and would want to own myself. In this way, my gallery is very person-

al and matches my taste.”

The spacious living area, originally two separate rooms, is the hub of

Anne’s gallery – at one end, book-filled shelving modules, gallery wall

and office, and at the other, a calm oasis of modern sofas and classic

armchair designs. The living area is kept in a palette of soothing neu-

trals enlivened by sculptures and colourful artworks, as light from the

large French door windows floods the room.

“I love to sit at the corner windows and gaze out onto the street be-

low,” she muses.

Layered tufted wool rugs and tactile materials up the comfort level

while vintage designs stand alongside modern pieces such as ferm

LIVING’s Rico Lounge Chair and Rotben Sculptural Piece. Beyond

the art on display, Anne’s favourite objects include a vintage confer-

ence table that is now used as a desk. Gifted to her by her late father,

“it reminds me of my dad, who is sorely missed,” she says. “I’ve had it

for years, but still love it and sit at it every day.”

Anne and Christian took over the expansive space in 2019, quickly

realising its potential.

“We fell in love with the light, the view and the beautiful old windows.

The street has an almost Parisian vibe, lined with old trees, cafes and

with the park at the top,” she explains.

The family wanted to create a home in motion, but one that was

practical and not just for show. Keeping the period features that lend

the space character – decorative ceiling cornices and wood-panelled

walls that now serve as shelves for displaying art – they set about cre-

ating a family home that was comfortable yet inspiring.

With a steady stream of teenagers, family, friends and clients, her

home is very much put to the test. From the patina of the original

wooden floors to the holes in the walls from artworks that have been

sold, the rooms bear witness to the life lived there.

“Myhomeisusedforalotofthings–andIlikeitthatway.Tome,a

good home is one filled with good people and a relaxed atmosphere.

You shouldn’t be afraid of using your home. And, of course, I love to

live with beautiful and interesting art. It keeps my eyes and my mind

alert. I just hope people feel welcome and inspired when they visit,”

she muses.

But opening a home to others can present challenges: “Sometimes

I feel that everything is a mess at home – if the kids are sick or I’ve

been to a party. Even when I’m tired I have to keep it looking nice or

it becomes too personal,” Anne admits.

“I like having so many different kinds of people coming here. It’s a

privilege to be surrounded by beautiful art all the time – although it

can be difficult to let go of certain pieces when they find new homes.”

While her husband and sons are mostly understanding of the fact

that their home is a revolving door and appreciate the art, “some-

times I forget to mention that I have client appointments – my family

run into strangers in the kitchen when they have just woken up and

are getting their breakfast!” she laughs.

With a master’s in Art History, Anne Aasland has worked with art in various

ways over the years. Today, Anne co-runs Kunstsalonen while also using her

private home as an art gallery, open to family, friends and clients alike.

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