Scandi decor style
12 Beautiful Scandinavian Interior Design Concepts
Minimalism may be trendy, but there is one iteration of clean design that will never go out of style—Scandinavian interior design. It's no small feat to be able to exercise restraint in your décor choices, while still managing to make a space feel cozy. The style is so popular because it speaks to both our tidy tendencies and our desire to live in inviting and comfortable settings. Want to get the look that Nordic countries are so well-known for? Take note of these beautiful layered spaces.
Fantastic FrankScandinavian interior design is known for its minimalist color palettes, cozy accents, and striking modern furniture. Designs often play with natural light which is a hot commodity in Nordic countries.
Liljencrantz Design High contrasts are the hallmark of Scandinavian interior design. In this all-white dining room, stark black sculptural furniture helps create a dramatic, impactful statement. Modern furniture also contrasts with the ornate architectural details that are common in historic buildings in northern Europe.
Even in newly built contemporary spaces, mod furniture is key. Tulip tables and swan chairs are warmed up by blonde-wood accents and rich cognac leather tones. Sculptural branches also help make the space feel more organic.
Tali Roth DesignsIn this New York City apartment, interior designer Tali Roth embraced her own version of Scandinavian style. A George Nelson-esque Flos table lamp stands atop a mirrored cube. The colors are muted tones of taupe, ivory, and sage. Black-and-white photography, olive branches, and a small brass bowl all serve as minimalist decorative accents.
Fantastic FrankColorful art is seldom found in Scandinavian interiors, but when it is, it's often in graphic multiples, like in this series of botanical prints. In the dining room, furniture is often kept simple: midcentury chairs and a floating storage buffet. Candles are the hallmark of hygge style and often come in simple brass candleholders.
Fantastic Frank Speaking of hygge, the Danes try to incorporate this philosophy in all aspects of their décor: Make it as cozy and comfortable as possible.
In this small space, the unmade bed is pushed up against the window and takes up the whole space. Curtains separate the sleeping space, further adding to the coziness.
This living room features simple, clean-lined furniture and muted gray tones, which could easily feel cold and uninviting. But with striking photography and a cozy mix of textures, like the sheepskin throw and kilim rug, it feels welcoming.
Liljencrantz DesignScandinavian homes are known to have fireplaces in the corner of a room—not centered on a wall. Thus, seating arrangements are often designed accordingly. Smaller accent chairs float closer to the fireplace while sofas generally anchor the middle of the room, leaving walking space behind it.
Fantastic FrankWarm wood tones and sepia hues are popular in Scandinavian interior design because they make a room feel sunny and bright without using overwhelming bright colors.
Pella Hedeby Swedes and Danes are skilled at layering bedding in the most welcoming way.
This often includes a blend of linen sheets, wool blankets, and a small collection of accent pillows, often in muted tone-on-tone hues. Iconic lighting is also common in Scandinavian bedrooms, often using the ceiling fixture and bedside lamp to make a modern statement.
When color is used in Scandinavian interiors, it's often in small bursts or bright hues—almost in a gallery style. For instance, in this light-and-bright living room, a neutral base is brought to life with rugs and throws in blue and purple hues, while the various artwork provides a sharp burst of color.
Courtesy of Fantastic FrankThough they veer more on the modern side, Scandinavian interiors often feature a mix of periods and styles to make a space feel layered and cozy. In this muted dining room, oil paintings in ornate gilded frames hang above a collection of apothecary jars. Above the stark black dining table hangs an oversized industrial pendant.
35 Scandinavian Design Ideas to Try in Your Home
Coco Lapine Design
Striking the right balance between comfort and style is a challenge in any home.
But it’s a task that Scandinavia knows how to tackle. Scandinavia—a region known for its long, dark winters—has mastered the art of spending time indoors, and it’s got the cozy-chic interiors to prove it. Scandinavian words, like the Danish “hygge” and the Swedish “mys” (both loosely meaning “coziness”), have entered our modern-day lexicon. And while they don’t have direct translations, they immediately conjure up images of impossibly simple, impossibly cozy interiors that just work.
