As a Nordic design and lifestyle lover, as well an avid reader, nothing lifts my spirits, helps me to unwind, or generally diverts my attention away from more stressful matters than an interiors magazine.
With the bank holiday weekend ahead, and everyone needing to take some time out, what better way to get some much-needed inspiration while we all stay home.
So, grab yourself a cup of freshly brewed coffee, get cosy and find out more about my current favourite ten:
1. Rum International
Understandably the quarterly English version of this leading Danish publication sells out fast and is a ‘not to be missed’ read. I can happily lose myself for hours in its perfectly styled pages, as every edition is filled with the most amazing homes, interviews with leading creatives. It also takes a closer look at the most awe inspiring pieces and places steeped in design heritage.
2. Ark Journal
Ark Journal is a Copenhagen based biannual magazine dedicated to architecture, design and art; and has quickly become a firm favourite of mine. I know when a new edition lands on my doormat that I’m in for a real treat. Each copy also comes with a choice of four different covers, so interiors enthusiasts like me can even choose the one that complements their own sense of style the most.
3. Oak – The Nordic Journal
This very special hard-backed journal focusses on people and places, community and culture, and was the first Nordic annual publication I started collecting. It’s always a rather special moment when I pick up the latest copy while visiting Copenhagen. The Danish Architecture Center shop has a fantastic collection if you’re ever in town.
As well as the journal itself, I also recommend giving their accompanying podcast a listen as well as taking a look at their two books, Curated Copenhagen and The Red Thread. Both are essential additions for any Nordic bookshelf.
4. Asun Homes
I first spotted Asun Homes while on holiday in Helsinki last year. Produced annually, alongside a bi-monthly edition in its native Finnish, Asun Homes is jam-packed with the most incredible Nordic homes. Page after page is filled with light filled spaces, pale tones and the soft minimal style I adore. Safe to say it’s given me many ideas for my own home too.
5. My Residence
Probably the most Instagrammed publication on this list, My Residence is an annual Swedish magazine usually released to coincide with Stockholm Design Week each February. If you want to be the first to know all about the very latest in Scandinavian interiors, design, and architecture then this is for you.
6. Enki
When Enki first hit the UK newstands I spent days trying to track down a copy. Safe to say I am now the proud owner of every 25 monthly editions so far. Each one provides a glimpse into the most amazing homes and the architects behind them, gives you the heads up on upcoming developments, tech and destinations, and features interviews and advice from leading designers, artists and interior experts.
7. Openhouse
Reading the latest copy of Openhouse always reminds me of my pre-parenting days when I could spend leisurely weekends in coffee shops pouring over its pages. Those days may be gone but it doesn’t stop me enjoying this beautiful lifestyle and culture magazine dedicated to celebrating creativity around the world.
8. Design Anthology
Published three times a year, each collectable issue showcases the latest in architecture and homewares alongside the finest interiors, seasonal fashion and beauty trends, and the latest must visit hotels, galleries, shops and eateries from across Europe.
9. Considered Magazine
Launched just last year, and produced down the road from me in Manchester, Considered is an independently published, bi-annual magazine for those seeking a more sustainable and mindful lifestyle. The thoughtful and beautiful pieces shared in each edition, whether it’s about fashion, travel or home offer a glimmer of hope for a slower and more fulfilling future in amongst all the white noise.
10. Tiny Adventures
I discovered this gorgeous German and English travel and lifestyle bookazine for families last year. Each edition is filled with the most amazing photographs and illustrations, and focusses on a different part of the world. You can imagine how inspirational ‘The Wild North’ edition has been for me; filled with real life globe-trotting experiences, recipes and adventures from the Nordic countries and beyond.
Hopefully, this list has provided you with some new titles to discover. Do let me know if you have any further recommendations as I’m always on the lookout for more.
Like this post? You might also enjoy reading more about my favourite podcasts too.
All images by Nicola Capper.
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