The Scandinavian interior design follows the philosophy that there is beauty in simplicity. This definition of aesthetics has represented a feeling of minimalist design and utility since its debut in the early 20th century.
01. What is Scandinavian Design?
In Scandinavia, there is a strong emphasis on design that supports the house and healthy living- everything’s made to promote that idea. A furniture maker, painter, or carpenter’s performance revolves on how it will benefit the home and the environment while also improving one’s quality of life.
Scandinavian Design has influenced everything from architecture to product design. It initially appeared in the Nordic nations in the early twentieth century and gained popularity in the 1950s. Scandinavian Interior Design is a minimalistic design that incorporates a variety of textures and soft colors to make sleek, modern décor seem warm and welcoming. Clean lines, practicality, and basic, functional, warm, and aesthetic furniture combine minimalism with functionalism.
The immediate impact of a piece on the body is an essential aspect of design-as-lifestyle. It’s about how an item compliments the person who uses it, not only how it is designed in a modern or ancient way.
02. History of Scandinavian Design
For hundreds of years, the Scandinavians valued ecological design methods long before it was fashionable. Even though it had its glory in the 17th century, Scandinavia has remained poor and isolated for the majority of its history due to the difficulty of dealing with other nations. As a result of this battle, design became regionalized, with manufacturers and artisans using materials from their backyards for their bespoke creations. Originated at the turn of XIX and XX centuries, this stylistic direction has received a wide response throughout the world. The key to the success of Nordic design is the presence of humanistic ideas in it.
During the Napoleonic era, empirical elements such as darker-toned woods and the growth of campaign furniture influenced Scandinavian design once again. With the Arts and Crafts movement, it was reinterpreted once more. People were inspired to preserve their country’s crafts and architecture during a period when one out of every five Swedes fled to America due to economic stress, famine, and harsh living conditions. This gave birth to a Swedish revival, with tradition blended with functionalism and personalization.
With the establishment of IKEA in the middle of WWII, the mid-century minimalist design niche was born. This reinforced Scandinavian design’s basic ideas of designing components for the body, giving each item a function, and making design accessible to everybody.
03. Scandinavian Interior Design Characteristics
Background:
Scandinavia refers to the Nordic nations of Denmark, Sweden, and Norway. Many people characterize the design from there as minimalist design, with clean, basic lines. The style is highly practical and effective without the use of heavy components. The beauty of this style was derived from the delicate ornamental characteristics of early twentieth-century art movements and the clean lines of interwar art movements.
Influences:
Local organizations, such as the long-established Swedish Society of Industrial Design, influenced this philosophy with a mission to encourage design that the general people might appreciate. Social developments in Europe at the time had a significant impact on such aims. Although the designs were democratic and intended for the public, they were not stripped of all beauty to make them as simple to use as possible, which was a novel idea at the time. Scandinavian architecture style was recognized for necessity of this equilibrium early on and have maintained it ever since.
Features:
With the foundation of The Lunning Prize in the 1950s, the distinctive components that came to characterize the Nordic style- minimalist white walls, wood flooring, and modern decor began to take form. The Scandinavian design incorporates a range of ideas and features to create a balance between utility, modernity, and comfort.
Designers exploited negative space to their advantage, making room layouts straightforward with a minimalistic approach to the number of components needed.
Colors and Materials:
The Scandinavian interior design is more than just form-bent wood furniture in varying hues of white and patterns and shapes inspired by nature. Colorful splashes have long been a staple of Nordic home design.
Scandinavian design uses white walls to emphasize light. A neutral-heavy palette is fused with pops of color.
Famous Designers:
Verner Panton, one of Denmark’s most prominent designers, is recognized for his aggressive and abstract work from the 1960s, which focused on new materials. Panton’s works were distinct from those of his contemporaries, and his emphasis was on what we now call Pop Art. His art was dominated by bright, dramatic colors and futuristic forms. His ideas, as well as those of Finnish designer Eero Aarnio and Finnish-American Eero Saarinen, have been employed to create a futuristic appearance in some film projects and innumerable photo sessions.
Scandinavian design is recognized for its many contributions to furniture design, which may be its most enduring legacy, in addition to impacting how we build our homes. Arne Jacobson’s Egg, Drop, and Swan chairs, as well as Finnish designer Alvar Aalto’s renowned curved wood armchairs, have left an indelible mark.
