiles with painted motifs, waterproofed floors and walls, and shower units. Kitchens were typically white and gray, with paneled cupboard doors, laminate work surfaces with a marble or terrazzo appearance, and the introduction of ceramic stovetops and microwave ovens.

In conclusion, 1980s postmodernist architecture was all about combining the traditional with the contemporary, creating a unique and playful look that defined the decade. From pastel-colored exteriors to exclusive and stylish furniture, this era left a lasting impression on the world of architecture and interior design.

Exploring the Swedish Social Democratic Party's Public Housing Million Program V of the 1970s: A Look at the Distinctive Architecture and Interior Design of the Era

The 1970s was a decade that witnessed a number of significant cultural and social changes, and one of the most interesting developments of that period was the Swedish Social Democratic Party's Public Housing Million Program V. This program, which was launched in 1965, was designed to provide affordable housing for millions of people across Sweden, and it was characterized by a distinctive architectural style and interior design that still resonates today.

Public housing Million Program V, picture from Fastighetsbyrån.

If you're interested in learning more about this fascinating period of Swedish history, here are some key details and features to keep in mind:

Exterior Design:

The exterior design of the Public Housing Million Program V was characterized by several distinctive features, including vertical tongue-and-groove boards on the facade, large black concrete pantile roofs, and side-hung, outward-opening windows without architraves. The decorative but nonfunctioning exterior shutters and triple glazing became standard. The outside doors were typically made of patterned teak or rustic stained timber. Other typical period details included brick gables, brick to lower edge of windows, Bavarian-style balconies covered by the roof with outdoor area beneath it, and no cellars. Although the program is often associated with apartment blocks, it's worth noting that 335,000 small detached houses were also built.

Interior Design:

The interior design of the Public Housing Million Program V was characterized by a number of distinctive features, as well. Wall-to-wall carpets, patterned vinyl, and clear-varnished pine were common flooring choices, while tile was typically used in bathroom showers and hallways. Doors, architraves, and handles were all made of plastic, and there were rural-style wooden interior doors. Plastic handles of various colors and brass handles were common, as were simplified keys. Fireplaces were less common, due in part to the nuclear energy and oil crisis of the time, which meant that most houses were heated by electricity. Large-patterned, woven, and velour wallpaper was popular, as were pine lamps and velvet shades with fringes and tassels. The Swedish lighting company Ateljé Lyktan launched their Bumling lamps. Furniture was often made of pine, stained or varnished (clear), and included Windsor chairs, low, soft sofas with big back and side cushions, and upholstery in corduroy. Green, brown, and orange were popular colors.

The bathroom was often furnished with wooden cupboards with vertical blinds, cloth covers for the toilet seat and cover, and toilet mats. Shower units were launched as energy-saving units following the oil crisis, and bidets were mounted on the wall or the floor. Brown and beige Höganäs tiles were also popular, as was plastic- which was used for everything! The kitchen featured colored appliances, colored tiles, and rustic cupboard doors. Handles were often wooden knobs or round and concave plastic knobs. Three rows of tiles became standard as the backsplash behind the sink (two rows had been standard earlier).

Overall, the Swedish Social Democratic Party's Public Housing Million Program V was a remarkable achievement, and its legacy can still be seen in the architecture and design of many buildings and homes throughout Sweden. Whether you're interested in history, architecture, or interior design, this period offers a wealth of fascinating details and features to explore.

Get Groovy with 1960s Home Design: A Look at the Features of this Iconic Era

Step back in time with us to the swinging 60s! A decade of cultural revolution and innovation, where new styles and trends were emerging left and right. The 1960s was a time of change, and this change extended even to the way homes were designed and decorated. Let's take a closer look at the typical design features of a home from this iconic era.

