Scandinavian Design Brings Thoughts of Slow Living: From the Mind of Anna Christian
Simple living and a love for design is nothing new for Anna Christian. You could say that it’s in her DNA. Her heritage has shaped the way she interacts and views the world. In this way, many of her values resonate with us at Hanson Leather. We hope that her insight on a slowed and natural living is an inspiration to you.
If you get the opportunity to speak with her or follow her socials, it’s very clear that a slow, natural, and intentional lifestyle is incredibly important to her as well as to her family. We’d all agree that the world we live in is filled with overcrowded schedules and endless demands that make us desire, at the very least, some time to slow down and experience a little hygge. We believe Anna would say that this only comes with intentional design.
Anna has graciously agreed to answer some questions we had about these very topics. Enjoy!
“Scandinavian design isn’t just about how things look; it’s a way of thinking about how we live with the things around us. It's about durability, sustainability, and comfort.”
— Anna Christian
How long have you lived in Minnesota?
Anna: I spent half of my childhood in Minnesota and have lived here for almost 20 years as an adult. I grew up in North Dakota with my mom and spent half the time with my dad in Northern Minnesota, 5 miles from Canada. Both places remain very special to me. My husband, our family, and I lived in Texas for just two years. It was lovely, but ultimately, we returned to the North.
Why have you chosen Minnesota as your home?
Anna: Minnesota is home to my husband's family. While I might prefer living a bit further north, we’ve had great opportunities here near the Twin Cities. Minnesota has its ups and downs, but overall, I love the fresh air, the lakes, the way we raise “outdoor kids,” and the four full, equally stunning seasons.
The one thing I missed the most in Texas was "the fresh Northern air." There is a stillness about it. The air is crisp. The snow blankets everything in a hush and sparkle. I love that sense of quiet peace. It’s a reminder that simplicity can bring a certain kind of beauty that’s hard to find in the hustle of everyday life.
How has your Scandinavian upbringing influenced your decision to live simply?
Anna: I didn’t fully realize how strong my Scandinavian heritage (Swedish and Norwegian) was until I left Minnesota and moved to Texas. We quickly noticed that there were far fewer blondes, and no one knew what “lefse” was. Hotdish? You mean casserole? Our kids were the wild ones who didn’t wear shoes and would happily play outside or swim, no matter the weather.
We naturally lived simply in our large Texas house, surrounded by Dallas friends who lived very differently. Those two years in Texas were full of "aha!" moments when I realized I was, at my core, a Scandinavian country girl in a very large Southern city.
The first time I visited Sweden, I had this moment on top of a hill at my family's farm. The sun was shining, the grass was filled with white flowers and I had the deepest sense of peace I have ever had. As I was explaining it this year to my followers, one of them sent me this article about how this is a common phenomenon that happens when people go to visit their family's native place of "origin."
Places we have lived are literally in our DNA, which we then pass on to the next generation. My Great Grandfather's farm in Varobacka in him, in my Grandma, my Mom and then me. It's so wild and true, and so Scandinavian design is not just an influence of mine, but it is literally IN my bones, embodied.
What aspects of Scandinavian design speak to you?
Anna: Literally everything. Looking back at my past designs and homes (five in ten years), I was struck by how strongly Scandinavian my taste is. Specifically, I adore pure white walls and the most natural light possible—they bring me the greatest joy. Would I live in a glass house, YES! I prefer quality over quantity and natural materials over synthetic ones. This aligns with my natural vibe, and I believe that most natural things are far less “toxic” than their synthetic counterparts
How has Scandinavian design influenced your interior design?
Anna: I’ve always loved simplicity, but Scandinavian design helped me fully embrace “minimalism” without feeling like I needed to completely deck out my home like the majority of homes. It gave me the permission to choose fewer, better-quality items that truly make me happy.
