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Rediscovering the heart of Christmas with architect Nikol Cojocaru

CHRISTMAS STORIES

Rediscovering the heart of Christmas with architect Nikol Cojocaru


Architect, mother of two and co-creator of 'Naš Mlýn', a beautifully restored 17th-century mill outside Prague.

This December, we spoke with Nikol Cojocaru, who lives with her husband and two little boys in 'Naš Mlýn', the historic mill they are restoring, about the gentle rituals and traditions that shape their family’s Christmas and her advice for creating a warm, child-friendly holiday at home.

What are you most looking forward to this Christmas?

"What brings me the most joy is simply being together with our family and loved ones, and knowing we’re all healthy. We’re very busy throughout the year, so Christmas slows us down a little and brings a sense of calm, that’s what I love most."

How has your idea of Christmas changed since becoming a parent?

"I’ve let go of the idea of having a perfectly tidy home and instead focus on the peaceful moments with our children. We read Christmas books, sing carols and bake gingerbread cookies. Christmas with children has a different kind of magic. It feels genuine and real. Their bright eyes as they wait for Baby Jesus are the most beautiful part."

“I believe they will remember the whole atmosphere of our home. The smell of gingerbread and our favorite cinnamon candle burning while Christmas stories play in the background.”


Are there any traditions you’ve carried on from your own childhood?

"I’ve let go of the idea of having a perfectly tidy home and instead focus on the peaceful moments with our children. We read Christmas books, sing carols and bake gingerbread cookies. Christmas with children has a different kind of magic. It feels genuine and real. Their bright eyes as they wait for Baby Jesus are the most beautiful part."

How do you involve your children in the idea of gratitude and giving?

"Our older son once wrote a letter to Baby Jesus asking for one present for himself, and also gifts for his parents, his brother and all the children he knows. Children mirror what they see. Since they were little, we’ve taught them to share and to appreciate that a toy, or even an ice cream, is something to be earned. I truly believe they’re growing into kind-hearted people."

“Children remember how we felt, not whether the stars on the windows were perfectly straight.”


What do you hope your children will remember most about Christmas growing up?

"I believe they will remember the whole atmosphere of our home - the smell of gingerbread, our favorite cinnamon candle burning while Christmas stories play in the background. Our walks before Christmas Eve, walnut-shell boats floating on water, cutting apples… But above all, that we were together and truly enjoyed each other."

What are your top three tips for creating a calm, child-friendly Christmas?

"1. Slow down and let go of big expectations. Don’t worry about a perfectly clean home or flawless decorations. Children remember how we felt, not whether every star in the window was straight. Allow yourself to be present rather than perfect.

2. Involve the children in simple, playful preparations. Make one small activity a day, but keep it calm. Bake a few gingerbread cookies, decorate a tree outside for the birds, play carols while getting dressed. These little rituals create comfort and magic.

3. Create little “islands of coziness” at home. Light a candle, put on a Christmas story, set out some tangerines and gingerbread and just be together. Children don’t need much, only our attention and a warm, gentle atmosphere."

A LITTLE EXTRA CHRISTMAS INSPIRATION

Nikol and her family run Naš Mlýn, a boutique retreat surrounded by forest and river. A place shaped with patience, craftsmanship and soul.
In December, the mill fills with the scent of pine and gingerbread, and guests can join seasonal workshops such as their Advent wreath making sessions.
No matter the season, Naš Mlýn invites you to step into a space where thoughtful design meets the quiet beauty of the Czech countryside.

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