The paths we travel INSPIRED BY THE BEAUT Y OF ICEL AND
Rangárþing eystra, Southern Region, Iceland
JOIN US ON A DESIGN JOURNEY, INSPIRED BY THE BEAUTY OF ICELAND As you may know, Iceland is a land of breathtaking landscapes, where the raw power of nature meets serene tranquility. It was during my visit there that I was profoundly moved by the way Iceland seamlessly weaves its awe-inspiring scenery into every aspect of life. Drawing from the dramatic landscapes of Iceland, we have created our first ever SAM Lookbook, one that seeks to capture the essence of this remarkable place. I am thrilled to share pieces of this journey with you in the pages of this book. The SAM goal is not just to create aesthetically pleasing spaces but to evoke the same sense of wonder, tranquility, and vitality that Iceland’s landscapes have instilled in me. I look forward to sharing this project with you and hope that it brings as much joy and inspiration to your life as it has to mine. Warmest regards,
Susan Susan Drover Owner/CEO SAM Design
CONTENTS NOIR 6
Nordic Winter
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Nordic Noir
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Black Beauty
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Curated Cool
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Our Favourite Black Paints
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SAM Spotlight: Nordic Natural
CALM 20
Cozy Comfort
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Calm Your Mind
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Organic Modern
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SAM Spotlight: Heritage Modern
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Our Favourite White Paints
THE BLUE ZONE 32
Keep Calm
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Soft Nordic
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The Blue Zone
GREEN LIVING 38
Green Living
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Pattern Play: Nature Inspired
SHOP 45
Shop Susan’s Artwork
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Shop the Lookbook
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Contact
“ TRAVEL & LOVE ARE WORTH THE sACRIFICE FOR A LIFE WITHOUT THEM Is A LIFE UNEXPLORED ” AT T I C U S
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NORDIC WINTER 1. The Paths We Travel Print by Susan Drover 2. Gus Modern Truss Chair Leather Licorice & Black Ash 3. Gotland Sheepskin 4. Gus Modern Nord Sofa in Casella Slate 5. EQ3 Meret Vase in Grey 6. Ora Three Branch Candle Holder 7. Pier LED Lamp in Black 8. Gus Modern Porter Rectangular Coffee Table in Black Ash 9. Nordic Winter Cookbook
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NORDIC NOIR 1. Morris & Co. Rosehip Wallpaper in Black 2. Renwil Garatun Pendant 3. Nordic Interior Book 4. EQ3 Cello Storage Bed in Seoul Flannel 5. Icelandic Sheepskin 6. EQ3 Dew Stone Bowl 7. Ethnicraft Stilthouse Object 8. Ethnicraft Bok Chair in Black Oak 9. Ethnicraft Graphic Sideboard
AS IS THE CASE FOR SCANDINAVIAN AND NORDIC DESIGN, THE CORE ELEMENTS OF ICELANDIC DESIGN ARE MINIMALISM AND CLEAN COMPOSITIONS INSPIRED BY LOCAL CULTURE AND THE COUNTRY’S UNIQUE NATURAL LANDSCAPES.
Reynisfjara Black Beach, Iceland 10
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BLACK BEAUTY 1. Gus Modern Tallinn Chair and Ottoman in Copenhagen Iron 2. Umbra Hub Mirror 3. Calm Shores Print by Susan Drover 4. EQ3 Nori Pots 5. Loloi Brooks Collection Rug in Ink 6. EQ3 River End Table in Black Oak with Black Base
Sólheimajökull, Vík, Southern Region, Iceland
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CURATED COOL 1. Trica Archive Shelving 2. MENU Book 3. EQ3 Desert Napkins 4. EQ3 Mai Tea Set 5. Amber Lewis × Loloi Gwyneth Collection Rug in Denim/Sky 6. Trica Lola Chair in Anthracite & Ballad 30 7. Trica Empire Table in Taupe, Vintage Oak & Mushroom Glass
Woodland Wallpaper by Cole & Son
OUR FAVOURITE
Black Paints
BENJAMIN MOORE ONYX 2133-10
BENJAMIN MOORE BLACK BEAUTY 2128-10
BENJAMIN MOORE BLACK KNIGHT 2136-10
BENJAMIN MOORE BLACK SATIN 2131-10
BENJAMIN MOORE BLACK PANTHER 2125-10
BENJAMIN MOORE WROUGHT IRON 2124-10
BENJAMIN MOORE SOOT 2129-20
BENJAMIN MOORE EBONY KING 2132-20
BENJAMIN MOORE JET BLACK 2120-10
Left: The traditional staircase in Susan’s home is painted Benjamin Moore Black Knight to bring a modern touch to the space.