Scandinavian design isn’t just about how things look; it’s a way of thinking about how we live with the things around us. It's about durability, sustainability, and comfort. I love how functional pieces can still be beautiful or vise versa—and how even a simple chair (or handbag) can become a statement of personal style while supporting a larger cultural movement toward conscious living.
How do you balance being fashionable while remaining minimal?
Anna: This is such a great question, because there’s a fine line here, and honestly, I’m still working on it. I’ve paid close attention to the colors, textures, and fabrics I’ve consistently worn over the years, as well as the ones I’ve bought and then donated or passed on to friends. When you really narrow down your likes and dislikes and become picky, that’s when the magic happens. Sure, I could walk into any store and find “cute” things, but I now ask myself: What will this look like after a few washes? Is this a good brand? Does this fit my style, skin tone, and personal “brand”? Even if you’re not an influencer, I believe everyone has a personal brand, whether they realize it or not. Clothing is a way of self-expression, and it can be an art form. I appreciate fashion with intention.
What are your thoughts on slow fashion vs. fast fashion?
“Slow fashion, on the other hand, is about investing in quality: good denim, a staple wool coat, hand-knitted mittens—items that will last for years.”
—Anna Christian
Anna: When I think of slow fashion, I think of Europe; when I think of fast fashion, I think of the US (via China). I’ve experienced fast fashion when I’ve bought “cheaper” items from Amazon, only for it to fall apart after one wash. Slow fashion, on the other hand, is about investing in quality: good denim, a staple wool coat, hand-knitted mittens—items that will last for years. I personally don’t do Amazon hauls because, in real life, I would never choose that. I love secondhand shopping, and I’ve found some of my best pieces this way. Recently, I found a Nordic-branded long sherpa coat for $25—online, it was priced at $400! I also love finding name-brand denim that’s already pre-washed and fits perfectly. If you are wondering where: I love Style Encore and Salvation Army.
When shopping for a new purse, what qualities do you prioritize?
Anna: Uniqueness. Living in Dallas, it always struck me as strange that every woman wanted a Louis Vuitton. Why? Sure, the quality is great, but why would you want a handbag that literally every other woman is carrying? When I look in my closet, I see two main brands: Hanson Leather and Anthropologie. This mix feels artsy to me, with a blend of handmade and quality. I often use both together. I love knowing who I’m supporting, and I feel like I’m buying a piece of art.
If you could only incorporate one Scandinavian tradition into your life, what would it be?
Anna: Impossible! But if I had to pick just one, it would be friluftsliv (open-air living) getting outside every day. I love homes and design, but being in nature—no matter what your house looks like—always takes the top spot.
In the Swedish book stores, there are entire sections on Friluftsliv.
What is your favorite snack to have with your coffee during Fika?
Anna: Kardemummabullar (cardamom buns) or a chocolate croissant. However, I’m very picky about both, so if I’m going to break my gluten-free lifestyle, they have to be amazing!
On a regular day, being gluten-free, I typically grab a Tates gluten-free cookie, or maybe a piece of cheese and fruit.
Do you have any role models or sources of inspiration for simple living?
Anna: Oh, yes! I’ve made a list because I’m so inspired by certain designers.
Leanne Ford is my ultimate design role model. We’re similar in age, and the way she designs and views life is so inspiring—you're never too old! She’s not Scandinavian, but she’s minimal, loves white, and is incredibly creative. Sound familiar?
Sara Sherman Samuel is also a favorite. She moved from California back to her roots in Michigan and built the dreamiest design studio and home in the woods. Her style is more organic, modern and colorful, which isn’t exactly my style, but she inspires me to consider adding elements I might not have thought of—and end up loving.
The Swedish concept of Lagom: I’ve always felt drawn to the concept of 'lagom,' the Swedish philosophy of balance. In both design and life, it’s about finding that sweet spot—not too much, not too little. It’s a principle I try to apply in everything from my wardrobe to the way I decorate our home. My cousin's say "Lagom ar best!"
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