Tid for Hjem – Modern Heritage Meets Scandi Chic
Designed and completed by Oliver Heath, Elly Deakin and TV2’s Tid for Hjem
This project for Norway’s TV2 show ‘Tid for Hjem’, proposed that we redesign a family living and dining room within a countryside villa built by family members during the 1920s. The home is situated down a quiet lane with spectacular views out onto lakes, trees and mountains; a setting that was the inspiration for many of the books written by the current owner of the house.
The existing room was underused and cluttered – over filled with old furniture and family heir looms. The lack of zoned space and focus left the family not knowing how to use the space or when. As well as applying a fresh, contemporary finish to the space, we maintained the richness of the Nordic villa’s heritage. The family living space now features upcycled furniture, bespoke shelving for displaying trinkets and integrated banquette seating for those family moments. We raised the floor to make the beautiful views from the internal seating more accessible for the family. The integrated window seat/ shelving unit creates a relaxing place to sit close to nature and gain exposure to natural light.
A family dining area was constructed in a corner furthest away from the window, surrounded by numerous heirlooms. This design feature intends to spark conversation and enhance family memories. The shape of the existing fireplace has been simplified in order to allow for a cosy corner seat, where family members can sit and read.
The fireplace structure uses hand glazed burgundy tiles, which create a striking focal point to the room and complements the rich berry tones found in soft furnishings. We upcycled many pieces of the existing furniture to maintain the interior’s character. These included family heir looms, chairs and an old typewriter that we transformed into a lamp – with a jelly mould as the shade!
The room also features many bespoke pieces of furniture including the book table situated at the centre. The project gave us the perfect opportunity to demonstrate some of the key Biophilic design principles, improving views onto nature; increasing exposure to natural light, the use of textural natural materials, natural colour schemes as well as ensuring nature is always in the peripheral vision. These ideas help to create a calming, restorative and social space, where the family are able to relax and unwind together.