04. 11 Tips for Designing Scandinavian Homes
Scandinavian interior design has a way of making you feel valued and joyful no matter where you are in life. People instinctively feel supported by Scandinavian items and design because the high-quality textures are attractive and pleasant.
Tip 1: Blend Metallic in Accents and Finishes
The concept of having less, to begin with, is linked to maintaining a room clutter-free. In Scandinavian interior design, the amount of decoration is reduced to a minimum. The use of bare walls and vacant areas is not frowned upon. Walls, wood slats, and flooring are all common ways to incorporate wood into a space’s architecture. Wooden toys, such as the renowned wooden monkey designed by Danish designer Kay Bojesen and debuted in 1951, may be used as fun highlights in interiors.
However, a current trend in Scandinavian interior design is to blend metallic treatments with timber pieces. Copper sconces and brass pendants, for example, are put on a wooden ceiling to provide shimmer and glitter to the room.
Tip 2: Neutral and Natural Palettes
A neutral-heavy color palette is common in Scandinavian design. Because Northern Europe’s winters are long and gloomy, Nordic design makes use of whites, greys, and tans to make a room feel consistent and cheerful. Accents of blue and other strong hues are also frequently used.
The most common material in the palette is wood which can be incorporated on wall claddings or even ceilings to add texture and cosines to the room.
Tip 3: Sleek and Clean-lined Furniture
Designers like Hans Wegner, Alvar Aalto, and Arne Jacobsen from the mid-century period stand out in the field of Scandinavian architecture and furniture are as lovely today as they were when they were created. Clean lines should be obvious when it comes to the usage of furniture in a Scandinavian design. Tables, chairs, couches, and the rest of the Scandinavian décor should be sleek and rounded.
Tip 4: Lighting Variety
Lighting is the main key in Scandinavian interior designs.
With as few as seven hours of sunshine during the winter months, the use of lighting in the architecture is critical to traditional Scandinavian design. People spend a lot more time indoors during the winter months since daylight is a transitory privilege. It is critical to have a variety of lighting options when designing a Scandinavian environment, not just to assist to create a warm and inviting atmosphere, but also to boost the mood.
Tip 5: Blend of Textures and Patterns
Scandinavian interior designs have a comfortable combination of textures and patterns, with basic, clean-lined furniture and subdued grey tones that may easily give off the impression of being chilly and welcoming. A comfortable blend of textures, such as the kilim rug and sheepskin, creates a welcome and warm atmosphere.
Scandinavians love experimenting with different designs. The designs are extremely striking. It’s all about identifying patterns that functionalism, so that patterns and design may even be blended into timber flooring and drape textiles.
Tip 6: Welcome Nature Elements in Scandinavian Decor
In the Scandinavian style, it is vital to have live elements of color and beauty. A Copenhagen resident stated, “Fresh flowers are not a luxury, they’re a need.”
House plants play an important role in Scandinavian Interior Design as principles of sustainability and environmental friendliness.
Greenery can liven up a room and brighten it up. In Scandinavian home design, window coverings are often simple, and plants are frequently displayed so that all available natural light may shine in.
Tip 7: Glam quotient with Minimalist design
Scandinavian design is based on the principle of “less is more.” Scandinavian homes in the 1950s and 1960s were usually tiny, limiting the number of decorative objects and accents that could be used. As a result, designers minimize elaborate or unnecessary decoration, and storage is strategically placed.
The decor’s minimalism and minimalist design approach contribute to the overall design’s glam factor.
Tip 8: The Basic Art!
Although bright artwork is rarely utilized in Scandinavian interior design, it may be seen in graphic multiples. Keeping the room basic is one way to go about it. With midcentury chairs and a floating buffet, the furniture is kept basic.
Hygge style is defined by candles, which are frequently displayed in simple metal candleholders.
Monochrome art is also incorporated in Scandinavian designs. Simple, graphic artwork becomes the highlight and even though being minimalist and casual, it imparts a stylish effect.
Tip 9: Warm-Comforting Accessories
Scandinavian housing used to be more expensive and smaller which made it necessary to design multipurpose furniture. A coffee table that also serves as a storage chest is an example of this.
It’s wise to have dual-purpose furniture and accessories, and they’re especially useful in Scandinavian design.
