Sweden meets Shanghai in a cozy apartment in the center
The bright, spacious apartment rented by Ylva Rantfors and Linn Medlov is very personal and cozy with Scandinavian aesthetics.
Both from Sweden, the two women met in Shanghai through a mutual friend and wanted to find an ideal apartment to share. They both prefer Nordic design based on minimalism and simplicity with an elegant edge.
“Since it’s just me and Linn, we did not need a very large space but set priorities for a lot of natural light, an open floor plan, a nice outdoor space and of course a living location,” said Rantfors. “It was pretty hard to find what we wanted, but in the end we did.”
When they first visited their current home, it was under renovation and a complete mess.
Dong Jun / SHINE
“But the designer Nathan Hou, who is our landlord, showed us the design reproduction. We saw the potential in it,” said Rantfors.
Hou, founder and design director of Nothing Studio, has done many different projects in the tree-lined center. Due to the apartment’s ideal location on Yueyang Road with stunning views of the neighborhood, he decided to turn it into a modern residence without compromising on functionality.
The highlight is definitely the 100 square meter roof area – a rare find in central Shanghai.
“It was also the biggest challenge – connecting the interior to the roof upstairs. We spent a lot of time finding out the structure and the details to make it user-friendly,” Hou said.
Dong Jun / SHINE
Rantfors and Medlov liked most of Hous’ refurbishment ideas, but also loved making small adjustments to their lifestyles and personalities. For example, they preferred the open kitchen. There is also a bar that visually separated the open kitchen and dining area. They wanted to create an atmosphere that is functional, aesthetically pleasing and above all comfortable.
The open floor plan has a visual impact, but the various functional areas are clearly defined as kitchen, dining room and living room.
Rantfors and Medlov’s favorite furniture style is Nordic and simple, as it complements their signature pieces and makes them stand out. Hou chose furniture in regular colors and classic shapes.
Dong Jun / SHINE
The basic color scheme is based on neutral tones and wood materials.
The living room, with a light tone palette, has a forest green sofa, and the overall design integrates plants to freshen up the space. The beautiful greenery enhances the space, which is abundant with natural light.
During the night, an atmospheric evening atmosphere is in focus. Floor lamps, table and ceiling lamps are integrated in the living room to illuminate different spots.
“We love to entertain friends often, so it’s important to have a spacious living room and a dining area for people to socialize and have fun. There is also a comfortable corner next to the windows, where I put my favorite armchair inherited from my grandmother. It is an ideal place to read and relax, says Rentfors.
Dong Jun / SHINE
Although most of the furniture was bought locally, Rantfors brought some important pieces from home, including the armchair, the dining chairs and a painting of the Temple of Heaven that she bought from a market in Beijing when she worked for the Swedish Chamber of Commerce five years ago.
Each bedroom features family photos and personal items that contribute to the warm atmosphere. Similar style and color scheme in each room is designed to create a good flow.
The 155 square meter apartment allows for comfortable living, but the roof terrace is obviously the luxury. It emits a holiday vibe when you lie on the sun lounger and just see the sky, charming historic houses and the city skyline.
In Sweden, there is a strong tradition of spending time outdoors. Rantfors often comes here for relaxation and entertainment. The roof integrates cozy spaces to the lounge, outdoor seating, barbecue facilities and everything contributes to an outdoor oasis in an urban jungle.
Yang Di / SHINE
Ask the owner
Q: What is the best thing about living in Shanghai?
A: It’s about different types of people from all over the world you meet here. Everyone is very social, open minded and wants to connect.
Q: Describe your home in three words.
A: Light, modern, Scandinavian.
Q: How do you relax?
A: Reads and takes a glass of wine.
Q: Where do you spend the most time at home?
A: In the bar.
Q: What is the view outside your window?
A: Beautiful old houses and many trees.
Q: What is your favorite item at home?
A: The grandmother’s chair.
Q: Where do you buy furniture?
A: Designer stores in Sweden.