Vintage decor in a 40sqm two-room apartment without sacrificing space

This 40sqm two-room apartment with vintage decor is located in a functionalist building in Mariehäll, a residential neighborhood in Bromma, west of Stockholm. Architect Karl G. H. Karlsson designed the building in 1944, it features an almost austere facade, white windows, and simple lines.

The Stockholm City Museum has classified the building as a structure of historical and cultural interest, despite its raw appearance, which might put some people off. Inside, the decor pays homage to the era in which it was built, featuring a mix of vintage furniture, teak, and green accents.

A well-organized open floor plan

The apartment is located on the second floor of the building. From the windows, the view stretches over the rooftops toward the Bällstaån River and the neighboring town of Sundbyberg. Thanks to this unobstructed location, sunlight streams in generously, even during the Swedish winter, when light is scarce. The marble windowsills reflect the attention to detail typical of the 1940s.

The layout combines the living room and kitchen into a single space. This arrangement fosters a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Guests can settle into the sofa with a glass of wine while the host cooks, and no one feels left out. The floor plan also highlights the clever layout. The entryway leads to all the rooms except the bedroom, which is set apart in a quiet corner. No hallway takes up any of the truly usable space.

The living room and its green wall

The living room is quite spacious, with enough room for a sofa, an armchair, and storage. Its focal point is the wall painted green, a lime-based paint applied in broad, crisscrossed strokes to create a mottled effect. This material and color give the room a unique character. To avoid overdoing it, the other walls are painted off-white, and dark brown hardwood floors cover the floor.

Vintage and one-of-a-kind pieces

The furniture blends different eras with just the right touch. You’ll find contemporary pieces, such as the sofa, coffee tables, and armchair, alongside vintage and one-of-a-kind items. For example, in one corner stands an old brown metal chest of drawers, like those once found in factory offices. On another wall, a 1960s teak sideboard on tapered legs holds a record player. Right next to it, a vintage bamboo serving cart looks like it was found at a flea market.

The kitchen with a charming vintage look

The kitchen exudes a warm, inviting atmosphere. A half-moon countertop on a chrome base serves as a dining table. The whimsical atmosphere of the space is highlighted by a mirror ball hanging in the style of a ’60s and ’70s nightclub. It’s a small but well-designed room with plenty of storage and a full-sized countertop. Along the window, a second countertop serves as a serving table and offers an unobstructed view of the city.

The cabinet fronts are cream-colored and feature retro designs. With the checkerboard floor, it almost feels like you’re in one of those American “diner” restaurants found in big cities or along the highways.

The bedroom, a quiet retreat

The bedroom opens onto the back of the kitchen, away from foot traffic and noise. Its hardwood floors have been stripped back to their natural state, and the walls are painted a creamy white. The bedroom’s decor follows the same theme as the living area. The olive-green bedding complements the green wall in the living room. On the wall, a gallery of mismatched frames combines collages with watercolors and old photos in their gilded frames. Two brass wall sconces with green fringe illuminate the headboard in a bohemian style. A String shelf is mounted above the bed.

A well-organized entrance

The entrance hall is in keeping with the rest of this apartment’s vintage decor. It combines shelving with a practical closet, all while maintaining an elegant look. A chandelier with glass and brass pendants hangs from the ceiling, illuminating this small space. A gilded Baroque mirror and a black coat rack complement each other. The gray-and-white checkerboard pattern on the floor, which is also found in the kitchen, naturally draws the eye toward the living room and its green wall.

A simple, white bathroom

The bathroom is simple, almost minimalist. It features a vanity sink, a toilet, and a corner shower enclosed by two rounded glass doors. White tile covers the walls, while dark gray tiles cover the floor.

Our take on the decor

This two-room apartment with vintage decor is a prime example of an older home that has successfully modernized without losing its character. Green, brass, and wood are featured throughout every room. These design choices create a harmonious and soothing theme.

When it comes to storage, the solutions are clever and inexpensive. The curtain in front of a niche to create a closed closet, the movable serving cart, and the vintage sideboard are not only charming but also very practical. The existing kitchen, left as-is, has gained personality thanks to the accessories.

A French-style bistro and flea market vibe

This Swedish interior also appeals to fans of French-style vintage decor. The gray-and-white checkerboard pattern and the cream-colored kitchen furniture immediately bring to mind Parisian bistros. The gilded Baroque mirror and the tasseled chandelier look like they came straight from the Saint-Ouen flea market near Paris.

To recreate this vibe, simply hunt down a 1960s sideboard and a rattan serving cart at a flea market. A lime wash will add character to a living room wall (not necessarily green).

Mariehäll, a green neighborhood on the outskirts of Sundbyberg

Mariehäll is part of Bromma, in western Stockholm. This tree-lined residential neighborhood offers a peaceful lifestyle just a stone’s throw from the city center. The Bällstaån River runs alongside the neighborhood and is perfect for a stroll. This 40sqm vintage two-room apartment is for sale at Historiska for 2,495,000 SEK, or approximately $250,000