5 Design Ideas to Steal from Iceland

Photography by Greta Rybus

When photojournalist Greta Rybus emailed us with plans to make a pilgrimage to two historic Icelandic turf house museums—Skógasafn, or Skógar Museum, and Glaumbær—we were eager to make a (virtual) visit. Here’s a look at a few singular design takeaways.

1. Look to the earth: The turf house may just be the original green architecture, self-insulating and made from renewable resources.

2. Paint colorful cabinets.

3. Keep a pretty towel within reach.

4. Bring back the bed curtain.

5. Paint in shades of blue, a common Icelandic palette.