Scandinavian style marries modern design and natural elements to create a space that feels decidedly Nordic. Embrace this cozy take on minimalist design and learn how to create your own Scandinavian space.
If you love nature, modern design, and an uncluttered space, then you'll love Scandinavian style. A Scandinavian design echoes the influence of modern style and ties in natural elements to convey the luxurious feel of an Icelandic getaway. This take on minimalist style originated in Nordic countries like Norway, Denmark, and Sweden in the 1930s, but didn't catch on in the U.S. until the 1950s. Today's Scandinavian interior design uses neutral tones, wood, modern furniture, and bold metal accents to create a striking look that is more popular than ever.
A Scandinavian palette is soft and reserved. Neutral shades amplify the effect of natural light, brightening your space without drawing too much attention. If you crave a more colorful environment, then stick with soft or pastel blues, tans, and pinks that let the spotlight fall on your furniture and decor.
Incorporating wood furniture wherever possible is one of the best ways to bring the outdoors in. Light woods like maple, pine, oak, and teak really show off the natural wood grain and work well with a Scandinavian palette. Wooden sofa legs, sitting chairs, and tables are great ways to incorporate this must-have element.
Using faux fur accents is a perfect way to add some coziness to your space. Along with comfort, faux fur throw pillows and area rugs bring texture and warmth into an otherwise clean and minimalist environment.
The shine of new copper can be a bright, eye-catching accent in an otherwise neutral room. Lighting fixtures and small decor items like vases or kettles can subtly introduce this brassy metal into your design scheme. Real copper gains a rustic-looking patina over time, which simply lends a more classic feel to the Nordic ambiance.
Because Scandinavian design is a close relative of Modern design, Modern art is a welcome wall decoration. Black and white photography, ink drawings, and charcoal works are a good place to start. Monochromatic pieces really stand out in a Scandinavian space. If you crave color, make sure to match the artwork to the accent color of the room.
A Scandinavian living room should appear clean and cozy. The "clean" comes from polished wood furniture, the design's use of straight lines, and minimal home decor. The "cozy" comes from area rugs, throw pillows, and a comfortable sofa. If your desire is a simple space that feels homey without being cluttered or busy, then a Scandinavian living room is your happy place.
Enjoy a main room that feels spacious enough for entertaining guests and comfortable enough for a lazy afternoon nap.
Scandinavian sofas share many qualities with Mid-Century Modern furniture. You'll want a low-profile sofa that's slim but comfortable. Wooden angled legs and rectangular arms are also common to this style. Your Scandinavian sofa shouldn't draw too much attention, but feel free to freshen it up with some fun throw pillows to add more comfort and texture.
Making sure you have the right style of area rug is vital to nailing that Scandinavian feel. Capture the wilderness look with a faux fur or synthetic rawhide rug. Or, substitute a shag rug that still provides plenty of comfort and texture to your living room. A plush area rug also serves to soften the surrounding wood elements, bringing balance to the room.
If you need additional seating in your living room, then Scandinavian chairs are a functional and stylish solution. Look for chairs made primarily of light-colored wood to stay consistent with the Nordic theme. Curved backs and tapered legs also contribute to this signature design. These chairs will make a stylish statement in any room.
Having a ladder that doesn't lead anywhere might seem strange at first, but a decorative ladder is an unmistakably unique piece of Scandinavian decor. Displaying your ladder in a corner keeps it away from foot traffic, while leaning it against the wall next to your sofa turns it into a great storage rack for small throw blankets. No matter how you use it, a Scandinavian ladder will take your living room style to the next level.
A Scandinavian dining room continues the simple and clean theme established in the home with minimalist decor, a wooden table and chairs, and sleek lighting.
Your dining room should feel open and welcoming, a comfortable place where conversation flows as freely as the food and drink. A Scandinavian dining room continues the simple and clean theme established in the home with minimalist decor, a wooden table and chairs, and sleek lighting. By displaying small green plants and nature-themed artwork, you can include natural elements in your dining space. Craft your own relaxing Scandinavian dining room with these pieces.
Scandinavian style favors pendant lighting, a stylish modern alternative to chandeliers. This bold but simple lighting style provides bright, localized illumination to highlight your dining room table and decor. Metallic pendant lights add an especially Nordic touch. Install a copper pendant light to really set off your dining room.
A simple wood dining table is the perfect Scandinavian centerpiece. Light-colored wood like pine or oak really shines and provides an attractive surface for eating, socializing, and displaying pieces of decor. Look for a rectangular or square table with defined lines and enough space for your dinner guests.
Other rooms in a home may get more attention when it comes to wall decor, but the dining room deserves some love, too. Black and white art is a staple of Scandinavian style and can exist as anything from modern prints to ink drawings. Art is a matter of personal taste and style — buy art you love to add a personal touch to your dining room wall decor.
Scandinavian dining chairs can come in all shapes and sizes, but some have the iconic look you'll want to make your own. Wooden wishbone-style chairs have a curved back, which lends to the visually-pleasing design that is unique to Scandinavian style. Wooden, woven, and leather seats are all possibilities, but stick with black, white, or natural wood chairs to be consistent with the rest of your decor.
A Scandinavian bedroom is a relaxing and tranquil retreat from the pressures of everyday life. Soothing neutral tones, simple and comfortable furniture, and a minimal approach to bedroom decor blend together to create a refreshing look and feel. Keep things light and fun with this Scandinavian take on the most personal space in your home.
A Scandinavian bedroom is a relaxing and tranquil retreat from the pressures of everyday life.
The best Scandinavian bed is one that doesn't draw too much attention. A low-profile platform bed is a good place to start, but an upholstered frame really captures the casual class of Scandinavian style. Top off your bed with some luxurious white or grey down bedding to create a sleep nest you'll never want to escape.
Bookend your bed with Scandinavian nightstands to add convenient storage space for bedside necessities. Your nightstand is another opportunity to incorporate light-colored, natural wood furniture into your setup. Keep it to a simple one or two drawers to stay in the minimal vibe.
Light up your room with Scandinavian lamps that contribute to your overall design. Arc floor lamps and task floor lamps are perfect for the bedroom, and arc and task table lamps bring Nordic appeal to nightstands and desks. If you prefer a more permanent lighting solution for your bedroom, hanging pendant lights can be a stylish alternative to lamps.
As you look for appropriate Scandinavian bedding, keep in mind that neutrals are king. Color is great too, but opt for muted rather than vibrant. Pastel colors work well in a Scandinavian bedroom, or you can stick with white or grey for a classic, clean look. Fluffy comforters and duvets increase the comfort and appeal of your bedroom, and there are plenty down or down-alternative options that can work for you.
