Norwegian Wood

Norwegian Wood: New York

It's a picture of minimalist Scandi style housed within a quintessential New York brownstone built in the 1800s, in one of the most sought-after neighbourhoods in Brooklyn – Fort Greene. Designed by a local architect to bring the calming presence of nature into the home, this pocket of tranquillity will knock your fluffy white socks off. Stepping in to look around at the decor, you'll find plenty of light wood furnishings and wood-slatted blinds, vibrant pops of colour, tasteful artwork and playful cloud-shaped cushions that we really loved. It's quiet, understated, and extremely functional. Enjoy a good book in the breathable and refreshing living space made of natural materials and traditional craftsmanship. Take a long soak in the stone and wood bathroom, whip up a few lite bites in the pristine island kitchen, or pen your thoughts at the antique public library desk – whatever you do around this peaceful apartment, you'll be perfectly at ease. Out back there is even a small terrace for some fresh air, enclosed by leafy trees for a naturally private space. The neighbourhood is authentically residential Brooklyn, lined with trees and townhouses with their iconic stoops. Take a wander by the casual eateries, hip bars and indie shops, before reaching the beautiful expanse of Prospect Park, only a twenty-minute stroll from your door.

Home truths:
*Guests will have to climb the front stoop of ten steps to get to the front door, which is not ideal for guests with limited mobility or heavy luggage
*From this Brooklyn neighbourhood, it takes thirty minutes by local train to get into Midtown
*The hosts live in the apartment above, which is a good thing for the most part but may not suit some guests
*The sofas are more of a bench with cushions
*With advance notice, the hosts are happy for a child to make use of an available air mattress and sleep in the small alcove adjacent to the bedroom
*There's no microwave in the kitchen