6 Tips to Nail Scandinavian Interior Design
With its clean lines, muted palette and emphasis on a clutter-free environment, Scandinavian interior design has remained a firm favourite in the design world over the last decade.
There are a few simple tips and tricks you can follow to help you achieve the look in your own home, and to save you the search we’ve even thrown in a few of our fave high-street shoppable pieces, too! (You can thank us later.)
So, let’s get into it…
What is Scandinavian Interior Design?
Scandinavian interior design first emerged in the 20th century and remains one of the most popular interior design styles today.
The style is simple and minimal with a focus on functional and accesible design combined with quality craftsmanship. At its core, Scandinavian design is centred around the idea of simple yet impactful ways of living to create a calming and welcoming environment.
1. Neutrals
Scandinavian winters are long and dark. That’s why you’ll see a common theme of bright whites and neutral accents that catch the light in Scandinavian design - making the room feel brighter and more homely.
To nail the Scandinavian interior aesthetic, try incorporating a neutral colour palette with varying shades of white, cream, browns and smaller accents of black.
2. Exposed Floors
Exposed floors are a huge design feature in Scandinavian homes.
Often, you’ll see wooden planks used throughout the majority of the home, paired with cosy or textured rugs in the living or bedroom areas to make it feel more cosy and add some warmth.
Stick to a light-to-mid stain on your natural floorboards - too dark and you’ll leave your space looking a little more Mid-Century Modern than Scandinavian!
3. Minimalism
Scandinavians take pride in having incredibly clean, minimal and clutter-free rooms. That’s not to say that their homes aren’t cosy - in fact, they’re quite the opposite!
By having a de-clutter of your space, you’re able to clear your mind and focus on the things that you actually need, or bring you joy, in your home. Allowing you to actually enjoy your space and relax!
4. Natural Light
Natural light is central to this design style. In Scandinavian design, it is not uncommon to leave windows uncovered - with usually no blinds or curtains to maximise natural light. If you’re wanting a little more privacy, however, a voile or semi-transparent curtain that doesn’t block light will do the trick.
With a neutral palette, natural light will be your best friend to help bounce light around the room and create a sense of movement. Here is where your neutral colour choices can really come to life!
5. Woods
With a huge focus on craftsmanship, organic materials and clean lines, wooden details go hand in hand with this design style.
As we touched on earlier, exposed wood floors look beautiful paired with a bright white colour palette, and will also add character to your property. If you don’t have the budget to stretch to switching your existing floor, look to solid furniture pieces in light oak finishes instead to achieve the look.
6. Clean Lines
Touching back on the minimalistic way of living in Scandinavian design, clean lines are another way to help you achieve a stress and clutter-free environment. Look to clean, straight lines or geometric shapes to define your space. This applies to everything from your larger furniture pieces, down to the artwork on your walls. Combining a variety of shapes with clean lines can be the perfect final touch to complete your Scandinavian inspired project.
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Get in touch with our interior design team today to see how we can help you achieve the space of your dreams!