I came across a Nordic kitchen design created by Swedish interior designer Anna Bjelkholm, and I found it incredibly well-balanced, capturing a strong connection to nature and exuding a soothing atmosphere.

(Swipe to see more images of the property – Photos: Rebecca Martyn)

What I also noticed is that the concept seamlessly merges the understated, minimalist essence of Nordic design with the opulent and deep tones of the inherently English William Morris Pimpernel wallpaper. Through this wallpaper, the English cottage element reinforces the connection to nature and effortlessly captures the magnificence of the outdoors, bringing it indoors.

I believe the selection of William Morris is undoubtedly intentional, rather than arbitrary. When Morris designed the wallpaper in 1876, his primary goal was to accentuate the splendour of nature through gracefully curved leaves, intricate climbing willow motifs, and muted tones. Using it here works beautifully to achieve a contrast that is both remarkable and harmonious.

I particularly admire this kitchen design as I am all about artfully blending two different styles to create something truly distinctive. Fusing styles instils personality and character, ultimately making the space one-of-a-kind.

Another noteworthy element is the flooring. The blue and white hexagonal tiles stand out as a remarkable feature of this kitchen. I presume (unless I am mistaken) that these tiles are original, dating back to a time before any renovations took place.

Now, let’s ‘steal’ Anna Bjelkholm’s design style and break down the elements within the kitchen for those who are inspired to replicate either specific parts or the entire style. This will help identify the precise (or similar) components that can be sourced.

1 – IKEA Wall Shelf, Tranhult/Sandhult, white stained aspen, 80 x 20 cm, €23.

2 – William Morris Pimpernel Wallpaper, Bayleaf/Manilla, €187 per roll, (Etoffe.com).

3 – White Ceramic Subway Tiles with a glossy finish, adorned with a decorative cornice – I’m confident that these can be found at nearly any tile shop.

4 – A similar Cutting Board can be found at H&M Home for €20.

5 – This Farmhouse-Style Skirting Board, likely around 185 mm in height, is available in options like MDF, softwood, and hardwood. Of course, the budget will vary.

6 – I was able to find a lighting fixture that bears a resemblance to the one seen in the image. It’s a Ceramic Ceiling Lamp from Zara Home, priced at €79.99.

7 – I found this Utensil Stone Holder priced at €29.99, and I prefer it.

8 – A Shaker Style Kitchen, likely using Ikea METOD cabinets, but with custom-made fronts from Plum Living in Amandier Grisé (a shade resembling light sage green), along with chrome handle knobs also from Plum Living. The budget will vary based on the size and specifications of the kitchen layout.

9 – HAVSEN Sink Bowl from IKEA, white, 82×48 cm, priced at €239, accompanied by the INSJÖN Kitchen Faucet, also from IKEA, with pull-out spout in chrome plated finish, priced at €329.

10 – The closest option: BRUNBÄR Plant Pot With Saucer, from IKEA, for outdoor use, in terracotta, measuring 24 cm, is priced at €14.99.

11 – A similar Retro Mini Milk Jug is available on Etsy (Johnny Vintage Shop) for €11.25.

12 – Chrome Kettle, from Smeg for €199.

My Own Take on This Nordic Kitchen Design Concept

This kitchen has truly ignited my inspiration to craft my own interpretation of its design style. As I followed the thread of my creative thought, I’ve developed a concept that integrates Nordic design with delightful French accent elements, all while remaining dedicated to the original intention of cultivating a soothing and calming ambiance, with a strong focus on that connection to nature. Why the French touch? Well, living in France, it’s hard to resist its influence. On a more serious note, I strongly believe that the French style adds a certain charm to Scandinavian interiors. The harmonious blend of these two styles, in my opinion, is remarkably effective.

My concept also carries a touch of femininity (I can’t help it)… I’m eager to hear your thoughts.

1 – IKEA Wall Shelf, TORNVIKEN, white, 50 cm, €39.99.

2 – The quintessentially 18th century French Braquenié Wallpaper, named ‘La Comédie’, is priced at €181 per roll.

3 – Vintage Ceramic Pendant Light, from Luminaire Suspendu, €149.90.

4 – Forced Air Oven, MATTRADITION, from IKEA, priced at €359.

5 – GLITTRAN Kitchen Faucet, brass colour, from IKEA, priced at €129.

6 – Coffee Machine, THERA RETRO MATT, from Create Store, €129.95.

7 – Pompadour Small Plates, from Gien, €110.

8 – NORDMYRA Chair, oak, from IKEA, €59.99.

9 – HAVSEN Sink Bowl from IKEA, white, 82×48 cm, priced at €239.

10 – Herringbone Wood Flooring, available at any DIY store.

11 – A Shaker Style Kitchen, likely using Ikea METOD cabinets, but with custom-made fronts from Plum Living in Amandier Grisé (a shade resembling light sage green), along with chrome bull handle knobs also from Plum Living. The budget will vary based on the size and specifications of the kitchen layout.

12 – Cutting Board can be found at H&M Home for €20.