The Nordic Nomad

Nordic tastemakers

My Nordics, as told by architect Andreas Martin-Löf

The Nordics • Nordic lifestyle • Nordic tastemakers • My Nordics, as told by architect Andreas Martin-Löf

An insider’s guide to the Nordics with Andreas Martin-Löf

Andreas Martin-Löf’s architectural journey is one of intuition, serendipity and a profound connection to the craft. Initially set on a path to furniture design, life’s twists led him into architecture, where he found his true calling. His architecture, infused with a passion for materials, craftsmanship and the tactile experience of space, challenges the industry’s norms, advocating for buildings with soul and spaces that genuinely feel good.

In his practice, Martin-Löf moves seamlessly between residential projects, real estate development and, with Landet, a series of refined rural cabins, ventures into hospitality. His work, celebrated for its warmth, innovation and the ability to tell stories through architecture, continues to push the boundaries of the field. Here, he shares what he loves most about the Nordic region.

“There’s a more relaxed atmosphere there that I really enjoy.”

In the Nordics, my favourite country is …

… Sweden, since it’s my home. I have a very strong attachment to Sweden, even though I’m spending more and more time in Spain.

For a dose of urban pulse, I head to …

… Copenhagen because it’s the only city in the Nordics that has a somewhat continental feel. There’s a more relaxed atmosphere there that I really enjoy.

“… summer isn’t complete without one or two trips to the islands far out in the Baltic Sea …”

For the perfect close-to-nature experience, I visit …

… the outer Stockholm archipelago. A few years back, I designed my own boat, so summer isn’t complete without one or two trips to the islands far out in the Baltic Sea, where the archipelago is untamed and the sea’s presence is undeniable.

For a memorable getaway, I check myself into …

… Landet, a series of remote cottages I designed just outside of Stockholm, which I’m keen to try out right now. Hotel Sanders in Copenhagen also ranks high on my list of favourites.

“Teatergrillen [is] a spot I enjoy returning to for both the food and the atmosphere.”

For a great meal, I go to …

… Teatergrillen in Stockholm, a spot I enjoy returning to for both the food and the atmosphere.

For a fun night out, I head to …

… wherever my friends are, as the venues vary greatly and it’s difficult to specify just one location.

“These locations offer insights into two very different sculptors …”

For a dose of retail therapy, I shop at …

… Stockholm tailoring house Saman Amel for the exceptional service and exquisite tailoring.

For a dose of culture, I head to …

… Carl Eldhs Ateljé and Millesgården in Stockholm. These locations offer insights into two very different sculptors, providing distinct experiences of place and architecture.

“There’s so much history and beauty in those buildings.”

For a hidden gem, I recommend …

… visiting our Royal castles. In the Nordics, we still have three monarchies: Denmark, Norway and Sweden. There’s so much history and beauty in those buildings.

For me, a quintessential Nordic experience is …

… driving through Sweden from Stockholm to the north. It’s a unique way to explore the culture and countryside. I’d probably say try to avoid eating Filé Black and White, a common dish with beef and pork fillets, and opt for something else to explore a wider variety of local cuisine.