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Gunillaberg part 3

By Brittany

June 17, 2013
I’m finally finishing off the Gunillaberg trip (see part one of the entrance, and two of the interiors). If you’re just joining in, my mom visited us in Copenhagen last September and we took a day trip to the summer home of floral artist/sculptor, Tage Andersen, in Sweden. The palace is the former home of the first Swedish representative to America and Mr. Andersen has turned it into his home and playground. It’s open to the public as an indoor/outdoor museum. He’s just opened up a brand new orangerie and I’m dying to go back to see it. Today I’m showing the more remote parts of the property: the gazebo, bathroom, cafe, and reflecting pool. Now, pick your chin from off the ground and let’s do this.

This gazebo is where Liesel and Rolph should have chosen for their 16 going on 17 number. Isn’t it subtly gorgeous with the monochromatic painting along the frieze? This is the site of my next paper flower workshop…I wish.

The pathway leading up to the palace and a close-up of the handmade twig table inside the gazebo. Plus, a little lake. You know.
This might be one of the most magical elements of the whole property: the reflecting pool and topiaries. This is when I really wish I knew how to take a photo. I saw a much better version on pinterest awhile back and can’t seem to find it again. Rats. 
Now, this is what I would DIE to see. Mr. Andersen planted 1,000 lilies (as described in the sign, below) on the outskirts of his property. Can you imagine? I die. Sadly, we visited in September so, no lilies to be seen, only a funky monkey wanna be that’s super crazy. Here’s somebody’s photo of the 1000 lilies in bloom
Before the trip, I talked to Monz, Mr. Andersen’s assistant, in the Copenhagen studio, and he told me to watch out for the bathroom. Why, you ask? Because THIS is it:

 Covered in hay.

The cafe is a tent-like structure…
…complete with a bird cage. I DIE.

Guys! Are you dying here with me? I mean, have you seen such beauty? Come on! In my dreams, I’m back again exploring the new orangerie and soaking in the wildflowers.

ALSO, did you know that there’s a tradition in Sweden for May Day that all the girls collect wildflowers, put them under their pillow, and then they supposedly dream about their husband? CRAZY! Swedes, is this for real? I read it somewhere on the web. Someone please confirm!

EDIT: My lovely Scandnavian commenters have told me that it’s for Midsummer, NOT May Day. But glad to see it’s confirmed. Thank you!

Take a look at part 1 and part 2

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