Exterior

*Image:* *Storängsgatans Fastighetsförmedling*

The exterior of homes in the 1960s often had a distinct look, with brick, cement, and reconstituted stone with gray grouting being popular choices. Built-in glass blocks were also common, allowing natural light to flow inside. Here are some other notable exterior design features:

Gable roofs with a 25-degree slope and black, concrete double pantiles.
Long windows with low ledges and two panes, painted wooden frames.
Teak doors with groove designs and glass panes at the side of the door rather than in the door itself.
One-story detached houses were still common, but split-level houses were also on the rise.

Interior

*Image:* *Radisson SAS hotel Copenhagen*

The interior of a 1960s home was all about embracing the new and the modern. Check out some of the interior design features that were popular in this era:

Wall-to-wall carpets and vinyl, with tiles and natural stone in the hall.
Glass interior doors with patterned or etched glass, and stainless steel door handles with bone-white, black, or gray plastic handles.
Brick fireplaces as a popular focal point in the living room.
Seagrass and woven patterned wallpaper, and plastic and fabric shades for lighting.
Teak and mahogany furniture with slim, neat legs on sofas and upholstered chairs. Futuristic shapes, like the Jetson armchair, were also trendy. Muted shades of blue and gray were commonly used.
Half-tiled walls and herringbone tiling in the bathroom, with colorful bidets making a comeback. Perstorp launched their plastic flooring, which was more expensive than tiles but easier to clean and could also be used as a wall covering. Ceramic floor tiles measured 4 by 4 inches (10 by 10 cm).
In the kitchen, ceilings and woodwork were typically painted white, with cupboard doors often being a darker color, such as gray, blue, or green. Wooden handles on doors and drawers, glass or metal knobs on cupboards, and Gaboon veneer were commonly used. Pantries built against outside walls were being replaced by fridges and cool cupboards.

There you have it – a glimpse into the design features of a typical home from the groovy 1960s. The era may be over, but its design elements continue to inspire and influence modern interiors. If you're a fan of retro style, why not try incorporating some of these design features into your home décor?

Step into the Time Machine: Discovering the Fascinating Design of 1930s Functionalism and Modernism

Welcome to the fabulous 1930s, a time of incredible innovation and design! This period saw the rise of functionalism and modernism, which inspired architects and designers to create stunningly unique and modern buildings and interiors. Today, we're going to explore some of the most exciting design elements of this era, both inside and out!

*1930s exterior. Photo taken from* *Arkitekturutflykter*

Exterior Design

Let's start with the outside of these modern marvels! The buildings of the 1930s were known for their clean, straight lines and cube-shaped facades. These were often covered in light-colored plaster or thin standing wood panels, which gave them a sleek and minimalist look. And don't forget about the roofs! Flat roofs were all the rage, and sometimes, they were even clad in copper or sheet metal.

One of the most distinctive features of these buildings was the long horizontal window bands. These windows were often frameless and made up of large panes of glass without any mullions or transoms. This allowed for maximum natural light to enter the building and created a seamless connection between the interior and exterior spaces. The emphasis was on the horizontal rather than the vertical, and sometimes the windows even ran around the corners of the building!

The front doors of these buildings were also a unique feature. They were often wooden with circular glass windows, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to the overall design. And let's not forget about the curving balconies, often running around the corners of the building, with corrugated-iron balcony frontage. The lines of the building were emphasized, and everything had a purpose!

Interior Design

Now let's step inside these incredible buildings and take a look at the interior design elements that made them so special. One of the most notable features was the flooring. Parquet flooring in various patterns, tongue-and-groove floorboards, and linoleum were all popular choices. These added texture and depth to the space, while still maintaining the overall minimalist feel.

The doors in these buildings were also unique. Sliding doors and flush doors of lamella construction with a crisscross pattern were often used. Masonite was a breakthrough material at the time and was used to create smooth internal walls and light wallpapers or mural wallpapers that, from a distance, resembled a rough plastered wall. The interior walls and woodwork were light in color, but rarely completely white, often featuring muted pastel shades.

