A Blogger with Style: Monika Claassen from Splendid Willow

I’m starting this new series today called “A blogger with Style” where I’m going to profile a blogger and friend who has style in any area of her life.  Frequency of this series, for now, will be irregular but eventually it’ll work its way up to every Friday.  I could not possibly pick another blogger to kick off this series than Monika Claassen from Splendid Willow.  Not only for Monika’s kindness towards others but also because, yes she is “A blogger with Style“.  And in this particular case, in every area of her life. 

Some Interior Designers are in the business by calling or by good taste.  I think in Monika’s case it’s both.  “I remember drawing rooms in the sand with a large stick and decorating them for as long as I could until my older brother and his friends kicked me off the field…” she says.   Her house was recently featured in the last issue of Rue Magazine and it doesn’t take anyone by surprise the laid back elegance atmosphere with a good dose of Swedish influence that accentuates the warmth and coziness.
Monika describes her style as edgy classic with a Swedish twist  and I think she successfully translates that into her interiors.  Monika is not only an Interior Designer, she is also an entrepreneur.  Importing Swedish goods like the beautiful Ilse Jacobsen rain gear to the US market.  You can visit her shop here.  Below are a few images, including never before seen shots of her beautiful home that Monika was kind to share with us.  Thank you Monika for accepting to be part of this new series!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Above is a sneak peak into Monika’s son’s room, which is already showing signs of a little boy’s beautiful and creative room with that edgy Swedish design that characterizes Monika’s style.  I can’t wait to see the final result.

20 thoughts on “A Blogger with Style: Monika Claassen from Splendid Willow

  1. designchic

    You couldn't have picked a better person to start this new series…she's wonderful!! Her home is so beautiful and I'm totally obsessed with the blue chest…fabulous!!

  2. classiq

    Wonderful new series, Julie. What a beautiful home! Monika is so talented. So many interesting design elements, like the mirror above the blue night stand in the bedroom and those prints (I'm not sure what to call them) right next to it, how lovely. An inspiring home. Hope you have a great weekend! :)Ada

  3. Bourbon&Pearls

    I love the exterior of that house, it's beautiful as is the interior, some people are so good at the art of living.

  4. quintessence

    Fun – as you know I like these kinds of things :-). Love Monika and it was wonderful to see her in Rue and now here. She has fabulous style – perfect kick off for your series.

  5. Splendid Willow

    Hi my friend,

    I am blushing all the way to Seattle! Thank you so much for letting me kick-start your new series. I am looking forward to following it.

    And from now on we will focus on YOU and all your wonderful design work, Julie. You are the one to follow!

    Love to you and happy weekend.

    Mon

  6. meenal@maison marigold

    This looks like a fun series, julie!I had loved Monica's house featured in rue..she has a very distinctive style..very natural..love the shots of her home you have featured here..particularly all the gilded frames! have a lovely weekend..xx meenal

  7. Casa Très Chic

    Hi, Julie!
    Monika's house is beautiful.
    You had a fantastic idea with these series.
    I'll be watching your blog.
    Big hugs
    Tereza

  8. Karena

    Julie this is just a delight. I love that you featured Monica, she is so talented!! Her home is gorgeous!!

    xoxo
    Karena
    Art by Karena

  9. Charlotta Ward

    Yes she certainly is beautiful inside out and her home is a reflection of that.

    So enjoyed the feature and also her follow up pictures of the other day.

    x Charlotta

  10. Splenderosa

    Yes, Julie, what a brilliant woman to feature in this new series of yours. I think you should definitely do this regularly on Fridays when you can find the time. I love it!! xx's

  11. Greet

    Julie,

    I love Monika! She is a wonderful friend and she is sooo talented! Her house is beautiful and I do love that Swedish touch she had brought in!
    Great post!!
    xx
    Greet

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