Eva, Martin, and their daughter Signe reside in a picturesque apartment nestled in Kungshöjd, Gothenburg.
With its iconic architecture characterized by unique angles and cozy nooks, its home beautifully blends modern aesthetics with the historical charm of the turn-of-the-century building.
They’ve transformed their apartment into a warm, personal sanctuary through careful renovation, flea market treasures, and sentimental heirlooms.
The Barefoot Edit discovered this beautiful home on Alvhem, where it was listed for sale. Alvhem offers a genuine, personal approach to real estate, focusing on preserving the character of older homes while embracing modern design.
Join us as we explore their home and the thoughtful choices behind its design.
Embracing Kungshöjd’s Vibrant Lifestyle
Kungshöjd holds a special place in Martin’s heart, having lived in the area for over a decade.
When he met Eva, she moved into his apartment on Ingenjörsgatan. Eventually, they found their perfect home just a few meters away on Kungsgatan—a move that coincided with Eva’s pregnancy.
- “Many of our friends live here, and the area is always buzzing with activity,” shares Martin.
Their new apartment’s location allows Eva and Martin to cycle or walk to work, taking turns escorting Signe to her preschool in Haga.
It’s the community vibe and proximity to amenities that make Kungshöjd an ideal place for their growing family.
Transforming a Historic Space
Renovation became the key to making this apartment their own. Martin and Eva undertook extensive updates to preserve the building’s historic character while creating a functional and modern home.
- “The joy of not buying a fully finished apartment is being able to leave your mark and make it truly yours,” says Martin.
Revitalizing the Kitchen
The kitchen, often considered the heart of a home, received significant attention.
Removing a wall between the small kitchen and guest room opened the space to create a welcoming and functional gathering area.
The couple installed a new kitchen floor when the old floor failed to reveal the hoped-for intact plank boards.
The rest of the apartment’s yellow-toned oak parquet was sanded and treated with white pigment to achieve a cohesive and airy look.
In a delightful nod to the apartment’s history, stone slabs from previous floor plans remain in the kitchen windows, adding character and a story to the space.
A Palette of Timeless Elegance
The home’s color scheme features muted tones of light gray and gray-blue, evoking a sense of calm and cohesion.
The innermost bedroom introduces a darker wall color, adding depth and serving as a stunning backdrop for their art collection.
- “We wanted the rooms to feel bright while ensuring the artwork stood out,” Eva explains.
A Nod to Heritage and Creativity
Eva and Martin’s design philosophy embraces a mix of classic and modern elements.
Over the years, they have curated a collection of furnishings that combine flea market finds, inherited treasures, and contemporary designs.
Highlights include:
- A desk chair passed down from Eva’s grandmother.
- A repurposed kitchen door transformed into a desk.
- Doors found in the attic were resized and converted into sliding doors for the living room and bedrooms.
- A 5-kroner flea market lamp was purchased during Eva’s student days.
The couple takes pride in their creative solutions, ensuring every piece in their home has a purpose and story.
Designing a Playful Space for Signe
Little Signe’s room reflects the same thoughtful approach seen throughout the home.
Eva and her sister used washi tape and thoughtfully placed shelves to create a playful environment that encourages exploration.
Before Signe’s arrival, the couple restored a vintage children’s chair, spending countless hours sanding and painting it to perfection.
This dedication exemplifies the love and care poured into every detail of their home.
Historic Balconies with a Modern Touch
The apartment boasts four balconies, three of which line up with views of Kungsgatan.
- “The previous owner used all three balconies for crafting sessions with friends,” Martin shares.
These outdoor spaces, steeped in history, are now cherished retreats for Eva, Martin, and Signe.
Conclusion: From Renovation to Celebration
The couple’s efforts culminated in a practical and deeply personal home.
Their journey demonstrates how blending modern updates with historical details creates a timeless and inviting space.
Eva, Martin, and Signe’s story is an inspiring testament to the beauty of combining creativity, heritage, and functionality.
Their home reflects their personalities and preserves the spirit of Kungshöjd’s architectural charm. It’s a space where history meets modernity and family life thrives.
Do you have a renovation story or a unique design tip? Share it in the comments below or email us at info@thebarefootedit.com
