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By Joanna Goddard, Cup of Jo

Photographer Mari Eriksson's prints reveals simple pleasures--like flowers in a vase or scissors with twine. And her home reflects that same aesthetic; its white walls and decor that make the space feel inspiring, like a fresh piece of paper. Her boys Milo, 5, and Misha, 3, and her engineer husband Finn are lucky to share it. Let's take a peek inside...
 
Where do you live in Sweden?
I live in a small town just south of Stockholm called Sodertalje. We live on a residential street close to the center. I really love it here.

How did you meet your husband?
Dancing salsa. We're both keen salsa and tango dancers.

Which language do you speak to your children?
I speak Swedish to them and my husband French. Milo knows a bit of English since his paternal grandma is American and speaks only English to the boys.

What a bright and lovely kitchen.
Before, it was all original 70's style with green cabinets. The kitchen was totally gutted and then fitted with four different 1950's-style kitchens that we bought online.

Why did you choose to have all white walls?
I like the house to feel calm and relaxed. My stuff gives it color anyway.

Why do you have a map of Australia in your office?
We lived in Australia for three years, so it's a fond memory of our stay.

What a great photo mobile! And is that a picture of your baby on the wall?
Yes, I took that picture of Misha when he was six months.

What do you work on here?
I enjoy making cards and sewing. Above the chest, I keep my "mood board," where I put things that inspire me, like a picture or a piece of tissue.

Is this your children's playroom?
It's their craft room, which is close to the kitchen so I can keep an eye on them. The cupboard is full of craft materials.

How did you choose your children's names?
I was pregnant with Milo when we moved to Melbourne. They have a drink there called Milo, and I liked it. Misha I got from a boy in my youth called Misha.

What are your kids' hobbies?
Running around and playing and watching French children's programs.

Your bedroom is beautiful. What's your favorite part?
I love the antique Italian chandelier and big white cupboard.

What a pretty table.
I ran into a man on the street who was cleaning out his parents' old house and after standing there chatting he offered to show me the house. It was full of antiques, as if time had been standing still. He gave me this beautiful table that nobody in his family wanted. He also gave me 1960's wallpaper and a white glass bowl. That made my week!

What advice do you have for new decorators?
Find your style with old pieces, art and creative solutions. A home is something that shows your personality. The worst thing is when everything is copied from a catalog.

Photography by Mari and styling by Louise Sareld. These photos appeared in Allt i hemmet, a Swedish magazine. For more, visit Mari's blog and her photography site. Find past Cookie house tours here.