The zen, Scandinavian-inspired interior of Maren Lundehn © Pete Helme

Maren Lundehn turned her dreams for interior design into a reality when she founded her design firm MURRON interiors. Working from her studio in Somerset, England she helps international clientele create their own tranquil retreats. She offers holistic design aligned with the Nordic design principles of light, simplicity and soul combined with an inclination for the organic and natural. Take a tour of her home with Artsper and discover her clean and fresh design, its zen ambiance, as well her design tips and inspiration.

1. Hello Maren! How would you describe your interior design style and where do you draw your inspiration from at the start of a design project? 

I am very much drawn to the Nordic design principles. My passion is creating thought-out interiors with a strong sense of simplicity, light and soul. I am always looking for ways to encourage the flow of light through a building. White also plays an important role in my designs, because it reflects the natural light the best and functions as such a great canvas for art, furniture and everything that happens within the space.

As I am working globally, every project and every location is truly unique. At the beginning of a new project I create a strong and precise brief, based on the rapport with my clients, focusing on their habits, their needs, their dreams etc. The interior concept should always connect with the landscape and scenery around- either in harmony or in contrast. This period of conceptual exploration is crucial to create something special. Nothing should be rushed. Amazing things take time.

Use white space as the canvas for both your furniture and art, in order to decorate the room without overwhelming it © Pete Helme

2. What have been some of your favorite past projects since creating your own design studio?

I know it sounds boring, but I love every project! I only take on clients who are approachable, good-hearted and who appreciate the added value I bring. Therefore every project has been selected with care. I actually love the variety of project types I am working on. From the rustic lakeside cabin in the Swedish woods to the sophisticated and luxurious country home on Mallorca, nothing is ever the same. Every project starts from scratch, and that's what I truly love.

3. Artwork, specifically minimalist art, seems to be an important part of your designs. In your opinion, what links can be established between art and interior design? 

Emotions. Both, art and design, arouse emotions. That's the link. Sometimes a space needs no artwork at all- it is complete as it is. But often a drawing, a sculpture or a painting creates either a kind of excitement or a kind of harmony. Art can function as a focal point, but at the end art in a space is inspiration- like interior design. Design, however, also integrates science, practicality and problem solving into it.

4. What artistic or cultural venue in the world inspires you the most or are you most fond of?

Nature is my biggest inspiration. Watching the Northern Lights in the silence of the Finnish woods, walking in the Scottish Highlands in autumn, standing at the sea shore… the simplicity of nature but also its complexity is really touching to me. But if I have to name a venue, the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao is on my bucket list. And I love the Tate Modern Museum in London.

Natural materials and minimalist furniture contribute to a serene, peaceful atmosphere © Pete Helme

5. Which artists or artistic movements serve as sources of inspiration to you?

I don't think I favor a specific movement, but as already mentioned, I do love art that touches my soul. I am drawn to watercolor art as well as pencil sketches and I definitely love contemporary expressionism.

6. You're based in Somerset, England, but were born in Germany. How do you feel these different environments have influenced your aesthetic approach?

Somewhere in my family history I also have Swedish roots which could explain where my aesthetic comes from. Having lived nearly my entire life in Germany I definitely got a good sense for quality materials, craftsmanship and production. But what I experienced during the last 5 years here in the UK is a British fondness for nature and coziness in terms of style. German craft design met British soul. My designs include this combination- timeless and carefully-crafted quality in a soulful and emotional surrounding.

I also travel a lot and always get inspired by visiting new countries. Spending a lot of time in northern countries I learned to appreciate their natural, understated elegance. I am very much drawn to the Nordic simplicity and their laid-back functionality. And here again is the bridge to Germany, where the Bauhaus movement comes from .

7. And finally, what advice would you give to someone who wants to refresh their space, but by only changing one aspect of their interior? 

I would encourage you to paint all walls in a subtle white tone and either invest in an eye-catching artwork or create something unique yourself. And don't forget that appealing all your senses can massively change the appearance of a space. Think of scent, texture, music, light… You don't need to spend thousands of euros to create an inspiring environment. All in all, design is a composition that sparks all your senses and evokes emotion.

Placing minimalist art in a symmetrical format create a harmonious interior © Pete Helme