Introducing Billnäs Gård, Finland: a new purpose-built integrated space that celebrates a ‘slow and local’ lifestyle

Finland’s Billnäs Gård is a new design-led hospitality concept located one hour by train and car from Helsinki that operates as a wellbeing-focused boutique hotel and as a private and retreat space intermittently throughout the year. I am. Located on the banks of the Svarta River in the heart of the ancient Vilnas Iron Works, surrounded by unspoiled nature, this spectacular Mediterranean-style hotel welcomes the pursuit of health, creativity and adventure while being enveloped in bespoke modern luxury. We offer a seamless blend of

Behind this new hospitality concept are the entrepreneurial couple Taina Snellman Langenskjold and Chris Langenskjold. A design-thinking entrepreneur, Taina designs interiors and gardens that thoughtfully combine Finnish sustainable design principles with diverse influences from around the world. Billnäs Gård has been a meaningful and dream project for Taina since the renovation of the site began in 2021. Applying a sustainable approach, using natural materials and making long-lasting aesthetic choices, has been a priority throughout to preserve this cultural landmark for future generations.

Chris has designed a program of holistic experiences to help guests slow down, reconnect with themselves and enhance their well-being. The goal is for guests to come away from this holistic space feeling better prepared to face the challenges of everyday life.

Whether booked as a private rental for a family or corporate event, or packed with solo travelers, couples or friends enjoying a celebratory getaway, our design allows guests to explore the surrounding lush pine forest and recalibrate their mood. A program of optional rejuvenating activities is available. ourselves and nature.

property

Dating back to 1912, the property has 6 bookable en-suite rooms, accommodating up to 12 guests in total. During the summer months, spend the night in a cozy cabin along the river for a more private and rustic experience. The lush gardens include a heated saltwater pool, offering a beautiful setting for complete relaxation and rejuvenation on the riverbank. The underground spa and meditation space features soft concrete benches, a sauna and herbal bathtub, all vibrating in a soothing binaural soundscape, set in a candlelit historic building. .

Staff will be able to provide assistance when multiple common spaces within the facility are used for private parties (up to 70 people indoors and 100 people outdoors) or for large meetings, events, and celebrations. However, we will be stationed on-site. Billnäs Gård is also available for private rental, with or without a carefully selected comprehensive wellness program, on request.

design

At Billnäs Gård, guests can expect a harmonious blend of sustainable Finnish design principles delivered in natural color schemes and materials. We combine vintage and second-hand items with modern and classic furniture. William Morris wallpaper is lined with Alvar Aalto’s designs and icons, while locally woven rugs and fabrics add a soft touch. Contemporary Finnish designer Pasi Kerkainen Tunkero offers unique brass glass lighting that casts a soft glow throughout the living spaces. Bedroom mattresses are handmade in Finland using natural materials such as local wool.

Taina and Chris have lovingly restored Billnäs Gård, aiming to preserve as much of the original detail as possible. The Natura room bathroom was designed around the existing fireplace. The Blue Room was designed with children in mind, featuring a small playroom, favorite toys, and a brightly colored kitchenette. With river views, private balconies, and bathtubs overlooking the gardens, the Nest His room embodies the property’s commitment to aesthetics and sensory pleasure. Taina strongly believes that by creating beauty through our living spaces, we can feel happier and achieve our best results.

Eating and drinking

Billnäs Gård serves healthy, home-style Finnish-French cuisine made with local, seasonal ingredients for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Chris and Taina’s “Simple is Beautiful” philosophy focuses on using clean, pure ingredients and flavors that celebrate the essence of the region. Morning organic porridge is served with locally grown berries, while hearty soups and salads feature locally grown mushrooms and freshly foraged vegetables. Bread is baked in-house, quality meat is locally sourced, and fish is caught daily by local fishermen.

Cooking courses are available to savor the slow life in the property’s sun-drenched dining space and savor the joy of every bite. Healthy flavors are also available seasonally, including wild herbs, teas made from foraged leaves, and chaga morning shots.

Mindfulness and slow living

Billnäs Gård goes beyond traditional hospitality concepts by incorporating design into both its accommodation and selected guest services, such as its Life Academy program (Libsakademi). This unique holistic approach, led by Chris, is carried out in collaboration with a wide network of experienced wellbeing professionals from a variety of sectors.

Through events, retreats, rituals, and life design tools, Life Academy promotes mindfulness, harmony, and sustainability through immersive experiences such as yoga, horseback riding, art, and design. His private workshop space will host classes on art, design, and health throughout 2024.

Fulfilling activities and cultural exploration

Throughout the year, Billnäs Gård focuses on immersive, nature-focused experiences, from forest walks and golf to just 5 minutes of backcountry skiing. Take your time to explore the village or enjoy a stand-up his paddleboard along the river. Explore nearby hiking trails or participate in outdoor activities such as picnicking and fishing.

The property is also home to two much-loved donkeys, Lugun and Ro (calm and peaceful), who add to the charm of its surroundings. Additionally, across the road are the old fire station, which is currently being restored for 2024, and the stables where guests can take part in art classes. , craft workshops and gardening sessions.

The rich heritage of Vilnas village and the Finnish countryside

Both the village of Billnäs and the neighboring village of Fiskars offer a wealth of opportunities to explore the region’s cultural heritage, art and design events. During your stay, you can explore by bicycle (regular and electric) or by car and find charming craft shops and restaurants serving Finnish cuisine. Winter at Billnäs Gård means guests can soak up magical snowy landscapes while sipping hot tea by a crackling fireplace, or relax in a meditation spa after a day of sledding, ice skating, or skiing. We offer a unique and enchanting experience where you can enjoy a warm session.

Note to guests

Billnäs Gård is where design meets everyday happiness through a unique service concept that supports life design thinking.

When booking a stay, guests can fill out a survey to help the team understand their personal development needs in the pursuit of overall balance and wellness. Based on their answers, guests can choose up to three recommendations for nutrition, exercise, treatments, and workshops. Individual programs are also available.

Upon arrival, enjoy a carefully designed little pampering moment before being escorted to your room stocked with carefully selected locally sourced ingredients.

The family experience has been carefully considered and babysitting services are available. Some events are designed for adults only. There is one room that allows dogs.

As a boutique hotel, prices start from £340 per night, depending on the season. Private rental rates are available upon request. If you book your stay more than 8 weeks in advance, a 50% deposit is required.