The majority of nations in the Scandinavian area have exceptionally chilly weather. As a result, warm fabrics are commonly used as accessories in home décor. Throws and rugs made of wool, sheepskins, or mohair are some examples of these fabrics. Warm fabrics, especially in the winter, are a fantastic way to make a Scandinavian living space seem comfortable and warm.
Tip 10: Forms and Functionalism- Creativity & Practicality
Scandinavian design is known for being both creative and practical. There isn’t a lot of elaborate furniture.
Functionalism had been prominent in Scandinavian architecture for a long time, as seen by the Bauhaus Movement. The harsh temperatures of northern Europe have long encouraged Scandinavians to value efficiency and simplicity above ornamentation. Excessive elaboration inherent by Scandinavian architecture. Modern decor, clean-lined, solid items are far more prevalent, and they are a distinguishing element of Scandinavian interior design.
Tip 11: Warm Layering with Mix of Covers
Nobody beats the Swedes and Danes when it comes to bedding layering. They’re extremely good at doing it in a kind manner that usually consists of a mix of linen sheets, wool blankets, and a modest assortment of accent pillows in subdued tone-on-tone colors.
Lighting is very important in Scandinavian bedrooms. In Scandinavian interior design, the ceiling fixture and bedroom lamp frequently create a contemporary statement.
05. Tips for Designing Scandinavian Homes-Room by Room
The Scandinavian interior design incorporates both modern and natural aspects. Discover how to bring its simple design into your own house.
Living Room:
Living rooms in the Scandinavian interior design should be simple and practical. Straight lines and modern furniture combined with warm accents such as soft area rugs and throw blankets assist to create a living room that feels pleasant without seeming cluttered.
Choose a sleek, comfy sofa with a mid-century modern style that does not take up an excessive lot of room. Wooden angled legs are common on Scandinavian couches. A few throw cushions in subdued hues add comfort and textured features.
Add an area rug to soften the harshness of the wooden components. To provide balance to your space, choose a neutral shag rug or a fake fur or cowhide rug to highlight the natural aspects of the style. Read more about living room design:
Dining Room:
Dining rooms in the Scandinavian interior design should continue the concept of simplicity and cleanliness. Create an open, elegant area that is nevertheless informal enough to dine in.
A modern alternative to chandeliers is pendant lighting that complements the Scandinavian design aesthetic. These simple, powerful lights offer a bright light source over a wooden table. The aesthetics can further be enhanced with potted plants and flowers.
For a more dramatic appearance, go with an all-white dining room complemented with a blue or black sculptural centerpiece, since Scandinavian decor frequently uses great contrasts in their designs.
Bedroom:
The soothing, warm elements of Scandinavian décor should be fully utilized in a Scandinavian-inspired bedroom. You may create a tranquil bedroom atmosphere by utilizing soothing, natural tones, light, modern furniture, and a minimalist design style.
For an easy, elegant aesthetic, choose a low-profile platform bed with an upholstered frame. Avoid bright colors and patterns with white or grey bedding, and top your duvet with a warm fur blanket. Additional illumination can be found in the form of an arc floor lamp or a task floor lamp.
Scandinavian design ideas can be complemented with black-and-white photographs, ink drawings, and charcoal works on paper as artwork. Read more about living room design:
Bathroom:
The bathroom is the most personal place in the house, therefore choosing a new design for it should be done with caution. Whether the space you have is large or little, there is one thing you must remember: clutter in the bathroom must be avoided at all costs.
One of the reasons why the Scandinavian bathroom is becoming increasingly popular is because it is a great example of a clutter-free environment, large or little. It seems modern at first glance, but it also accentuates the decor’s utility.
Clean lines are frequently punctuated by natural materials, neutral hues, and personal accents. Simplicity, usefulness, and beauty are all characteristics of the aesthetic, which serves up clean lines typically accented by natural materials, neutral colors, and personal highlights.
Outdoor Areas:
The backyard is the ideal location to adopt Scandinavian design since it channels the outdoors through bright, natural sunlight and abundant foliage. Patios of all sizes may be transformed into a minimalist design paradise by using Scandinavian design elements.
For a simple Scandinavian presentation, go for an intimate wooden table and chair set with potted succulents or other less maintenance flora set on the table. All seven Scandinavian design principles can be used to accentuate your outdoor space if there is enough space. To anchor the whole seating area, contemporary outdoor furniture can be complemented with white or grey cushions and a bright outdoor rug.
