The simplicity of minimalism and the comfort of hygge meet in the Scandinavian style! Learn more about this ever popular style & how you can bring it home!

If you have any interest in interiors, you’ll have heard of IKEA, and if you know anything about IKEA, you’ll know that it’s based on Scandinavian design! This decor style is immensely popular across the globe, thanks to its inherent simplicity and elegance.

Decor Styles 101: Scandinavian

Scandinavian style, as its name suggests, originates from the design sensibilities of the Scandinavian countries, namely Sweden, Norway and Denmark. After the Great Depression in 1929, there was a move towards a simpler life and this is reflected in the minimalist nature of Scandinavian design. After the World War  in 1939, people began to move further towards using natural materials and focusing less on consumerism.

Scandinavian countries see long winters and so there is a focus on hygge, the Danish philosophy of creating a warm, cozy, comfortable atmosphere at home. Practicality was given priority, and as a result most furniture is utilitarian, often serving multiple purposes.

You’ve probably heard a lot about this decor style, but if you’re confused about the details – don’t worry! Here is a list of the main characteristics of Scandinavian decor.

Characteristics of Scandinavian Style

• Scandinavian designs often leave the walls blank, painted white or cream
• The flooring is generally bare and light colored, often paneled in wood
• Most of the furniture is in light wood or painted white
• Furnishings are abundant in the form of throws, blankets and rugs, since Scandinavian countries are cold
• The overall vibe is quite minimalistic and doesn’t have too many ornamental pieces
• Live plants and flowers feature prominently in Scandinavian design

7 Ways to bring Scandinavian Style to your Space

1. Go with Neutral Colors

Scandinavian design is based on nature, and as a result the colors are mainly light neutrals like gray, white, beige and browns. There is also a bit of contrast in the form of black or dark grey. While bright, saturated shades or neon colors are completely out, other colors like blue and green are often found. The wood used is a light color, like pine or rubber.

2. Play with Textures

Since the colors used in Scandinavian design are rather bland, the interest is created via textures. Due to the low temperatures of the Scandinavian countries, the style features thick fabrics like mohair, faux fur and sheepskin. Leather is also widely used along with a mix of wood and metal in furniture. Rugs are thick and shaggy, and there are often accessories like knit blankets or knotted pillows.

3. Focus on Lighting

Since Scandinavian countries don’t get too much of summer, sunlight is treated as a special commodity. As a result, windows are often left bare without any treatments. If you do need drapes, go for sheer curtains that add a beautiful ethereal effect. Lighting fixtures can be in the form of floor lamps, wall sconces or pendant lamps. These can be made of metal, wicker or even paper.

4. Leave Space

Scandinavian style is all about practicality and functionality over form. This is why it is said to border on minimalism. Leave a lot of space – around furniture as well as around decor pieces. Use lots of good looking storage like boxes and baskets to corral smaller items to reduce visual clutter. Another idea is to get furniture that also has hidden storage. Arrange furniture so there is free flow of movement.

5. Include Elements of Hygge

You’ve probably heard of hygge and how it became all the more popular when people were locked down indoors. Hygge is actually a state of mind, but you can make your interiors reflect this sentiment by bringing in cozy elements like blankets, fluffy pillows, candles or fairy lights. Layer your bedding and add curtains around the bed to make the place cozier.

6. Keep Decor Simple

While decor accents as such are minimal in the Scandinavian design, you can still include some pieces that fit in with the overall aesthetic of the style. Gallery walls are popular in this decor style, and they often feature matching paintings or pictures that share a common theme – usually related to nature. Patterns in this style are generally uncomplicated, like stripes, checks or chevron.

7. Bring in Lots of Plants

As mentioned earlier, Scandinavian design is minimalist which is why you won’t find too much decor, but one exception is live plants and flowers. Go ahead and insert bright pops of green in every corner of your home. Fresh flowers in glass vases are also a classic Scandinavian decor element and an easy way to introduce color in your decor.

Scandinavian style is easy to include in your home, but it needs to have a certain cohesive look to be effective. You can definitely mix in a few other styles like boho chic, farmhouse or organic, but avoid anything too glam or industrial. The people of Scandinavian countries are very respectful of nature, so make sure to imbibe that spirit when decorating your home in this style. You’ll enjoy the expansiveness that comes from the lack of clutter and the in built coziness!

This post is a part of the Blogchatter A2Z Blogging Challenge 2021.