We met Sofie Zilstorff and baby Betty at their farmhouse on a sunny September day. Sofie, 32, is a mother of three and currently on maternity leave with her youngest. Last year, she and her husband moved from their apartment in Vesterbro, Copenhagen, to a small farmhouse near Roskilde. Shortly after the move, Sofie found out she was pregnant. Now, they’re embracing a slower pace of life, caught between the light and scent of nature and the dust of ongoing renovations.
What inspired your move from the city to the countryside?
Both me and my husband grew up in houses near forest and with lots of outdoor space. I think we always knew that we wanted something similar one day. Although I loved living in the city as well. But when the boys were around 2 and 4 years old we longed for more space and felt the urge to get away from all the noises and be closer to nature.
How has the change of environment shaped your family’s daily life?
I do miss strolling or biking around in the city, picking up hot coffee and pastries on the way. But moving out has given our family so much more breathing space, both physically and mentally. There is a fantastic community out here where we live. People are always ready to lend a helping hand.
How has babywearing become part of your daily rhythm?
When I pick up the boys from kindergarden and school it’s indispensable. I pick them up by car at the moment so it’s really practical for me to carry Betty around in a carrier - and it is also the best feeling having her little body close to mine.
What values feel more important to you now than before?
The community in the local area. Because we depend on each other in a different way here.
What’s a recent moment with your children that made you pause and smile?
This summer was our first summer in the house, the two oldest have had countless moments in our garden filled with loud laughter and running around. How they both have looked at their baby sister since she came in the end of May makes me smile every day.
What inspired you to start Bera Project? (Sofie's brand with adjustable and timeless designs for children and adults. Made from left over fabrics)
Becoming a mother
How does being a mother influence the way you design or choose materials?
It’s important to me that designs and materials complement each other in one way or another. Sometimes the material has to speak for itself, and other times it is the opposite. But I always go for natural materials that age beautifully. My mother has been good at keeping my old clothes. That has been a great inspiration, both when it comes to designing and especially the storytelling. I like it when you can see that the clothes have been worn.
Do you have any rituals or routines that make family life feel more grounded?
Repetitions and lots of kisses
What advice would you give to other families considering a move from the city to the countryside?
Everything takes time and nothing needs to be definitive. There is nothing wrong with missing the old. But be open to all the new.
Who lifts you up?
My family and my friends. But my husband lifts me up every single day.
Thank you, Sofie!
