Interior designer Ellen Westöö's dream house in Åre
Step into the design home of Strawstudio founder Ellen Westöö in Åre – a converted mountain cabin at Buustamon with a view of Ullådalen. The kitchen, from Nordiska Kök, features a custom design with natural materials, perfectly complementing the rustic charm of the cabin.
What was your thoughts about renovation and interior design?
The house is basically a relatively traditional sports cabin from the 1990s. When we first stepped into the house, not much had been done since it was built, basically nothing. It was a yellowish pine from floor to ceiling and what we reacted to was that there were tiny windows facing the absolute magnificent view towards Mullfjället. The most spectacular thing about this place is the mountain and the view, and that there are not a lot of houses around or in front. Our first thought was therefore that the most important thing will be to install bigger windows towards the view. We wanted to be more "one with the mountain".
Get the latest kitchen inspiration.
Then we did not want to over-furnish it but let it be stripped down and simple. New favorites got to mingle with wonderful furniture that has had a life before. Like our dining table - it is an old back table from the 19th century that I bought from one of my favorite places - Kulans Antique in Ängelholm, in the south of Sweden
The house had to undergo a total transformation - by and large, only the frame remains, everything else has been given a new character. We wanted to create a home that could interact with nature. Where natural materials were allowed to take place and earthy and monochrome colors were a large part of the color palette.
What were the key choices behind the kitchen design?
The kitchen is like for many, the heart of the home and right here in Åre where you spend many afternoons and evenings with long cooking and family dinners, it felt very important to create a social kitchen. A kitchen where there is a good place to cook with friends and family but also a kitchen that provides space to socialize and play games. A bit of a challenge when space is limited. So, the kitchen that was previously an L-kitchen had to be removed and instead we created a kitchen with only a long workbench and a kitchen island. Large areas for cooking and a lovely bar counter for social occasions. The balance was perfect.
See more kitchen inspiration.
When it came to the materials, it was a natural choice to have a kitchen made of pure wood, as we want to work with natural materials. The choice was a slightly darker wood paired with Öland limestone worktop.
We also wanted to work with textures and some color. The tile was therefore the icing on the cake and complemented the fantastically beautiful kitchen perfectly.
Why did you choose to collaborate with Nordiska Kök?
As an interior designer I have had an eye on Nordiska Kök for quite some time. A brand that (in my opinion) had completely developed the perfect kitchen combinations and that was one step ahead of other suppliers when it comes to a stylish design. We also experienced during the trip that it was smooth without home visits and that most things were handled digitally. It both flowed well and then it became more economical for the wallet. A good combo quite simply. Once the kitchen was in place, we could see that it turned out exactly as we wanted it.
Ellen Westöö, founder of The Straw Studio. Photo: annarostrom.com
Large areas for cooking and a lovely bar counter for social occasions, in this site-built kitchen in Åre.
You co-run The Straw with Caroline Ranås – How did it start, and what services do you offer?
We started The Straw together almost two years ago. It has really been one such thing that she and I have been talking about for many years. We have bumped and soaked the idea back and forth and finally after a round trip we landed in what is today The Straw. An interior design concept that accommodates both products and interior design services. What is the common factor for the two offers is sustainability and long-term solutions. We work exclusively with natural materials or materials that have previously been used for something else - such as waste fabrics from other productions. And for our particular interior design assignments, we work to create a personal home that lasts over time. We encourage you to make well-thought-out, long-term purchases, feel free to reuse what you have or buy second-hand.
Headboard from The Straw studio.
Vintage pot from The Straw studio.
Today, we have an e-commerce store with unique, hand-picked products for the home at thestraw.se. With us you can find everything from a portable sun lounger in rattan to large vintage pots. And when you need help developing your style or just want a fresh start - then we will help you with that whole journey; colors, choice of materials and decor.
Why it became The Straw has to do with the idea for our brand came when we were in Indonesia and there is a fantastic craft in just straw products - baskets, bags, interior details, etc. And then the name became The Straw.
The site-built wooden kitchen in afternoon sun light.
Vintage pot from The Straw studio.
What is the very best thing about Åre?
The best thing about Åre is nature. To be able to leave a big city behind and wake up and be met by a calm. The first breaths when looking out over the mountains, that is the absolute best.
Then I think Åre is so good because it has everything. It has the tranquility and the mountains but it also has awesome restaurants and cozy shops. Something for everyone simply.
Ellens guide to Åre
1. Ullådalen – Cross-country skiing in the middle of the mountains with more reindeer than humans and a cozy waffle house along the way.
2. Undersåker – A few minutes before Åre is a small village that has received a real boost. Go here for local delicacies such as Åre's best buns and the finest charcuterie. Visit Majas Bageri and Undersåker's Charcuterie Factory (part of the former Fäviken). Well worth an excursion.
3. Storulvån – In the spring, go to the mountains around Storulvån, a magical place for those who like to go on a summit trip. No lifts or queues for anything.
4. La Gondola – The restaurant Supper's latest addition is located on the Olympic Plateau. Super delicious lunch place with really good food, incredible views and a DJ who contributes to a wonderful atmosphere. Book a later table and let the lunch turn into après ski. There is no more glorious ending after a day on the slopes.
5. Vinbaren – A cozy little restaurant down in the village that has incredible food and good wine.
Åre, Sweden:
Åre, Sweden’s premier ski resort, is a top destination known for its stunning mountain landscapes, vibrant alpine culture, and year-round outdoor activities. The town offers picturesque streets lined with cozy cafes, shops, and restaurants, while the surrounding mountains provide world-class skiing, hiking, and breathtaking views. Whether you’re seeking adventure on the slopes or relaxation in the serene natural beauty, Åre offers the perfect balance of excitement and tranquility, making it an unforgettable retreat for visitors all year round.