The black painted house is built as a modern update of the traditional timber houses, commonly found in Iceland in the 18th and 19th century. Originally the black color came from the tar that was used to protect the timber from the region's harsh elements.
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“Around the bay, in the city, in the woods — wherever you choose to stay, each of our properties has a unique location to satisfy your taste.”
a hot tub overlooking the river, a fully equipped outdoor kitchen complete with a pizza oven, and plenty of room to relax, lounge, and unwind. Whether you seek quiet introspection, outdoor adventures, or are simply seeking a place to unwind and rejuvenate, this Scandinavian inspired river retreat offers a harmonious blend of modern luxury and natural beauty, inviting you to embrace the serenity of this captivating riverside escape.
North River is part of the DWELL by sam group of properties, a curated collection of home experiences, designed, built, and loved by Susan Drover and the SAM team. Susan’s passion long lives in creating memorable spaces and experiences, intuitively understanding how beautifully and thoughtfully designed spaces enhance living. The collection offers something for everyone — “Around the bay, in the city, in the woods — wherever you choose to stay, each of our properties has a unique location to satisfy your taste,” Susan says. Inside, the interior spaces are a testament to Susan’s personal style and the principles of hygge, where comfort and coziness reign supreme. Every room was designed with intention and with family gatherings in mind. Large windows frame breathtaking river views and draw the feel of the outdoors in. The home is styled with Nordic sensibility, featuring white oak engineered floors, a giant wood burning fireplace, and modern furniture and lighting from SAM Design. The outdoor space is an entertainer’s paradise. Step out onto the expansive deck where you’ll find a swimming pool and
SAM LOOKBOOK
Guests at North River are encouraged to leave a note — words of advice, or something simple and sweet above the dining table.
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estled along the tranquil banks of a meandering river, this Scandinavian-inspired retreat is a serene haven where modern design meets the unspoiled beauty of nature. The architecture of this cozy escape draws inspiration from the clean lines and functional elegance that define Scandinavian style.
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THIS SCANDINAVIAN STYLE RIVERFRONT RETREAT FUSES NORDIC SENSIBILITIES WITH MODERN COMFORTS
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NORDIC NATURAL
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Pictured: Ethnicraft Graphic Sideboard Gus Modern MIX Sectional The walls are painted Simply White by Benjamin Moore
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LET THE LIGHT IN Large windows let you enjoy the sun from dawn until dusk.
Pictured: Conform Timeout Chair in Sheepskin Ethnicraft Graphic Sideboard Original Art by Robert Moore
SAM LOOKBOOK
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A COZY SPACE TO RELAX Designed for entertaining and hosting family gatherings, the space offers several different seating areas. This sitting room is great for cozy nights in, with a Nordic-style wood-burning fireplace and ample seating thanks to the Gus Modern MIX modular sofa.
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A SERENE HAVEN The outdoor kitchen is a chef’s dream and is perfect for entertaining from day to night. Bert, Susan’s partner, is the culinary expert for family gatherings and relaxing nights in.
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NESTLED IN A NATURAL SETTING If you’re a fan of the outdoors, look no further. North River is the perfect place to enjoy a kayak ride on a beautiful salmon river. If you’re a fan of wildlife, keep an eye out for our resident bald eagle and the neighbourhood beavers.
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In Iceland, where the climate can be quite harsh, creating cozy and inviting indoor spaces is a valued tradition. Here, a concept called “kos” or “kose” exists, which shares some similarities with the Danish notion of hygge. Kos embodies a sense of comfort, relaxation, togetherness, and finding joy in simple pleasures.
