A Swedish Conversion Pushes the Envelope of Unique

From livestock stables to luxurious residence

Upstairs, simple sleeping quarters give off a practical yet comfortable ambiance, as the home is all about comfort, not show. (Courtesy of Sweden Sotheby’s International Realty)

In a world where even the most luxurious properties have begun to take on a kind of cookie-cutter glamour, the rare and unusual are eye-catching. This amazing residence in the heart of Sweden’s most biodiverse nature areas was once used as stables for livestock.

The guest house is simple, yet well-equipped to ensure guest comfort. (Courtesy of Sweden Sotheby’s International Realty)

Set in a quiet country estate outside the town of Bastad, this four-bedroom, two-bath residence underwent a massive reconstruction in 2006. The old livestock stables were reimagined as a luxurious 3,337-square-foot residence. Listed for $1.6 million, the main foundations of the former barn were kept, but the designers opened the building up to offer panoramic views of the rolling hills and the sea in the distance.

This reimagined luxury home is one of the most unique residential properties in Europe. (Courtesy of Sweden Sotheby’s International Realty)

The main residence is comprised of seven rooms in all, including a gourmet kitchen, large social spaces, an amazing formal dining room, and cozy, chic sleeping spaces. The home retains the massive wooden beams and other features of the old barn but blends in a kind of interesting Spartan decadence as well.

A well-appointed office on the upper level overlooks the restful Swedish countryside and the sea beyond. (Courtesy of Sweden Sotheby’s International Realty)

An adjacent 1,507-square-foot guest house adds more living space, more bedrooms, a dining and living room, more storage, and a huge basement. Also on the property is another 1,400 square feet of outbuildings, including a studio, gym, garage, and greenhouse. A fantastic outdoor dining area and a welcoming pool are at the center of the 2.29-acre property, which overlooks the sea and some of rural Sweden’s best nature.

This wonderful home is located just outside one of Sweden’s most popular summer resorts. (Courtesy of Sweden Sotheby’s International Realty)

The province of Bastad—especially its sleepy fishing village of Torekov—is part of one of Sweden’s most beautiful summer resorts, made famous for its boating and as a hangout for big-time tennis stars such as Bjorn Borg, Stefan Edberg, and Mats Wilander. The Swedish Open tournament is held here, and the famous wooden Troentorp clogs are made here as well.

The brilliant contrast of rustic charm highlighted with chic elegance creates an interesting, welcoming atmosphere. (Courtesy of Sweden Sotheby’s International Realty)

Faritslövsvägen 82 Bastad, Skane, Sweden $1.682 million

4 bedrooms 7,858 square feet 2.29 acres

- Unique architecture - Close to the sea/villages - Private pool

The designer’s focus was on providing functionality and livability when redoing the old barn, retaining rustic features whenever possible while adding modern amenities. (Courtesy of Sweden Sotheby’s International Realty)

While the property has manicured elements, it exudes a sense of wild abandon via the natural habitat surrounding it. (Courtesy of Sweden Sotheby’s International Realty)

The outdoor dining/social area by the swimming pool serves as the entertainment hub of the property. (Courtesy of Sweden Sotheby’s International Realty)

The main residence features a facade that is largely unchanged from its former farm glory. (Courtesy of Sweden Sotheby’s International Realty)