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June 24.2025
3 Minutes Read

Discover How Two Swedish Surfers Create a Surf and Wellness Haven in Sri Lanka

Tranquil room in Surf and Wellness Haven in Sri Lanka with rustic decor.

Swedish Surfers Find Their Paradise in Sri Lanka

In the serene village of Ahangama, located along the sun-kissed southern coast of Sri Lanka, the dream of two adventurous Swedes has bloss into a vibrant community hub for wellness and surf culture. Linn Lundgren and Petter Toremalm, travelers at heart, fell in love with not only each other but the lifestyle they envisioned: one where health, happiness, and the waves amalgamate.

The Journey Begins: From Sweden to Sri Lanka

Linn and Petter’s love story started in the countryside of southern Sweden, where they shared dreams of exploration and, surprisingly, an uncommon passion—surfing. From the outset, they both knew they were destined for more than a conventional path, having deferred university to embark on a journey that took them across South Africa, India, and beyond, chronicling their adventures on their blog, Sunshine Stories.

Creating a Tropical Sanctuary: Sunshine Stories Surf Camp

Fast forward nine years, after immersing themselves in various cultures, they returned to Sri Lanka and established their surf and yoga retreat, Sunshine Stories. Their camp comprises two colonial villas, one for them and the other for guests, both nestled within a lush landscape of mango and banana trees, just a stone's throw from the ocean’s edge.

Here, the couple has integrated elements that reflect their heritage while honoring the local culture—a true blend of Swedish style with tropical charm. This unique approach not only enhances their living space but is a testament to their belief in creating environments that foster well-being.

Health and Well-being: Embracing Sustainable Living

The ethos behind Sunshine Stories extends beyond surf; it's about nurturing the mind, body, and spirit. Linn and Petter have woven sustainable practices into their daily lives. For instance, they have made significant upgrades to their home, addressing maintenance issues such as the terracotta roof that had fallen victim to mischievous monkeys. Their approach serves as a reminder to all homeowners, especially those in the MidSouth, on the importance of maintaining their living space as a sanctuary of wellness and comfort.

Why Surfing and Yoga? The Connection to Wellness

The combination of surfing and yoga at Sunshine Stories promotes not just physical health but also mental clarity. Surfing provides a fantastic cardiovascular workout, while yoga helps cultivate balance and mindfulness. For homeowners seeking holistic health solutions, these activities offer a template to incorporate wellness into everyday living, whether at home or abroad.

What You Can Take Away from Their Journey

For homeowners, especially those focusing on wellness and lifestyle improvement, Linn and Petter’s story emphasizes an important lesson: **create spaces that reflect your values**. Whether through beach-inspired decor or a meditation nook, you can cultivate environments that nourish creativity and peace.

Moreover, their journey encourages exploration and adventure within your everyday life. Try yoga, explore a new hobby, or even create a cozy nook in your home where you can unwind and reflect.

Future Visions for Sunshine Stories

As they look ahead, Linn and Petter aim to expand their retreat further. This includes hosting more community events, workshops focusing on sustainable living, and engaging more deeply with local cultures and techniques. By doing so, they inspire visitors and locals alike to embrace a lifestyle that is not only about surf but also conscious living.

Embrace Wellness in Your Life

If the story of Linn and Petter resonates with you, it might be time to reassess your own home environment and lifestyle choices. How can you make your space a true reflection of your values? Consider adding elements of tranquility and adventure into your daily routine. Similarly, if you've ever dreamed of exploring the world—now might just be your chance.

Embarking on a journey of wellness and adventure might just lead you to create a life you truly love!

So, as you plan your next home renovation or lifestyle change, let the ethos of Sunshine Stories inspire you. Remember, it’s not just about building a space; it’s about creating a life filled with meaning.