When it comes to furniture, functionalism, Bauhaus, and International style influences were all the rage. Tubular metal furniture and linear forms dominated, with materials like Bakelite, chrome, stainless steel, and colored glass being used extensively. And let's not forget about the bathrooms and kitchens! Bathrooms were simple and had most of today's features, with smooth white tiles on the walls or painted plywood, and black-and-white chessboard floors. And in the kitchen, flush cupboard doors with a slightly rounded profile, metal-sprung door latches, simple knobs, and metal cup handles on drawers were all popular choices.

In Conclusion,

The 1930s was an exciting time for design and architecture. Functionalism and modernism inspired architects and designers to create buildings and interiors that were sleek, modern, and functional. From the clean lines and cube shapes of the building facades to the long horizontal window bands and unique front doors, every element of these buildings was carefully thought out and purposeful. The interiors were just as impressive, with unique features like parquet flooring, lamella construction doors, and tubular metal furniture. The 1930s may be gone, but the influence of this era's design is still felt today!

What is a Scandinavian look house?

A Scandinavian look house typically refers to a style of home decor and design that originates from the Nordic region, which includes Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Iceland. The style is characterized by simplicity, functionality, and a focus on natural materials and light colors.

In terms of architecture, Scandinavian homes often have a minimalist and modern design, with clean lines and a focus on functionality. They may feature large windows that allow for plenty of natural light, as well as natural materials such as wood, stone, and concrete.

When it comes to interior design, a Scandinavian look house is typically characterized by a neutral color palette, with shades of white, gray, and beige being common. Furniture is often simple and functional, with a focus on comfort and practicality. Textiles such as wool, cotton, and linen may be used to add warmth and texture to the space.

Overall, the Scandinavian look house is a style that emphasizes simplicity, functionality, and natural materials, and it has become increasingly popular around the world in recent years.

Scandinavian Style Savant covers all Scandinavian look houses from 1900

The Scandinavian design style has become a global phenomenon, known for its simplicity, functionality, and minimalism. It has influenced the world of interior design and architecture for over a century, with its roots tracing back to the early 20th century.

To celebrate this iconic design style, the Scandinavian style savant has decided to cover the Scandinavian-style houses from 1900-2010, one decade a week. This will be a journey through the evolution of the Scandinavian design style and its influence on modern design.

Starting from the 1900s, the Scandinavian style savant has explored the design elements that characterized the architecture of this era, including the use of natural materials such as wood and stone, the focus on functionality, and the simplicity of design.

Moving into the 1910s, the focus shifted to the introduction of the Art Nouveau style and how it influenced Scandinavian architecture. The use of curved lines and organic shapes will be explored, as well as the incorporation of colorful stained glass and intricate metalwork.

*1910s, Photo by Kristoffer Ärnbac*k, Leksands Kommun

The 1920s was covered last week with its Symmetrical Facades and Swanky Interiors and the 1930s will be covered in the subsequent week, where the Scandinavian style savant will examine how the design style evolved during the interwar period. The introduction of modernist design and the Bauhaus movement will be explored, as well as the use of concrete and steel in architecture.

*1920s, Gunnar Asplund, Stockholm Public Library,* *ph.* *Fabien Bellat*

The post-war period of the 1940s and 1950s will be covered in the following weeks, where the Scandinavian style savant will examine the impact of functionalism and the modernist movement on Scandinavian design. The use of light colors, clean lines, and natural materials will be explored, as well as the incorporation of mid-century modern furniture.

Moving into the 1960s, the Scandinavian style savant will explore the introduction of Scandinavian pop art and how it influenced design during this era. The use of bold colors, geometric shapes, and playful patterns will be examined.

The following decades, including the 1970s, 1980s, 1990s, and 2000s, will also be covered in subsequent weeks, exploring how the Scandinavian design style continued to evolve and influence modern design.

Overall, this journey through the evolution of Scandinavian design will provide a fascinating insight into the iconic design style that has become so popular around the world today. Each decade will offer unique design elements and inspirations that have shaped the Scandinavian design style we know and love today.