Quick Guide to Minimalistic Style: Scandinavian Interior Design
Have you heard of Scandinavian interior design? It’s a style that’s similar to minimalism, and it’s taking the world of interior design by storm. You can use Scandinavian interior design in the bathroom, bedroom, living room or anywhere else in your home, and it’s fairly simple and affordable.
But what is Scandinavian interior design? What elements go into it, and what are some ways you can start incorporating it even if you aren’t ready to fully commit to the style? We’re here to break it down and help you start using it in your own home. Read on to learn more.
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What Is Scandinavian Style in Interior Design?
Scandinavian style in interior design has gained immense popularity worldwide for its minimalist, cozy and functional aesthetic. This design movement originated in Norway, Sweden and Denmark, emphasizing simplicity, sustainability and comfort. There are now a few different variations and “hybridizations”, such as Japandi style (among others).
Many people like the modern minimalistic vibe of Scandinavian style, but what is it really? What makes an interior design style Scandinavian anyway? What elements should you incorporate into your home if you want to capture that vibe? Let’s talk about it!
What Makes A Style Scandinavian?
Scandinavian style is deeply rooted in the cultural and geographical context of the Scandinavian region. The harsh winters and limited daylight hours in Scandinavian countries have influenced the design approach, focusing on warmth, light and coziness despite a fairly bare aesthetic. The style is characterized by a minimalist approach, using natural materials, and an emphasis on functionality. It's not just about aesthetics. It’s also about creating a sense of “hygge” (a Danish concept of coziness and contentment) in the home.
What Are The Key Elements Of Scandinavian Interior Design & Scandinavian Interior Design Characteristics?
So what sets Scandinavian interior design apart? What characteristics would you want to incorporate if you were looking to create a home (or even just a room) with charming and minimalistic Scandinavian vibes?
Scandinavian interior design is defined by its use of natural materials such as wood, wicker and wool, which add warmth and natural texture to a space. It’s a bit less nature-oriented than biophilic design, but nonetheless, there is still a nod to the natural world in the majority of Scandinavian-style homes.
A minimalist approach is also characteristic of this style. Homes often have clean lines, simple shapes and minimal ornamentation. This creates a sense of calm and serenity. It doesn’t mean that you can’t have decor items, but nothing that stands out too much or could be considered “gaudy” would have a place in a standard Scandinavian-style home.
Light-colored palettes featuring whites, creams and grays dominate Scandinavian design, helping to reflect light and make spaces feel larger. Functionality and practicality are also key considerations, with furniture and decor often serving multiple purposes. These two Scandinavian design characteristics make it excellent for people in small homes or apartments who aren’t working with much space.
Candles, fireplaces, and soft lighting are used to create warmth and coziness, while plants and natural elements bring a touch of the outdoors in. You can further boost comfort and unique texture through the use of throw blankets, rugs and pillows. Sustainability is also a core aspect of Scandinavian design, with eco-friendly materials and reduced waste being key priorities (making it popular during the current push toward greener homes). The style often features a mix of modern and vintage pieces.
What Is The Difference Between Scandinavian And Nordic Style?
While often used interchangeably, Scandinavian and Nordic design are still different interior design styles. Scandinavian style refers specifically to the design aesthetic of Norway, Sweden and Denmark. Nordic style, on the other hand, encompasses a broader geographical area, including Finland, Iceland and the Baltic countries.
Nordic style often incorporates more bold colors, geometric patterns, and industrial materials, whereas Scandinavian style tends to stick to a more minimalist and natural approach. Think of Nordic style as a broader umbrella term that includes Scandinavian design, but also allows for more variation and experimentation.
This isn’t to say that Scandinavian interior design is inflexible, just that too many changes may make it more Nordic in nature. It can be fun to research both styles and pick elements that appeal to you so you can create your own ideal home. If Scandinavian interior design feels too plain or sterile, Nordic interior design may suit you better.