Home Improvement & Remodeling

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10.31.2025

Discover the Magic of Bovina Farm: Cozy Lodgings for Wellness Seekers

Update A Cozy Retreat: Exploring Bovina Farm & Fermentory Nestled in the heart of upstate New York, Bovina is transforming from a quaint community known for its pastoral beauty into a charming destination for wellness and relaxation, thanks to Bovina Farm & Fermentory. Run by the industrious couple, Elizabeth Starks and Jacob Sackett, this gem now welcomes overnight guests to experience not just its delightful culinary offerings, but also its thoughtfully designed lodgings, which blend Scandinavian and Shaker styles. The Vision Behind the Inn Since its inception in 2019, Bovina Farm has evolved considerably. Elizabeth and Jacob have infused their backgrounds and passions into the property, creating spaces that reflect warmth, simplicity, and sustainability. The couple recently opened a new guest cottage and renovated the Pasture Room, both designed with natural materials and local aesthetics in mind. Their mission is clear: to offer visitors a cozy environment where they can unwind amid stunning views of rolling hills and farms. Innovative Design Meets Comfort At Bovina Farm, the interior spaces evoke a harmonious balance between comfort and natural beauty. The guest accommodations prioritize airy layouts and comforting elements. Elizabeth notes, “We wanted the inn spaces to match the simple, airy interiors of the dining room but to infuse warmth and coziness.” This includes thoughtfully chosen decor, from rustic wooden stools beside the bed to inviting linen sheets that encourage restful nights. The Cottage: A Case Study in Sustainable Living The freestanding Cottage is the heart of this new venture, representing the couple’s commitment to sustainability. Built from the ground up using local materials and traditional techniques, it features a small solar array and is off-grid, making it an eco-friendly retreat. Its green walls and cherry wood floors echo the surrounding landscape, creating a space that feels inherently part of the natural environment. Guests often find it hard to leave, drawn into the tranquility and simplicity of their surroundings. A Culinary Journey and Community Connection Moreover, Bovina Farm isn't just about beautiful lodgings; it’s a place where the culinary experience shines. Guests are treated to sumptuous breakfasts featuring local ingredients, with offerings including homemade rye sourdough and organic farm sausages. Elizabeth says, "Breakfast is our favorite time of day—I would say to order one of everything!" This focus on food not only enhances the guest experience but also fosters a sense of community as people gather around communal tables to share meals. Why Bovina is a Must-Visit With the increasing interest in rural retreats that promote health and wellness, Bovina stands out as a destination that combines a commitment to sustainability, exceptional hospitality, and engaging local culture. For homeowners in the MidSouth looking to rejuvenate their spirits and appreciate more natural lifestyles, Bovina offers an idyllic escape. The charm of Bovina Farm & Fermentory lies not only in its beautiful accommodations but also in its dedication to creating a meaningful connection with nature and the community. Where to Next? If the allure of Bovina intrigues you, consider planning your getaway today. With unique lodging options and a focus on community and sustainability, this destination has much to offer. Book your stay at Bovina Farm + Fermentory and immerse yourself in the charm of upstate New York. For more cozy retreats and autumn experiences, don’t hesitate to explore additional nearby lodges that reflect similar values in hospitality and design—like Inness or Wildflower Farms—each offering a different slice of comfort among nature.

10.30.2025

Transform Your Space: Embrace the Moody Loft Kitchen Trend Today

Update Exploring the Allure of Moody Loft KitchensThe latest reveal at the 10 AM Lofts in Athens showcases the stunning creativity of designer Andrew Trotter, whose revitalization of a former warehouse space has generated buzz among design enthusiasts. The moody loft kitchen features a captivating blend of modern aesthetics with vintage appeal, effortlessly combining function and beauty. For homeowners in the MidSouth looking to create a similar vibe, Trotter’s use of dark, stained wood cabinetry and polished black stone floors presents an inspiring template.Design Elements That Exude Raw LuxuryIn this loft kitchen, limewashed plaster walls and striking brass accents enhance the feeling of 'raw luxury'—a term coined by the designers to encapsulate the space's unique character. The kitchen's honed Carrara marble countertops add a touch of elegance, while vintage elements, such as the farmhouse dining table surrounded by Charlotte Perriand chairs, emphasize a heartfelt connection to the past. Consider integrating your own vintage finds into your design, bringing personality and authenticity to your modern space.Making Health and Wellness a Priority in Home DesignAs you contemplate your kitchen redesign, remember to keep health and wellness at the forefront. The materials chosen can significantly impact indoor air quality, especially in kitchens where cooking frequently occurs. Opt for natural, non-toxic paints and finishes—such as the Mykonos limewash used in this loft—while ensuring sufficient ventilation with thoughtfully designed layouts. Emphasizing wellness in home design doesn't just promote a healthier living environment; it cultivates a nurturing space for families.Blending Modern Innovations with Timeless DesignsThe creators behind this moody kitchen haven’t overlooked modern conveniences. State-of-the-art appliances, including a custom-made range hood and a farmhouse sink, seamlessly integrate with vintage aesthetics. The choice of wall sconces from Mallorca-based lighting studio Contain suggests that functionality doesn't have to sacrifice style. Selecting high-quality, durable materials will, in the long run, elevate your space while keeping it functional for daily use.Creating an Inviting AtmosphereCreating an inviting kitchen isn't just about appearance; it’s about atmosphere. Trotter’s design employs light-filtering window treatments that allow natural light to invade the space, fostering an inviting ambiance. In your kitchen, consider how you can manipulate light through window placements or the strategic use of mirrors to elevate the mood and make the area feel warm and welcoming.A Sustainable Approach to DesignIncorporating sustainable practices in kitchen design is becoming essential, particularly among health-conscious homeowners. Trotter's commitment to balancing modern living with sustainability highlights the availability of materials like reclaimed wood and low-VOC paints. Alongside this, local sources—such as shops that sell vintage and upcycled items—can serve as sustainable outlets for those treasure-seeking moments, where one can find unique products while supporting local artisans.If you're looking for design inspiration, why not explore your local home improvement stores and artisan markets to discover what speaks to you? The best designs often emerge from mixes of new and old, modern and rustic, creating a personal oasis that feels just right.

10.29.2025

Transform Your MidSouth Home: Architects' Top Black Paint Picks

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