HENK at home with Jantine Vaartjes
In the series 'HENK at home', we visit people who inspire us to give you a glimpse into their daily lives. This time we visit Jantine Vaartjes, the Dutch editor of Scandinavian Living magazine.
Jantine lives in a minimalistic bungalow in Alkmaar with her husband, Chris and their two children. In addition to her work as an editor, she has been a photographer and stylist for many years as Pathou Studio. We talked about her work, her love for interior design, where she finds inspiration, and the role sustainability plays in her life.
How would you describe your interior?
Minimalist but warm, modern but personal, and above all, quiet and serene without too much excess. I can’t identify a specific style in my home. I base my decisions on my feelings and try not to get distracted by what other people think. My initial feeling usually ends up being the right one. I remember the first time I visited Copenhagen - it felt like coming home. That visit confirmed for me that my style was not ‘boring’.
You’re the editor of Scandinavian Living and a stylist and photographer. What inspires you?
I find inspiration everywhere: in shops, on the street, in magazines, in other cities, and on Instagram, where I follow people with their own style. Not just in interior design but also in fashion. I’m inspired by colour combinations, specific design languages, and material choices. My friends know exactly when I like something by the look on my face, whether that’s a particular environment or a person who walks by. It’s so inspiring when someone has their own style and really owns it.
What’s important to you when purchasing a new piece of furniture?
I focus on that first feeling when presented with a new product. Comfort is undoubtedly important, especially in a family with children; in most cases, that
s something I consider when purchasing furniture. It has happened, though, that I’ve been drawn to something because of its shape and comfort was a second thought. I then get a picture in my head of that piece of furniture becoming more of an object in the house. I mainly look at how the piece enters a story that includes the environment and the other furniture.
What’s your favourite room in your house and why?
I don’t have a favourite room, to be honest. Our whole house feels very comforting. Since we completely renovated our bungalow, we have tried to make optimal use of all the areas, and create connections between each space. In the winter, for example, I enjoy being in the study, a second living room with its lovely sofa, lots of dark wood, and our television - we love having movie nights and cocooning at home during the colder months. But in the summer, the doors to the terrace and garden are always open, and we have much more of a connection with the outside, which then becomes the second living space. It almost feels like we’re on vacation.
How does sustainability play a role in your daily life?
Sustainability is an essential part of life, and it comes up daily in my work as an editor. It’s great to see how many initiatives there are in the field of sustainability and how brands are becoming increasingly aware of their role in this. It’s important to look at quality and material when purchasing something new to make sure we’re making more conscious choices. For example, give something a second life by looking at it differently. Or take your time when buying something new when you really need something. You can easily make a difference by changing small things in daily life.
You have chosen our Slant Dining Table and Ode Dining Chairs. What do you like about these designs?
I like the design language of the Slant Dining Table, with its subtle organic shape. It’s not too lavish and just a little different than usual. The table is even more beautiful in real life than in photographs. I’m very happy with the lighter wood colour in combination with our black wooden wall and the dark wooden room divider. Everything becomes just a little softer thanks to this surprising combination and the rounder shapes of the table. The chairs add to this softer touch - they have a timeless design and look great in almost every interior.