“Scandinavian design is simple and intentional,” Jennifer Davis, founder and principal designer at Davis Interiors, says. “Everything has a purpose, and overall, it is a very clean look.” Expect to see soft neutral colors, natural materials, and lots of cozy textures.
“The next time you see an interior that elevates your soul and warms your heart, you’ll know you’ve spotted the hallmarks of what makes Nordic design so enticing,” Emily Yeates, owner and principal designer at Urban Revival, says.
“Scandinavian design excites the eyes and warms the heart while maintaining an uncluttered simplicity that feels welcoming and safe.”
Since Scandinavian style is both simple and thoughtful, it's not nearly as elusive as it seems, and there are tons of ways to draw inspiration from the design style—even if you’re not preparing for a long, dark winter.
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Liljencrantz
Scandinavia is known for its long, dark winters, so Scandinavians tend to do everything they can to maximize natural light. “When I think of Scandinavian design, I think of spaces that are minimal, thoughtful, and bright,” Sara Cukerbaum, principal designer at SLIC Design, says.
So ditch the heavy window treatments, and let in all the light you can. Consider using reflective accents—like white-filled palettes and shiny tiles—to amplify the natural light streaming through your windows.
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Cathie Hong Interiors
Though our visions of hygge may involve lots of cozy pillows and chunky blankets, Scandinavian design tends to be pretty minimal.
“Scandinavian design really focuses on creating an environment of uncluttered simplicity,” Yeates says. “In an age of overly styled spaces, it’s a breath of fresh air to really focus on what is functional, practical, and socially responsible.”
Instead of embarking on a Scandinavian shopping spree, consider paring down what you already own.
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Bespoke Only
Scandinavian design puts comfort first, utilizing serene palettes that are easy on the eye. “Instead of bright and colorful patterns, you will see lots of textured upholstery mixed with white walls and cool earth tones,” Cukerbaum says.
And Jade Joyner, founder and principal designer at Metal + Petal, agrees: “To make your space feel more Nordic, I suggest you pare back on color and accessories. Focus on neutrals and wood tones, instead.”
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Liljencrantz
Scandinavian design may be minimal, but it’s not all right angles and sleek finishes. “Add interest by choosing interesting and organic shapes that could be found in nature,” Yeates says.
“Don’t shy away from curves where you’d predict there to be straight edges or brutalist lines.”
If you stumble upon a curvy coffee table you love, don’t just snag it—make it a focal point in your space.
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Anne Sage
The secret to achieving that coveted Scandinavian look may be right under your feet. “The current trend of white oak floors is a nod to Scandinavian design,” Cukerbaum says. “It's an easy way to incorporate a clean and bright feel to your home.”
Of course, you may not be in a position to fully refinish your floors. But even if you’re navigating some seriously dark hardwoods, you can always brighten them up with a light-colored rug.
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Bespoke Only
Scandinavian interiors rarely incorporate furniture or décor merely to fill space. Instead, they put function first. “In Scandinavian design, everything has a purpose,” Davis says. This means filling a room with items you need—and leaving negative space where nothing is necessary.
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Liljencrantz
In many aesthetics, you’ll find shiny metals, sleek plastics, and textured concrete. But in Scandinavian design, you’ll see earthier options—like thick wools and rustic woods—instead.
“Scandinavian design emphasizes the use of natural materials,” Mary Beth Christopher, principal designer at MBC Interiors, says. “Think: woods and grasses, and fabrics made from wool, linen, nubby cotton, and even fleece.”
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Post Company
Searching for a way to add personality to your pared-down Scandinavian space? Add a little statement lighting. Because while the Scandinavians may be known for their minimal approach to interiors, they’re also famous for their playful take on modern design. “Add some statement lighting that is also functional,” Davis says.
