As you probably know by now, I’m a bit of a bookworm and never happier than at this time of year when a whole host of exciting titles hit the shops. From picture perfect homes and delicious recipes to practical advice and get-away-from-it-all destinations, whatever part of Nordic life you’re inspired by there really is something for everyone.
So, if you’re on the lookout for new books for autumn, especially those that will see you through the darker evenings ahead, here’s more about my current favourites:
Nordic Sense of Luxe, by Piia Kalliomäki and Pauliina Salonen, €38, Cozy Publishing
This latest exciting volume from interior journalist Piia Kalliomäki and photographer Pauliina Salonen offers a fresh perspective on what Nordic style is. A celebration of contemporary homes from across the region, this book invites us to explore how contemporary living can happily sit side-by-side with the deeply-rooted design heritage and paired-back look we love.
Bring The Outside In: Biophilic design for a naturally beautiful home by Abi Dare, £35, Rylands Peters & Small*
Including beautiful photography by mutual friend Tiffany Grant-Riley, Abi’s new book provides readers with all the tools they need to harness the power of biophilic design. An approach proven to enhance our health and wellbeing, as well as reconnect us with nature, each of the six sections featured are sure to have a big impact on both your home and daily life.
Nordic Atelier Homes, by Anna-Kaisa Huusko & Niclas Mäkelä, €38, Cozy Publishing
Taking readers on an inspirational journey through Sweden, Finland and Denmark, this beautiful book steps inside twelve iconic, one-of-a-kind homes, retreats and studios that where all once inhabited by the most renowned names of the 20th century. From Finn Juhl and Bruno Mathsson to Tove Jansson and Gunnar Asplund, each one is filled with tonnes of creativity and character.
Genuine: Handmade Beauty from the North by Riitta Sourander, Cozy Publishing, €33
Paying tribute to Finland’s love of craftsmanship this stunning new book showcases artefacts from the country’s past as well as highlights the work of modern-day makers who draw on this heritage today. Including master cabinetmaker and carpenter Matti Söderkultalahti, sculptor and environmental artist Jenni Tieaho and multi-sensory Helsinki-based creative Mari Paikkari, it’s a delight to read.
The Scandinavian Year: Food and Thoughts from Sweden, Denmark and Norway, £25, Ryland Peters & Small*
In her latest book Bronte takes us from January to December through Nordic food. Exploring Scandi traditions and seasonal celebrations along the way, every one of the 140 recipes included are healthy, wholesome and most importantly to me, simple to make. As a regular visitor to the Scandikitchen Café, this was one title I couldn’t not add to my collection.
The Designs of Arne Jacobsen: Interiors, Furniture, Lighting and Textiles, 1925-1971, by Thomas Dickson and Henrik Lund-Larsen, £55, Prestel Publishing*
Alongside Jacobsen’s most celebrated furniture and interiors, what I really love about this book is that it explores his lesser-known fabric and garden designs too. It also offers a rare glimpse into his personal world as well, such as his friendships with other designers, the creative circles he moved in, and the moments of spontaneity and fun that went on to shape his work.
The Japandi Home: Nordic Minimalism Meets Japanese Zen by Cate St Hill, £25, Union Square & Co*
Cate’s book may have been in the shops for a couple of months now, but it’s one I’ve already returned to time and time again. Taking a deep dive into the key themes that connect both the look and longevity of Japanese and Scandinavian design, its inspirational images, insightful interviews and helpful advice enables readers to see way beyond the trend and understand its far-reaching ethos.
Drifting through Nordic Islands by Henna Ojala-Merikoski and Frida Steiner, €33, Cozy Publishing
With a staggering 76 per cent of the world’s islands located in the Nordics, and over 224,000 of them in Finland alone, this is more than a book, it’s an invitation to escape. Whether located on a remote lakeside, rugged riverbank or in the middle of an untamed forest, each breathtaking abode is packed full of quiet Scandi charm and steeped in stories that are sure to inspire your own interiors.
Nordic Colours: How to create interior moods by Katrine Martensen-Larsen, £45, Lannoo Publishers*
Another firm favourite of mine has to be the latest book by Danish interior stylist Katrine Martensen-Larsen. I adored her previous title, ‘Nordic Moods’, and you can read my chat with Katrine about it here. Again, this time, along with nine real home examples, the learning focusses on mood boards, how to create them, and the magic that occurs when all those samples suddenly fall into place.
Image 1 by Nicola Capper all remaining images courtesy of the publishers named.
*Please note this post contains affiliate links.
Enjoyed this post? Then read my previous round-up of new books for autumn here.
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