Designed by Simone prior to joining reimagined habitat

This Scandinavian home design in Melbourne demonstrates how compact, affordable and energy-efficient family living can be combined with the warmth and simplicity of Swedish-inspired design.

Created for a young family, the home was designed to maximise natural light, functionality and comfort while maintaining a calm and spacious atmosphere throughout. Inspired by modern Swedish homes, the design focuses on making every square metre purposeful, practical and connected to everyday living.

The double-storey layout makes efficient use of space while maintaining an open and airy feel across the home. At the centre of the ground floor is a generous open-plan kitchen, living and dining area designed to support relaxed family life and entertaining. Two secondary bedrooms are positioned privately to one side, while the master suite, complete with walk-in robe and ensuite, provides a comfortable retreat for the parents.

Upstairs, a bright study area creates a flexible work-from-home or creative space, while an additional bedroom and bathroom offer privacy for guests, teenagers or extended family members.

The outdoor spaces were designed to feel simple, welcoming and connected to the home. A clean and understated carport frames the front façade, while the backyard opens to a generous deck and pergola designed for outdoor dining, entertaining and relaxed family living.

The home draws strongly from Scandinavian and Nordic design principles, balancing simplicity, warmth and practicality. Blue weatherboards paired with crisp white render create a timeless exterior palette, while carefully selected IKEA fixtures and fittings reinforce the home’s affordable and cohesive Scandinavian character.

Performance and comfort were also central to the design. With an impressive 8-Star NatHERS rating, the home delivers excellent year-round thermal comfort while helping reduce ongoing energy consumption and running costs for the family.

This Forest Hill home demonstrates how thoughtful, compact design can create a bright, elegant and highly functional family home without compromising affordability, comfort or sustainability.

Designing for comfort and efficiency

The home was carefully designed to maximise natural light, thermal comfort and everyday functionality within a compact footprint. Large windows, thoughtful orientation and open-plan living areas help create bright and welcoming spaces throughout the day.

An 8-Star NatHERS rating supports lower ongoing energy consumption while improving year-round comfort for the family. The project demonstrates how Scandinavian-inspired design principles can support practical, affordable and energy-efficient living without compromising warmth or simplicity.

Builder: Coy’s Construction

Photography: Tizia May