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Ashley Montgomery Design
Scandinavian interiors tend to be pretty minimal in terms of both color and décor. But thanks to their emphasis on texture, they’re anything but boring.
“Swap patterns for textures,” Cukberaum says. Pair your plushest sheepskin throws with your most rustic wood pieces—and throw in a woven jute rug for good measure.
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Liljencrantz
In some design styles, plain white walls would signal unfinished business—a space that has yet to be decorated. But when function is your core concern, negative space is both welcome and necessary. So make like the Scandinavian and learn to embrace the plain white wall.
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Cathie Hong Interiors
Hoping to get that uncluttered look without giving up all your hobbies and possessions? Invest in your storage set-up. “Adding built-in cabinetry and hiding all the clutter is an easy way to bring this minimalist style into your space,” Cukerbaum says.
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Photo: Amy Bartlam, Design: Hive LA Home
Don’t forget to sprinkle in some cozy finishing touches. Little items—like cozy candles and plush rugs—may not top your to-buy list, but they’re the things that’ll make your space feel warm and inviting.
“Once you have a clean foundation, you don’t need to add much,” Davis says. “A few plants, a textured rug, a cozy throw, a beautifully scented candle—anything that makes the space feel welcoming and restful.”
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Katie Martinez Design
Windows aren’t just a great way to let in some light—they can also connect you with the outdoors, putting a striking view on full display. “I try to capitalize on the opportunity to bring the outdoors in,” Joyner says. “I really contemplate the use of space and how to capture the exterior views and make them feel one and the same with the interior.”
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Bauer Media Group
Scandinavian design may be sleek and minimal, but unmade beds are very welcome. “The key is to make the space look lived-in,” Niki Brantmark, creator of My Scandinavian Home, says. So leave your blankets bunched up, and welcome a few wrinkles in your sheets. “Messy, creased, stonewashed linen in earthy colors is almost a must right now,” Brantmark adds.
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Liljencrantz
Despite the emphasis on earthy neutrals, there is a place for color in Scandinavian design. “In recent years, there has been a surge in accent walls in dark blue, green, gray, and even black,” Brantmark says. “These do wonders for a cozy, cocoon-like space.” And if you’re not willing to commit to a new coat of paint, don’t fret—you can get a similar look by hanging dark drapes over one of your walls.
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Katherine Carter
One easy way to add color to your space, without disrupting your sleek Scandinavian palette? Sprinkle in some plants. “Scandinavians often draw on the nature outside them for inspiration, which is why plants and flowers are popular,” Brantmark says.
And Mary Beth Christopher agrees, noting that a lack of plants is one of the biggest mistakes she sees people make when designing Scandinavian interiors. “Adding in beautiful green plants not only adds color, but gives a space life,” Christopher says.
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Liljencrantz
Scandinavian designers lay claim to some of the most iconic furniture designs of the last century. “Invest in one beautiful Scandinavian piece of furniture and build your space around it,” Joyner says. Pay homage to the great designs of Jens Risom or Hans Wegner, or check out some designs by Scandinavia’s many contemporary designers. (Brantmark notes that Muuto, HAY, and Tradition are some of her favorites.)
For Scandinavian Furniture, Go Beyond IKEA With These 11 Brands
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Ashley Montgomery Design
Minimal interiors can come across as cold and impersonal, but Scandinavian spaces manage to feel both sleek and cozy. How? They keep the focus on everyday life.
“Scandinavian style is simple, but it is not necessarily minimal,” Yeates says. “Instead, Scandinavian design focuses more on ordinary life, versus a strictly minimalist lifestyle.”
Once again, this means prioritizing function over form. So don’t swap out your cutting board the moment it gets a few scratches.
Instead, put it on display—wear and all.
