Hi everyone,
I hope you’re enjoying the holiday season with your loved ones.
It’s been a while since I last shared anything here, and honestly, I’ve struggled to find the right words to start this overdue post. But here I am, taking the first step.
Life at home has been marked by dramatic and transformative events that forced us to face life the hard way. The growing pains and lingering trauma have been significant, and the healing process will take time. But now, as we slowly find our way back to a sense of normalcy, I can finally say that things are beginning to look up. With cautious optimism, I hope this marks the beginning of a brighter 2025.
After much reflection, I’ve decided to return to the corporate world after being fully dedicated to Nordic Design for the last 12 years. This decision wasn’t easy, but it felt necessary. I needed to step back and gain some perspective on my business—what I loved about it, what I didn’t, and what truly motivated me through the years.
In recent times, I’ve felt somewhat lost amidst the ever-changing trends and shifts in interior design. The lines between styles have blurred, leaving me searching for direction. The rapid pace of the online world, combined with the constant marathon of running a blog and meeting Google’s ever-changing SEO requirements and algorithm demands, took its toll. Writing about the latest lounge chair started to feel shallow, like I was merely fueling consumerism. The beautiful lifestyle images that once inspired me began to have the opposite effect. They made me feel inadequate, highlighting everything my own home wasn’t. Instead of sparking ideas, they magnified flaws. That’s when I knew I needed to take a step back—for myself, my family, and my peace of mind.
Now, as inspiration slowly returns, I still don’t know exactly what lies ahead for Nordic Design. but I’m not ready to say goodbye just yet (despite what my accountant might say, ha!). There are still sparks of passion for interior design that I want to share. I want to hear about your DIY projects and renovations, or how you found that perfect lamp or wall color that brings you joy. I want this community to thrive, and I want to show up there authentically—from a place of vulnerability and honesty.
I don’t have a content schedule or clear objectives, but I’ll take things one step at a time. I might dabble with posts here and there, share thoughts on topics that move me, or even ask for your input. And hopefully, if you’re still here, we can navigate this together and have fun :)
In the meantime, I hope life is kind to you and your loved ones. Wishing you warmth, joy, and happiness in the year ahead.
With love,
Catherine
Photo: Artilleriet
Please keep it going! Your blog is a favorite. I still check it regularly, hoping for new posts!
A heartfelt and inspiring read! Wishing you the best as you embark on your next chapter.
Thanks for the update, Catherine! I know we are all struggling with a lot as things continue to change at more rapid paces than in the past.
One thing in your post that stands out to me: blurred styles. As someone who works for a major company in the beverage industry, blurring is a huge trend across the board. For me, it’s why do they choose a beverage? It used to be about refreshment or energy, but today, we see beverages that can refresh and provide energy. My point is that despite blurring styles, our “brand” (Nordic/Scandinavian design in this case) must stay true to its core, but can reach across into other areas. Is it possible that we could have a Nordic English? Sure! The best thing about today is how we can blur lines to make our own style: It’s more unique overall, but is uniquely us as our homes should be.
We must follow our passions and this site has been a huge inspiration for me over the last 5 or so years. Thank you for keeping it going. :)
I’m so glad you’re back and taking things one step at a time. Wishing you all the best as you navigate this new chapter with honesty and warmth. Thank you for the amazing post.
I am so glad to read your words . It has been a longest time . We all have setbacks and need time to reflect . I am in that situation too , but very happy to see your posting here again . It is a very challenging time indeed . I wish you all the best and for sure I am always please to read your life perspective . All the best .
A heartfelt and inspiring journey of self-discovery! Wishing you the best on what’s ahead.
Over the years, I have really enjoyed your blog. It feels as if I started enjoying your blog in a more “innocent” time, as so much has changed over the last few years. With all you had shared in your December 2024 post, I am interested to see where you might take the blog. It sounds like you are looking for a way to broaden your scope and expand what design can mean. I’m here for it and interested to see where you go. Also, as a Canadian, in this particular time, does that have any baring on where you might go with your blog? Best wishes.
Your honesty and vulnerability in sharing this chapter are both inspiring and grounding. It’s beautiful to see growth and clarity emerge from moments of uncertainty.
Your reflections are so beautifully honest—it takes courage to share this kind of journey. Excited to see where your next chapter leads!
“Beautifully written! Your reflections show real strength, and it’s inspiring to see you embracing the next chapter with such clarity.”