At Home with Ida Mårtensson
A Home in Harmony with the Forest – Ida Mårtensson's Dream Project in Gävle
On the outskirts of Gävle, on a forested plot where trees grow tall and the ground exudes natural calm, Ida Mårtensson and her partner Jonas have created their dream home. A house designed with care, rooted in the character of the location, and built with a clear vision of functionality, aesthetics, and longevity.
The idea of building their own house developed gradually. While Jonas had always dreamed of creating his own home, Ida was initially hesitant. “I saw it as such a big project. Why not just renovate a house?” Ida reflects. But when the pandemic hit and interest rates started to rise, it became clear that a newly built house would better suit their needs in the long run—tailored to their lifestyle and preferences.
With a combination of practicality, creativity, and careful planning, the project took shape. The couple designed the house together, and with the help of an architect, the lines and details were refined. From their first visit to the plot to moving in, scheduled for spring 2024, the process was both quick and smooth, thanks to clear goals and dedicated contractors.
Ida and Jonas’s home is a tribute to the land it stands on. Nestled in the forest, it was important that the house felt anchored in its surroundings. Earthy tones, dark oak, and stone materials create a harmonious whole that mirrors the landscape outside. The muted color palette and tactile material choices contribute to a calm and cozy atmosphere, allowing nature to take center stage—both indoors and out.
Following trends has never been Ida's goal. Instead, it’s about finding a personal expression. “The most important thing is that your home reflects you and your family. Something that lasts over time. Just like with hair trends—just because something is popular doesn’t mean it’s right for you. Dare to create your own style,” she says. This grounded aesthetic is reflected in every room, where every detail has its place and purpose.
For Ida, choosing the interior doors was essential to the overall feel of the home. "We knew what we wanted even before the house was designed. When we found Njord, it was an obvious choice, both in form and quality. It's not just a door—it’s a piece of furniture," Ida explains.
Ida works as a marketing manager and simultaneously shares her passion for interior design on social media under the name @idismartensson. There, she inspires her followers with color, form, and personal design choices, often drawn from her own home. The house in Gävle is the result of many decisions, a strong vision, and meticulous execution. It’s proof of what you can achieve when you dare to follow your dreams.
Ida's best advice for anyone dreaming of building or transforming their home:
- Plan carefully. “The more you prepare, the smoother the process will be.”
- Create a cohesive theme. Choosing colors and materials that harmonize will give your home a clear identity.
- Find your style. The most important thing is that the house reflects you and your family, rather than following fleeting trends.
Location: Gävle
Home: Ida Mårtensson | @idismartensson
Products: Oak | Door frame k03