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Design: Sandra Fox Interiors, Photo: Amy Bartlam
Wood is a key ingredient in any Scandinavian interior. (Really, virtually every designer we spoke to cited “wood tones” as a hallmark of Scandinavian design.) And the good news is: you don’t have to stick to just one type of wood. By layering different wood tones—some light oaks, some rosy pines, some dark walnuts—you can craft a space that feels both dynamic and warm.
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Design: Yael Weiss Interiors, Photo: Sketch Forty Two
Scandinavian interiors may be filled with sleek, modern pieces. But resist the urge to stock up on all-new-everything.
“I can’t tell you how many high-end homes miss the mark with Scandinavian style by making it too new,” Tony Mariotti, CEO and founder of RubyHome, says. “The key is to make your space look lived in.”
Balance out your sleekest pieces with a few weathered antiques. These history-filled pieces should add harmony and personality to your home in equal measure.
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Jenn Pablo Studio
Prints may not abound in Scandinavian design, but that doesn’t mean they’re off the menu entirely. Snag a few printed cushions or add a pop of playful wallpaper. As long as you don’t overdo it, these cheeky touches will complement your sleek aesthetic.
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Post Company
“Scandinavian design centers around truth to materials and craftsmanship,” Yeates says. Visit some local artisans or stop by your nearest flea market and see what they have to offer. A few handmade objects can be the perfect way to add personality to your space.
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Liljencrantz
Drapes make a classic addition to many interiors, but in Scandinavian space, you’ll see a much more minimal take on curtains. “Curtains are kept simple and fuss-free and often in a beautiful sheer linen,” Brantmark says. “Don't be fooled, though. There is nearly always a near-invisible blackout blind tightly rolled up behind the linen for summer nights when the sun barely dips below the horizon.
”
Keep your daytime curtains simple and sheer. But don’t be afraid to unroll some thick, cozy blinds during the evening.
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Post Company
Don’t feel like you have to turn your space into a sleek showroom. “True Scandinavian interiors are anything but trendy,” Yeates says. “They’re classic and often rustic.”
Embrace exposed structural beams and rustic wooden furniture. When paired with sleeker, more modern pieces, these rustic touches are what “designer dreams are made of,” Yeates says. (At least, she adds, they’re what her designer dreams are made of.)
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Post Company
One mistake people often make with Scandinavian design? “Adding in too much gray,” Christopher says. Balance out your neutrals with some thoughtful pops of color. She recommends using decorative accents, like pillows, to sprinkle in “accents of rich, saturated color.”
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Coco Lapine Design
Scandinavian spaces may be bright and light-filled during the daytime.
But come evening, some mood lighting may be in order. “A dimmed lamp or lit candle (kept well away from the curtains) on the windowsill ensures a warm and inviting feel both inside and out,” Brantmark says.
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Reena Sotropa
When crafting a Scandinavian space, try to stay away from chunky pieces. “Think: clean and simple lines,” Sarah Simon, interior designer and president at Handsome Salt, says. Stock up on furniture boasting sleek shapes and clean lines, and opt for pieces that are free of ornamentation.
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Liljencrantz
If your space starts to feel too cold or sterile, try bringing some warmth into your palette. “Scandinavian design is about warmth, and too much grey can make a space feel cold,” Christopher says. “The key is balancing out the more neutral color palette with warm wood tones.”
Sprinkle in some earth tones, and let them warm up your space. What’s nice? “These warm tones also play nicely with more saturated colors,” Christopher says.
So they should set you up to add some bolder pops of color, too.
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Katie Hodges Design
Putting function first isn’t just about scoring practical pieces. It’s also about laying out your space in a sensible way. “Scandinavian interior design focuses on functionality—finding a space and place for activities and things,” Cukerbaum says. Think about how you actually use your space. Then, make decisions that’ll make your go-to activities as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.
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Coco Lapine Design
Even with a pared-down neutral palette, there are still opportunities to create some drama. “I love working with natural wood and the high contrast of black and white tones,” Davis says. So balance out your lightest pieces with a few dark accessories. (Pillows, art, books, and candlesticks are all capable of adding some contrast to your space.)