Scandinavian Interior Design Ideas
1. Set Up a Cozy Reading Alcove
When it comes to Scandinavian interior design for the living room, the name of the game is “cozy.” Create a cozy reading alcove with a plush armchair, a floor lamp and a side table made of natural wood. Add some soft throw blankets and pillows in muted colors to make the space feel inviting and relaxing. Set up a big bookcase within arm’s reach so you have somewhere excellent to read. Bonus points if it’s near a window.
2. Add a Natural Rug
Place a natural-looking rug in front of your sofa or armchair to add warmth and texture to your space. Sheepskin, faux sheepskin or any soft natural fibers work well for this. The soft, plush pile of the rug will create a cozy and inviting atmosphere, perfect for snuggling up with a good book or enjoying a warm cup of coffee. Choose a rug in a neutral color, such as white or beige, to add a touch of Scandinavian charm to your space.
3. Incorporate Woven Baskets
Woven baskets are fantastic for Scandinavian interior design for the bedroom or living room. Use woven baskets to store books, magazines, or other knick-knacks in your home. The natural texture of the woven baskets will add much-needed texture to your room and lend it a rustic character. Select baskets made from natural materials, such as wicker or rattan, to add a touch of Scandinavian charm to your space.
4. Hang a Natural Fiber Tapestry
A natural fiber tapestry will add texture and visual interest to your space without any permanent changes. This makes it a great option for Scandinavian interior design for living rooms in apartments. The fabric will add a layer of coziness and comfort to the room and the subtle patterns and textures of the tapestry will add depth to your space. Look for tapestries with simple, geometric patterns or natural motifs to create a cohesive and harmonious look.
5. Add a Wooden Candle Holder
Place a wooden candle holder on your coffee table or side table to add warmth and ambiance to your space. The natural texture of the wood will offset the sterile look of man-made minimalist elements and provide a functional space for soft lighting. This is an easy and affordable way to incorporate a small element of Scandinavian interior design into your bedroom, living room, or even kitchen.
6. Incorporate Soft Lighting
Speaking of candles, soft lighting is ideal for Scandinavian interior design in the bathroom, bedroom, and throughout the home. Use table lamps or floor lamps with soft shades to create a warm and inviting atmosphere in your space. The soft glow of the lighting will create a sense of relaxation and calm. Look for lamps with simple, minimalist designs to create a cohesive and harmonious look. You can also use light bulbs with adjustable colors and brightness levels.
7. Incorporate Natural Elements
Bring the outdoors in by incorporating natural elements, such as branches or rocks, into your decor. The organic shapes and forms will add visual interest and natural charm to your space. Natural elements that reflect the Scandinavian love of nature and the outdoors. For Scandinavian interior design in the living room or kitchen, a clear vase with clean branches and stones is often enough.
8. Opt for Minimalist Window Treatments
Use minimalist window treatments to let in natural light. According to the National Institute of Health, there is strong evidence to suggest that natural light is good for physical and mental well-being. Let the sun in! The simple window treatments will create a calming atmosphere and help you maintain your privacy without blocking light.
9. Add a Wooden Headboard
What about your bedroom interior design? While you’re incorporating natural elements, choose a wooden headboard, such as a reclaimed wood or painted wood headboard, to add a touch of Scandinavian charm to your bedroom. The texture of the wood will create a more “natural” feeling space and the simple design of the headboard will add a touch of minimalist elegance to your bedroom. This is a great way to incorporate Scandinavian interior design in the bedroom.
10. Incorporate Vintage Scandinavian Decor
Incorporate vintage Scandinavian decor, such as antique furniture or vintage textiles, into your space to add some history and charm. The vintage pieces will evoke a sense of nostalgia and warmth, while their natural texture and beauty will add depth and visual interest to your space. Look for vintage pieces that reflect the Scandinavian love of simplicity and minimalism.
11. Add a Natural Fiber Throw Blanket
Select a natural fiber throw blanket to add warmth and style to your space. The natural fibers will add both literal and visual warmth and coziness to a living room or bedroom. The blanket will also add more texture and a “lived-in” look that some minimalist homes lack. Look for throw blankets in natural colors, such as beige or gray, to add a sprinkle of Scandinavian charm to your space.