Black Sheep (White Light) Grey Icelandic Sheepskin Throw Rug
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COZY COMFORT 1. Amber Lewis x Loloi Mendocino Wall Art 2. Pier LED Lamp in Sand 3. EQ3 Trundle Basket 4. Grey Icelandic Sheepskin Throw Rug 5. Four Hands Muestra Dining Chair in Natural Teak 6. Justina Blakeney × Loloi The Yeshaia Collection in Black/Neutral
The Icelandic horse is a unique breed that has been isolated on the island for over 1,000 years.
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CALM YOUR MIND 1. Libeco Salem Duvet Cover 2. Cotton Grass Print by Susan Drover in an EQ3 Basel Frame 3. Indaba Check Weave Pillow 4. Indaba Floria Pillow 5. Gus Modern Kelso Chair 6. Gus Modern Munro Bed in Walnut 7. Gus Modern Munro Dresser in Walnut 8. Indaba Vera Velvet Pillow in Bisque
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ORGANIC MODERN 1. Gus Modern Miller Sofa in Caledon Amber 2. Four Hands Kadon Chair in Sheepskin Camel 3. Four Hands Stark Sideboard in Warm Espresso 4. EQ3 Alfred Vessels 5. Gus Modern Odeon Coffee Table in Walnut 6. Jean Stoffer x Loloi Bradbury Midnight/Multi Rug
Susan Drover stands in the entry of her lovingly restored townhome.
SAM DESIGN SPOTLIGHT
H E R I TA G E
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nspired by her passion for all things Nordic, this historic townhome was a labour of love for SAM owner, Susan Drover. Tastefully renovated and restored with the comfort of her family in mind, the starting point for the space was the chevron floors, a detail that Susan had been dreaming of adding to the right home for many years. After downsizing from a much larger dwelling, this was the perfect space to realize her dream. Susan’s design philosophy leans towards a home being personal — a reflection of who you are — and not turning towards design trends.
SAM LOOKBOOK
The neutral color palette is dominated by whites, grays, and soft pastels, creating an atmosphere of calm and serenity throughout. Touches of black were added to ground the space, and to add some punch and drama. Susan’s home is thoughtfully curated with everything she loves, including items from her travels, unique gifts from friends, and family mementos. She also chose to incorporate nature-inspired elements into the home, like the forest inspired wallpaper in her entry and stairwell, cozy blankets, and greenery to infuse the home with her love of the outdoors.
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Susan’s updated kitchen features an eclectic mix of accessories from SAM and pieces that she has collected through the years.
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Art by Mike Gough / Huppé Dining Table & Chairs
SAM LOOKBOOK
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Art by Ryan Livingstone / Accessories from Conifer Homewares & Ferm Living / Cabinet by Nuevo
OUR FAVOURITE
White Paints
BENJAMIN MOORE SIMPLY WHITE OC-117
BENJAMIN MOORE CHANTILLY LACE OC-65
BENJAMIN MOORE PAPER WHITE OC-55
BENJAMIN MOORE SNOWFALL WHITE OC-118
BENJAMIN MOORE WHITE DOVE OC-17
BENJAMIN MOORE OXFORD WHITE CC-30
BENJAMIN MOORE DECORATOR’S WHITE CC-20
BENJAMIN MOORE WHITE HERON OC-57
BENJAMIN MOORE CLOUD WHITE CC-40
Pictured Left: Susan’s Dining Room is painted Snowfall White by Benjamin Moore, a colour she calls a personal favourite.
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KEEP CALM 1. Amber Lewis x Loloi Cassia Wall Art 2. Morris & Co. Scroll Wallpaper 3. Blomus Sablo Coffee Cups 4. Amber Lewis x Loloi Mateo Blue Pillow 5. Magnolia Home x Loloi MH Denim/Tan Pillow 6. Ethnicraft Oat Alpone Throw 7. Gus Modern Renfrew Sofa in Mersey Skyline
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SOFT NORDIC 1. EQ3 Reverie Leather Sofa in Petra Mica with Black Ash Legs 2. Blomus LITO Lanterns in Nomad 3. Gus Modern Halifax Chair in Hanson Navy & Atlantic 4. Huppé Edward Square Center Table in Light Natural Walnut 5. Soft Nordic Book 6. EQ3 Tartan Rug in Blue & Red
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THE BLUE ZONE 1. Gus Modern Mulholland Chair in Caledon Sedona 2. The Blue Zone Print by Susan Drover 3. EQ3 Marcel Bed in Oak 4. Cultiver Cedar Stripe Bedding 5. EQ3 Fika Floral Tray 6. EQ3 Pebble Vases
Did you know — Icelandic moss can take 100 years to grow. It takes time to reach perfection.