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Liljencrantz
One bonus of a scaled-down Scandinavian interior? Needing fewer pieces means you can splurge on a couple of show-stoppers.
“There’s a strong emphasis on quality over quantity,” Christopher says.
Invest in a couple of high-quality pieces, and use them to elevate the rest of your space. (Your budget-friendly IKEA favorites will look a lot more expensive when paired with some fancy wood furniture.)
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Coco Lapine Design
A space is a multi-sensory experience—not just a visual one. So think about how you want your space to feel, in addition to how you want it to look. “Scandinavian spaces are intentionally created to prioritize function, improve mood, and provide a sanctuary-type environment to return home to every day,” Yeates says.
Cozy up your couch with a textured throw, freshen up your space with some fragrant candles, and treat yourself to a portable breakfast-in-bed tray.
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Ashley Montgomery Design
Love another aesthetic as much as you love Scandinavian style? Draw inspiration from both. “Scandinavian design pulls from both modern and midcentury design, so don't feel pressure to commit to just one design style,” Cukerbaum says.
And Yeates agrees: “You can appreciate several different styles and incorporate various elements in a tasteful way.” Keep the focus on pieces that work for you and your family, and you’re likely to end up with a space you love.
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Coco Lapine Design
Designing a space takes time. So let your space come together layer by layer and bit by bit. “Take time to choose tasteful, functional pieces,” Yeates says. And Davis agrees: “Begin with a neutral palette, then add key pieces that bring you joy and are highly functional.”
What’s nice about this approach is that by taking your time, you’re unlikely to overwhelm your space with clutter. And you’ll naturally end up with the curated aesthetic that makes Scandinavian design so special. “There isn’t a lot of extra stuff, but what is there is warm, inviting, and comfortable,” Davis says of classic Scandinavian design.
12 Design Commandments We Learned From Cool Scandinavian Homes
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"Your Guide To Scandinavian Soap Finish For Wood Furniture And Floors". Woca Woodcare, 2021.
75 ideas for a light and cozy interior - INMYROOM
Scandinavian style in the interior is quite popular. It favorably combines lightness and simplicity, comfort and freedom for imagination, originality and at the same time relevance. High quality natural materials versatility, simplicity of forms and delicate colors - this is the basis scandinavian style in the interior. It is characterized by the use of concise and graceful shapes and designs, which are made of multi-layered wood.
Scandinavian style in the interior is different a certain restraint and severity, which is characteristic of the northern peoples. Exactly therefore, the interior in the Scandinavian style is always made in light pastel colors. colors, has a small number of decorative elements, materials are always simple and most often natural.
With all its simplicity and conciseness, Scandinavian interior design is quite original. It has some order and tranquility.
Colored palette
The basis of the Scandinavian style, of course, is considered White color. It acts as a blank slate, where each element of the interior does not go unnoticed and plays a role in the overall picture. The very lightness and simplicity lies in the use of a large amount of white and natural light. But white is not a panacea, welcome use of various pastel colors. It can be soft blue or light green, all shades of beige and brown. To give the interior dynamism and correctly place accents, designers advise using rich shades of blue, green and red. nine0003
Quality materials
This style involves the use of natural materials. Genuine leather, various types of fur, stone and, of course, wood emphasize the closeness to nature of Scandinavian-style interiors. Not alien will look like high-quality metal or glass, but the use plastic can ruin the whole look.
Artificial materials can be used only when they mimic natural ones well.
Items furniture
Scandinavian style furniture is always practical and simple. It differs not only in beauty, but also in high functionality. Naturally, the furniture should be made of natural materials, mainly light shades of wood. It can be beech or birch, less often pine or spruce.
Windows
Good natural light is essential scandinavian style. Such an interior requires a lot of light and preferably soft and natural. That is why the room should have large windows and light curtains that let the sun through. They can be made from linen or cotton. nine0003
Design walls and floors
In the design of walls and floors, light shades. Usually the walls are simply plastered and painted in light shades. Sometimes use wooden panels, which can be lined not only with walls, but also the ceiling.