12. Use Simple, Clean-Lined Furniture
When it comes to Scandinavian interior design for furniture, simple and clean lines are the way to go. The simple design of your furniture will create a sense of elegance and sophistication. Look for furniture made of natural materials, such as wood or leather. Opt for neutral tones.
13. Incorporate Greenery
Bring the outdoors in by incorporating greenery, such as plants or an herb garden, into your space. The natural beauty of the greenery will create a sense of freshness and vitality in your home. Having plants inside makes the home feel more alive, even during the winter months, and taking care of those plants can be good for your mental health. Select plants that are easy to care for and reflect the Scandinavian appreciation for nature and the outdoors.
14. Choose a Monochromatic Color Scheme
Coming up with interior design styles for homes that aren’t “too flashy” can be tough. Choose a monochromatic color scheme, such as different shades of white or gray, to create a cohesive and harmonious look in your space that looks stylish without being over-the-top. The simple color scheme will create a sense of calm and serenity that’s so prevalent in Scandinavian interior design, extending from the living room to the bedroom and throughout the home. Look for colors that reflect the Scandinavian love of simplicity and minimalism.
15. Add a Scandinavian-Inspired Pattern
Incorporate a Scandinavian-inspired pattern, such as a geometric shape or Nordic print (yes, even if you’re not aiming for Nordic interior design), into your decor through throw pillows, paintings, blankets or rugs. The pattern will add visual interest and create a sense of energy and movement in your space. Choose patterns that reflect the Scandinavian love of simplicity and minimalism. Because Scandinavian interior design is so minimal, the print may end up being a statement piece, so choose carefully.
16. Use Minimalist Decor
Use minimalist decor, such as simple vases or minimalist sculptures, to add personality and visual interest to your space without overwhelming it. A minimalist space can still have decor items! You just have to be more selective. Look for decor that reflects the Scandinavian love of simplicity and minimalism.
17. Use Reclaimed Wood
Use reclaimed wood, such as reclaimed wood furniture or reclaimed wood wall art, to add a touch of history and charm to your space. The natural texture and beauty of the reclaimed wood will create a sense of warmth and coziness, while the organic shapes and forms will add visual interest to your space.
18. Add Wooden Wall Art
On the topic of decor items, don’t forget wall art. Many minimalist wall art pieces people incorporate into Scandinavian interior design are simple prints, but there are other options if you want to mix it up. Wooden wall art, such as driftwood or wooden panels, can add a touch of Scandinavian charm to your space. The natural texture of the wood will make your home feel more rustic and lived-in without sacrificing elegance.
19. Use Soft, Muted Colors
Use soft and muted neutral colors, such as whites, creams and grays, to create a calm and serene atmosphere in your space. These are classic minimalist colors and they will create a soothing space with “clean” vibes that are common in Scandinavian interior design.
20. Incorporate Simple Shapes
Incorporate simple shapes into your decor to add visual interest without overwhelming the rooms. Look for shapes that reflect the Scandinavian love of simplicity and minimalism. Triangles, rectangles, squares and circles can be used in combination or alone to add some texture to a space.
21. Consider Vintage Scandinavian Textiles
Incorporate vintage Scandinavian textiles, such as vintage wool blankets or linen tablecloths, into your space to add a touch of Scandinavian history and charm. You may be able to find these textiles at thrift or vintage stores, or you may find replicas. These can add some fantastic texture to otherwise minimal Scandinavian interior design.
22. Have One Single Pop of Color
Because Scandinavian interior design is so minimalist and monochromatic, it can leave spaces feeling somewhat dull. Add a single pop of color in the form of a statement piece (or a few smaller pops of color as accessories) to brighten the space without sacrificing the main design principles. One brightly colored decor item can go a long way, and it will allow you to draw peoples’ eyes to a specific point in the room.
How do you feel about Scandinavian interior design? Consider incorporating some of these ideas to add a new and interesting design style to your space. Whether you go full-Scandinavian or you simply want to add a few elements of this minimalist style here and there, it can be fun to change up your space!
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