A New Chapter: Inside Simone Polk’s Transformative Copenhagen Apartment
In the heart of Copenhagen, artist Simone Polk found solace and inspiration in a light-filled apartment after a significant life change. Following her divorce, Polk sought a nurturing environment for herself and her 12-year-old daughter, Ava. This space not only became a home but also a canvas for her artistic journey, reflecting her emotional transition and newfound independence.
A Soft Landing
Polk’s journey to this apartment was marked by a desire for a “soft landing” after 14 years of marriage. The initial loneliness she felt was palpable, but a chance encounter with an old friend at a party opened new doors. This friend introduced her to a supportive community of divorced women, all navigating similar challenges. “The first thing they told me was, ‘Sort out custody so you have the ‘even’ weeks to yourself and the ‘odd’ weeks with your daughter,'” Polk recounted. This shared experience fostered a sense of camaraderie, allowing her to build a new social network while balancing motherhood.
The Living Room: A Calm Oasis
The living room of Polk’s apartment is a testament to her artistic sensibilities. Painted in a soothing shade called “Pointing” by Farrow & Ball, the walls serve as a backdrop for her own paintings, which adorn the space. The room is furnished with a mix of vintage finds and modern pieces, including an old Ikea sofa dressed in a sage linen cover. “My house is very calm, but I’m like Monica from Friends – I hide all the clutter in the closets!” she joked, revealing the relatable chaos behind her serene aesthetic.
Polk’s design choices reflect a love for warm, buttery tones reminiscent of the golden light captured in photographs from the 1980s. “Some people have described my home as ‘beige,’ which can be a shorthand for bland. But I love these warm tones,” she explained, emphasizing the emotional connection she has with her color palette.
A Space for Growth
The apartment has been more than just a living space; it has been a backdrop for personal growth and creativity. Polk shared that her first Christmas in the apartment was a memorable one, marked by the challenge of bringing home the largest tree they could find to fit the high ceilings. “We could barely carry it home,” she recalled, highlighting the joy and challenges of creating new traditions.
Dining Room: A Creative Hub
The dining room is another reflection of Polk’s artistic journey. Vintage furniture, including a table and hutch, complements her own artwork, creating a space that feels both lived-in and curated. “Growing up, I drew all the time. My dad, an artist, was quite proud of me and said I would be an artist, too,” she reminisced. After a long career in television, Polk returned to her artistic roots, initially as an interior stylist before transitioning to painting full-time.
Her decision to sell her artwork directly, rather than through galleries, has allowed her to connect more intimately with her clients. “It’s been a game changer to allow clients and collectors to see a painting this way as opposed to in a white-walled gallery space,” she noted, emphasizing the importance of context in art appreciation.
The Kitchen: A Culinary Retreat
Polk’s kitchen is a blend of functionality and charm, featuring vintage finds that add character to the space. A watercolor by Danish artist Jens Uffe Rasmussen hangs on the wall, a nod to her appreciation for local art. “My favorite Copenhagen art museum is Ordrupgaard, which includes the house of legendary furniture designer Finn Juhl,” she shared, illustrating her deep connection to the artistic community in her city.
Bedroom: A Personal Sanctuary
The bedroom serves as a personal sanctuary for Polk and Ava. The bed, adorned with soft linens from Zara Home, is complemented by more of Polk’s artwork. A memorable incident involving Ava jumping on the bed and accidentally damaging a canvas led to the creation of Polk’s popular “Patches” series. “That jumping-on-the-bed accident became the start of Patches, my most popular series,” she explained, showcasing how personal experiences can fuel creativity.
A Sense of Community
Polk’s journey in Copenhagen has been enriched by the friendships she has formed. The community of divorced women she met has become a vital support system, allowing her to navigate the complexities of single motherhood while fostering her artistic career. “Now, when we don’t have our kids, we spend time together,” she said, highlighting the importance of shared experiences in building resilience.
Conclusion: A New Beginning
While Polk and Ava have since moved from this apartment, the memories and experiences they created there remain etched in their hearts. The space served as a transformative backdrop for Polk’s artistic journey and personal growth, illustrating the profound impact that our environments can have on our lives. As she reflects on her time in the apartment, Polk expresses gratitude for the opportunity to live in a space that nurtured her creativity and provided a sense of community during a pivotal moment in her life.
In a world where change is often daunting, Polk’s story serves as a reminder that new beginnings can lead to unexpected beauty and growth.