Room decoration
Room decoration in Scandinavian style is always characterized by simplicity and conciseness.
Most often the walls are leveled, plastered and evenly painted. To create an accent wall, you can use brickwork or bright wallpaper. The main thing is not use too many colorful elements. Ceilings in rooms should be smooth and light. Wood panels are a rare exception. nine0003
Scandinavian-style interiors are characterized by delicate colors. It is allowed to use not only warm shades, but and colder. Designers call this combination the colors of the Baltic Sea. This includes pastel blues, pure grays and light greens. From warm shades it is worth paying attention to amber, sunny, gentle sand. Similar tones allow you to add a room comfort and warmth.
Black elements look interesting on a white background, it doesn’t matter if it’s furniture or decor. Bright accents will allow you to place rich shades red, blue or green. But, it is important to understand that such accents are only complement the overall decor, but are never the main elements. nine0003
Building materials are simple and naturalness.
In Scandinavian-style repairs, glass is used, high-quality metal, stone and ceramics, leather. Plastic should be abandoned, however, with competent selection in modern interiors of the Scandinavian style, you can use this material. Such an interior is simply replete with natural and quality materials.
Complex elements in the design of the walls are not used. Usually, they are simply leveled, plastered and painted. At the same time, the color uniform, and the surface of the walls is even without any flaws. To dilute the decor sometimes use wallpaper or brickwork. Thus, create an "accent wall". It is important that there should be only one such element in the room, since unnecessary bright details in the repair in the Scandinavian style are not use. nine0003
There are two ways to finish floors:
1. Floors decorated with wood. Shades of wood are predominantly light, often bleached. or tinted.
2. For kitchens and bathrooms use ceramic tiles.
Furniture
In addition to the appearance, furniture in Scandinavian the interior is always multifunctional.
Not so much come out on top decorative qualities, how much convenience for living. Large the number of spacious cabinets, shelves, various niches. Furniture can be light colors as well as dark ones. For example, a large dark-colored wardrobe will great bright accent. The main thing is that the furniture set is made of natural wood. and well made. It is recommended to choose upholstered furniture with upholstery from natural fabrics. nine0003
Lighting
Lighting in a Scandinavian interior should be soft and plentiful. Scandinavian style interiors require natural lighting, so most of the apartments and houses of the inhabitants of the Scandinavian countries have large windows. No need to try to close them completely, because during the day The problem of lighting is solved by natural light. Desirable use small curtains (roller blinds) made of natural materials, such as cotton or linen.
In addition, a large number of glossy and white surfaces, as well as mirrors, reflect light and make the room more spacious.
Artificial lamps are usually located in separate work areas. In the evening, you can light candles, which will give additional a bit of comfort. The Scandinavians do not accept artificial lighting in the evenings. nine0003
Decor
The main difference between the Scandinavian interior and more familiar and simple in that the Scandinavians do not use live plants. Most often they decorate a room with various paintings and products from untreated wood. In particular, unusual tables made of stumps, boards made of rough wood or massive branches. Pictures usually have a natural ornament. Actively use the skins of animals, which are placed on the floor or sofa. Decorative elements add brightness and liveliness to the setting. For decor, designers recommend using textiles with Scandinavian patterns. nine0003
Interior features of different rooms
Light colors and natural lightness will be appropriate in any room in your house or apartment. It is only necessary to take into account the features design for maximum coziness and comfort.
