The cigarette-smelling apartment renovated with her mother became a bit too large for Matilde: “I’m happy to share this with roommates”

The dining table is from Artek. Artwork by Kaisla La Ranta.

The kitchen cabinets are from Blau. The idea for the large horizontal mirror and the plate rack came from interior designer Sara Lindeblad. The mirror makes the narrow kitchen feel more spacious.

“In my next home, I might get several Hay plate racks instead of cabinets. The rack is really practical and also beautiful, and it complements the stainless steel countertop,” says Matilde.

Matilde wanted plenty of cabinet space in her kitchen, but now she feels there’s almost too much. The artwork on the open shelf is from Fida secondhand. Matilde has brought most of her dishes with her from Jerusalem.

The sofa is upholstered in Artek’s Niittykukkia fabric. The cushions are by Klaus Haapaniemi. Matilde has purchased all the wool rugs in her home from Morocco.

What was your first morning in your new home like?

I’ve always lived in compact spaces, and I still spend my summers on my sailboat enjoying minimalism. However, there’s an inherent vanity in us humans—the more you see beautiful spaces, the more demanding you become. I moved into this home before its renovation. The place was like an ashtray, as the previous resident was a heavy smoker. When I woke up after the first night, it felt like I had woken up in a restaurant’s smoking room.

What was the guiding principle for the renovation?

We planned everything together with my mother and my interior designer friend Sara Lindeblad. I dreamed of a fragrant, harmonious home that offers a comprehensive sensory experience. I believe contradictions make a home interesting and personal. The renovation respects the 1920s Töölö interior style while leaving room for contemporary design. Since my previous place was three times smaller, I've had to buy almost everything. In my purchases, I favor soulful vintage and second-hand items.

The living room walls are painted in Farrow & Ball’s Indian Yellow. “My Mom has forbidden me to use wall sconces or buy new paintings. I remind her that walls are just walls, and holes can always be filled.”

For Matilde, a large dining table means making new connections. “I’ve met many people for the first time at this table. Many of my roommates have worked in the cultural sector.” The yellow chairs are Asko’s Amigo, while the green ones were remnants from an interior architecture office. The paintings are by artists Olavi Klinov and Fredrik Karell.

What brings you the most joy in your home?

My Achilles’ heel in sustainability is buying new technology devices. My home is a smart home—it has an innovative lighting system, wireless charging points, and I can control appliances remotely from my phone. I’m also delighted with the storage solutions that have proven effective. I’m quite skilled at creating chaos and spreading things around. It’s not enough for items to have a designated place; that place must also be intuitive.

What’s your favorite spot in your home?

It’s the sofa corner in the kitchen. I think sitting on a chair at a table feels too formal. I’ve lived in the Middle East, where low, cushioned floor-level lounging and dining areas are common.

Matilde has gathered quite a collection of Kokori baskets. The rattan side table was found secondhand on Tori.fi.

The second bedroom features Vitra’s Hang it all coat rack with Anton Baer’s artwork above it.

The vision for the bathroom was to implement a 1920s art deco style reflecting the building’s era. The tiles are from Laattamaailma. “The color was the result of a battle of wills—my mother would have wanted the space to be white.”

When is your home at its best?

I enjoy my alone time, but constant solitude makes me unhappy. Since my home is too big for just me, I’m happy to share it with roommates. Sometimes you think you want a romantic relationship, but you really just crave company and sharing your life with someone. And what’s the point of a beautiful home if it’s not being used?

Matilde was determined to have a blue bedroom. The shade is Farrow & Ball’s Oval Room Blue. “I only use this room for sleeping. I think the blue shade in my bedroom is perfect.”

Kaarle the crow was taxidermied by Matilde herself. “Ethical taxidermy is a hobby where naturally deceased birds are preserved. Birds are beautiful and they increase your appreciation and understanding of nature.”

Matilde’s home is located in Lars Sonck’s courtyard, which connects 12 buildings together. “I love the cultural history of the early 20th century. When you step outside, the streets are full of fascinating stories!”