The backyard is the ideal location to adopt Scandinavian design since it channels the outdoors through bright, natural sunlight and abundant foliage. Patios of all sizes may be transformed into a minimalist design paradise by using Scandinavian design elements.
For a simple Scandinavian presentation, go for an intimate wooden table and chair set with potted succulents or other less-maintenance flora set on the table. All seven Scandinavian design principles can be used to accentuate your outdoor space if there is enough space. To anchor the whole seating area, contemporary outdoor furniture can be complemented with white or grey cushions and a bright outdoor rug.
Kitchen:
A Scandinavian kitchen is a welcoming, efficient, and stylish space to cook meals. Keep counters and shelving clear of superfluous products and appliances to highlight the de-cluttered, minimalist design style. The kitchen should be kept simple in terms of décor, except a few Scandinavian-style accents such as a wooden bowl filled with fruit or a vase filled with plants.
Choose herringbone or light wood floors for your floors. Wooden accents may be seen in bar stools and kitchenware. Cabinets should be painted white or grey. Choose backsplashes with geometric designs to provide fresh patterns and textures without detracting from the sleek, minimalist aesthetic. Read more about living room design:
Study Areas:
A Scandinavian study room looks at a multifunctional space approach. A typical study room with a minimalist approach aims at wooden shelves spanning across for extra storage. The texture and the palette of wood bring warmth to the room and sit well with the neutral color palette.
White walls, clean lines, and the somewhat informal charm of rustic materials and colorful decorative accents give the style a distinct charm and appeal.
06. How can you tell if the space is Scandinavian decor style?
Scandinavian houses are known for their simplicity, usefulness, and beauty, with a clean, pared-back design centered on warm practicality, clean lines, faultless workmanship, and subtle elegance. The utilization of light is regarded as crucial, and many Scandinavian homes have earthy subdued tones, honest materials, and little adornment.
A connection to nature is typically reflected in Scandinavian interior design, which incorporates natural forms, abstraction, and the use of natural elements.
At its core, the Scandinavian home design focuses on basic yet effective methods to improve daily living, add style to the mundane, and make it more affordable.
07. What material you shouldn’t use in Scandinavian Interior Design?
Natural elements are utilized to honor nature as a Scandinavian Interior design concept, such as light and bright wood, sculptures inspired by nature, indoor plants, and natural fabric materials with upholstery, such as wool, linen, mohair, sheepskin, burlap, jute, and more. Use natural elements and plants in your settings.
Allow for natural light and views from the outdoors inside the space. Wherever feasible, utilize eco-friendly and long-lasting, sustainable resources in your home. Materials that prove to be damaging to the environment shouldn’t be utilized in any of the Scandinavian decors to honor the natural approach and eco-friendly vision of Scandinavian design.
08. Simple & Practical Design
The Scandinavian design gives you a different vision of designing and interior decor. With simplistic features, it makes a space look elegant and welcoming. The use of natural materials and natural color palette adds warmth to the whole space and makes it feel homely. The design values its function alismover its aesthetics which make the built environment more practical and efficient.
Scandinavian decor is undoubtedly easy to follow approach with minimalist design elements that enhance the overall aesthetics of the space. The result is a design that lives and breathes with great efficiency in the practical aspects.
09. Why Scandinavian Design?-The Future of this Approach…
Scandinavian homes are the pinnacle of simplicity and comfort, embracing the notion of hygge in its entire splendor. The sensation of comfort is enhanced by plush surfaces, soft fabrics, simple patterns, natural materials, and open-plan, airy rooms. Scandinavian houses are refined and comfortable, but they’re also ageless, making them the ideal environment for living well and slowly. Therefore, Scandinavian interior design embodies the pursuit of ergonomics research, integrates the design trend, the trend of thrift and environmental protection, and is a design style that contains a variety of thoughts and emotions.
As a renaissance of interest in antiques and more sustainable materials sweeps the younger generations, the Scandinavian architecture is expected to gain momentum.
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Author Bio
Saili Sawantt – She is an Architect and Interior Designer by profession. Writing is what she treats as her passion. She has worked as an Architectural Writer, Editor, and Journalist for various design as well as digital portals, both national and international. Formerly she has also worked with Godrej Properties Limited (GPL) Design Studio, Mumbai, due to her keen interested in learning about Sustainability and Green buildings. Apart from this, she runs her blog ‘The Reader’s Express’ and is a practicing Architect & Interior Designer.