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GREEN LIVING 1. Þingvellir National Park – Where You Walk Between Two Continents Print by Susan Drover 2. Nordic Homestead Book 3. Four Hands Grant 3-piece Sectional in Heron Sand 4. WOUD Arc Coffee Table in Walnut 5. EQ3 Chiara Lounge Chair in Aspen Sage with Walnut 6. Chris Loves Julia x Loloi Francis Collection Rug in Beige/Charcoal
Pictured: Snakeshead Wallpaper by Morris & Co. in Susan’s Powder Room
PAT T E R N P L AY
NATURE INsPIRED Bringing the outdoors in with wallpaper patterns inspired by the natural world
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ordic wallpaper patterns typically draw from the region’s design principles of simplicity, functionality, and strong connection to nature. This reflects the Nordic people’s deep appreciation for the natural world and their desire to bring a piece of it into their homes. Nordic-inspired wallpaper can adapt to a variety of interior styles, whether it’s a contemporary, traditional, or eclectic space. Its versatility makes it a popular choice for homeowners and interior designers alike. This sensibility complements other elements of Scandinavian design, such as natural wood furniture, functional decor, and an overall emphasis on creating inviting and harmonious living spaces that celebrate the beauty of simplicity, a value at the center of the SAM team’s design philosophy.
SAM LOOKBOOK
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PAT T E R N P L AY: N AT U R E I N S P I R E D WA L L PA P E R S
Juniper Winter
Hummingbirds Icons
52085 98W8611
KATE GOLDING
COLE & SON
JF FABRICS
Venation Orient
Woods
Woodland
NEWWALL
COLE & SON
COLE & SON
Honeysuckle Petrol
Willow Boughts Wallpaper in Linen
Arbutus Wallpaper in Green & Red
HOUSE OF HACKNEY
MORRIS & CO.
MORRIS & CO.
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Arbutus Wallpaper featured at Dvele Inn, the newest addition to DWELL by sam, a curated collection of home experiences, designed, built, and loved by Susan Drover and the SAM Design team.
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The design of Dvele was heavily inspired by Susan’s own travels, offering beautifully and thoughtfully designed spaces from a seasoned traveller’s own point of view. Each and every amenity has been perfectly planned to offer guests an exceptional stay.
SHARING THE BEAUTY OF ICELAND Bring a piece of Iceland’s beauty home through awe-inspiring landscapes and breathtaking scenes. A selection of Susan’s captivating photographs are now available for purchase both in our showroom and online at samdesign.ca.
SAM LOOKBOOK
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SHOP THE LOOKBOOK
Susan’s own bed features a collection of cozy textiles from SAM
We believe in offering our customers the utmost flexibility and personalization when it comes to their interior design needs. This means you have the freedom to choose the specific colors, sizes, and styles that perfectly match your vision for your living spaces. Whether you’re looking for a unique furniture piece, custom-made textiles, lighting to set the mood, or flooring and tile to complete your renovation, our special order service ensures that you can create a home that truly reflects your individual taste and preferences. Plus, if you need a little help, our talented team is available to book for a design consultation tailored to your specific needs — we’re here to assist you every step of the way in crafting the perfect living environment for you. Please contact us for further details on ordering your favourite pieces.
CONTACT US SAM Design 2 Freshwater Road St. John’s, NL T 709.739.8382 info@samdesign.ca samdesign.ca Interior Design Inquiries Jenneil Cooper Lead Design Consultant jenneil@samdesign.ca Brand Inquiries Erin Austin Brand Manager erin@samdesign.ca DWELL by sam info@dwellbysam.ca dwellbysam.ca Landscape Photography Interiors Photography for “Nordic Naturals” Susan Drover Interior Photography Jane Brokenshire janebrokenshire.com
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Sólheimajökull, Vík, Southern Region, Iceland
VOLUME 1 S A M L O O K B O O K | T h e P a t h s W e Tr a v e l
SAM Design 2 Freshwater Road St. John’s, NL T 709.739.8382 info@samdesign.ca
SAMDESIGN.CA