Living room
Scandinavian style in the interior of the living room looks very organic because it is quite practical and easy to care for. In such a lot of time is spent in the room, so it should be comfortable and yet beautiful and comfortable. It is this style that meets these requirements. Open windows may not be appropriate in the bedroom, but in the living room it is applicable. In addition, the boring environment is easy to update using only a couple of new paintings and replacing some accessories. To organize the library you will have to buy a lot of special cabinets, it’s enough to make open shelves and arrange books. nine0003
Kitchen
room decoration and darker wooden facades. Ceramic tiles can be both a uniform color and with a bright pattern that will dilute the pastel finishing shades. Natural lighting allows you to make the room not only cozy yet practical. This room will not need special care, which important for this space. Kitchen cabinets are suitable for such an interior.
electrical appliances that are made in retro style. nine0003
Bedroom
Scandinavian style bedroom will be very spacious and well lit. True, there may be problems with open windows, as this is a rather intimate area. However, everything is solved with small roller-type curtains made of natural materials. Enough furniture there will be a large comfortable bed, a pair of bedside tables, several floor lamps and a place for storage of things. The latter are usually of two types: just an open hanger for coat hangers or a small but spacious closet. From huge wardrobes worth giving up. nine0003
Photo gallery
Lightness and naturalness of interiors in the Scandinavian style.
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Scandinavian style decor: 10 important nuances
Where to hang the horns? Why is wire needed? What posters to choose? Let's reveal some secrets of Scandinavian decor.
Scandinavian design is ideal for those who value simplicity, comfort and sustainability.
Its main task is to fill the room with light, breathe warmth and maximum comfort into it. It gets along especially well in small and poorly lit rooms, making them visually more voluminous and comfortable. Decor in such interiors, as a rule, is not much. It sets the necessary rhythm, dilutes the monochrome palette and fills the space with the spirit of Scandinavia. nine0093 What accessories and finishes will help?
1. White background
The main color of the Scandinavian interior is white. Walls, ceilings, doors, window frames are painted in it. On it, as on a blank sheet of paper, it is easy to combine furniture and decor details. It is worth filling the room with only the most necessary items in order to preserve the main functions of white - light and volume.
If pure white seems too dazzling and intense, then it can be replaced with neutral shades of ivory, milky, cream, sand, light gray, beige, pale blue, soft pink, almond, linen, etc.
. nine0003
It is important to note that flaws are more visible on a white surface, so walls and ceilings must be perfectly even and well prepared for painting. At the junction of walls and ceiling, it is desirable to put at least a small plinth in width, which will hide possible cracks due to shrinkage of the building.
2. Wooden base
The ideal option for flooring in Scandi interiors are wide planks made of natural wood. They will give a natural, slightly rough texture that will effectively contrast with the smooth white walls and ceiling. In addition, the tree always brings warmth and comfort. nine0003
Oak, pine, beech, ash and spruce boards are well suited for this purpose. The color of the tree can be either dark or light. Often the floor is painted white for the most light space. To preserve the natural shade of the wood, varnish or colorless oil is used.
Another trend is the intentional aging of floorboards.
This creates a sense of habitation, authenticity and individuality. Herringbone parquet boards are ideally combined with the northern decor. They will emphasize the theme of nature and ecology. A more affordable alternative to natural wood is laminate. nine0003
Concrete gray flooring and large, plain tiles in neutral tones are good in wet areas, but also acceptable in the living room. The cold surface of such floors will be warmed by mats, skins, furs and carpets made from natural materials. They will help reduce the noise level.
3. Accent Walls
The easiest way is to level the walls and paint them white or light neutrals. This creates an endless number of decor options. An alternative to paint is wide lining or wood panels. nine0003
If you want to highlight one of the walls, then you can do it with the help of slatted panels made of wood, brickwork, wallpaper with colorful geometric or floral patterns, or open shelves with books and original accessories.
Concrete walls are also not uncommon. They give the interior a loft touch, which has become fashionable lately. White clinker tiles or natural stone are traditionally used in the kitchen and bathroom.
4. Nostalgia for the past
Scandinavian décor has a slight touch of time, which is expressed in aged surfaces, worn rugs, retro furniture, in a stack of old suitcases, second-hand books, chests, vintage posters, etc. with the past, awaken nostalgia and bring a unique charm, comfort, and peace to the interior.
