Scandinavian design has been a staple of interior decorating for almost a century. It emerged in the 1930s, growing in international popularity throughout the ’50s, and has stood the test of time since. The style is all about minimalistic, aesthetically pleasing spaces that use natural materials, clean lines, bright light and neutral colors.
hallmarks of scandi style
Two of the core tenets of Scandinavian design are hygge and lagom. Hygge is about finding pleasure in simple things, while lagom can be translated as “not too much, not too little” and is all about striking balance. The result is neutral minimalist spaces that still have a warm, cozy feeling.
- Natural textures
- Minimalism
- Neutral color palette
- Clean lines
- Cozy textiles
- Natural light
- Quality craftsmanship
- Balance
how to introduce it in your home
The simplicity of Scandi design means it’s extremely versatile. Elements of it can work in almost any home, no matter what your personal style is. The goal is to create something that is cozy yet practical.
- Use decor as storage. If you find you struggle to maintain a minimalist look, use containers made from natural materials to hold things while giving your space a clutter-free feeling.
- Choose furniture with clean, simple lines. Pieces that are produced sustainably from natural material also are in line with the Scandinavian approach to decor.
- Paint your walls an off-white color. This will not only give a starting point for your neutral color palette, but also help reflect light throughout the space.
- Bring plants and greenery into your home. This brings a sense of outdoor living into interior spaces.
- Add accents like blankets and pillows. Textured pieces such as wool and sheepskin throws and blankets add warmth and coziness. This can also be a way to bring in some color to your neutral palette, such as pale pinks, purples, blues and greens.
- Go with natural hardwood or white flooring. This can make a space feel both bigger and brighter.