An old bicycle or a mirror can be given a second life by painting it, hanging it on a wall or placing it in the corner of a room. nine0003
A popular item in Scandinavian decor is wire. She is experiencing a new birth in the interior. Stylish lampshades, sculptures, inscriptions, dishes, furniture, hangers and other household items are made from it.
5. Subdued light
Scandi interiors do their best to preserve natural light: white background, bare windows, mirrors.
But during the long northern winters, this is not enough. Therefore, artificial light should also be well thought out. An important role is played by a subdued, side light, which literally every corner of the house is endowed with. This maintains an atmosphere of comfort, friendliness and tranquility. nine0003
Ceiling chandeliers are rare. Instead, soft light is emitted by laconic floor lamps, clusters of bare light bulbs, wall sconces, garlands over the bed, spotlights, table lamps.
The appearance of luminaires is an important part of the design. Original author's copies made of natural materials with adjustable bases are welcome. Industrial lamps fit perfectly into Scandi interiors.
6. Furniture eclectic
Residents of Scandinavia do not tolerate unnecessary things and prefer only the necessary, functional furniture with a thoughtful storage system. To brighten up a minimalist interior, it is permissible to play with styles: a vintage sofa can easily get along with a wicker chair, metal “loft” chairs and a bohemian velvet wedge.
There is no need to buy a furniture set and select furniture with the same color and upholstery. A mix of different textures is welcome. Next to a soft sofa with a bunch of decorative pillows, you can put a coffee table with a solid wood top or a stump, and place a leather or knitted pouffe opposite a wicker rattan chair. nine0003
To save space, wardrobes are replaced with metal or wooden hanger rods. It is fixed on a mobile stand, or to the ceiling with ropes. So clothes become an element of decor.
7. Black and white exhibition
Instead of picturesque paintings, Scandinavians prefer laconic black and white or gray posters. They look great on a snow-white background. It is recommended to combine black and white posters, photos and graphic posters. This will give the interior a special style and unique character. nine0003
If you want to place several posters or photos on the wall at once, do it asymmetrically, without being afraid to combine frames of different sizes.
Posters on the theme of Scandinavian nature are suitable as illustrations: images of mysterious forests, mountains, fjords or the harsh northern sea.
8. Colorful textiles
Textiles play a special role in the Scandinavian interior. The main requirement is natural, breathable materials. Curtains for maximum daylight transmission are sewn from light light linen or cotton. But they are more used for decorative purposes, and the windows are often left bare. nine0003
The floor is usually covered with jute mats, pure wool or cotton carpet, animal skins, flokati, etc. Beds in the bedroom are made up with several layers of soft blankets. To contrast with white, bright shades of red, blue, green, purple, and yellow are used in textiles.
Scandinavian design is traditionally based on geometric, floral prints or patterns from the 1960s and 70s. If the table is covered with a tablecloth with a graphic pattern, then you should not decorate the wall with wallpaper with a similar print, avoiding excessive variegation.
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9. Cozy warmth
In the harsh Scandinavian climate, a house must be warm. That is why there are many items in the interior that support the feeling of coziness and warmth: numerous pillows on the sofa, a headboard made of genuine leather, animal skins, wall carpets, knitted and fur products, soft toys with the theme of the north.
The most warming element of the house is the hearth. In addition to a real fireplace, its role is played by voluminous candlesticks, candles on a tray and artificial fireplaces. From improvised materials, you can make (or purchase a finished one) a fireplace arch and put several voluminous white candles in it. nine0003
10. Breath of the forest
The eco-component is important in the Scandi style, so there are many items from the wild in the decor: animal horns, skins, real stumps, tree cuts, branches, cones, shells, fresh flowers, etc.
Walls can be decorated with a herbarium in a frame, a candlestick made of twigs, a mirror in a wooden frame, a pot with live plants.
