Scandinavian design is known for its minimalist approach, natural beauty, and functionality combined with elegance. Its blend of clean lines, soft textures, and an emphasis on practicality create spaces that feel both warm and inviting. Whether you’re redecorating a single room or transforming your entire home, this guide will help you find out more about the effortless style of Scandinavian interiors.
At the Heart of Scandinavian Design
The foundations of Scandinavian design are simplicity, functionality, and a connection to nature. Take a look at these key elements:
- Minimalism: Scandinavian interiors are known for their pared-back aesthetic. However, this minimalism isn’t cold or stark; it’s balanced with warmth and comfort. Instead of filling a room with decorative pieces, Scandinavian design focuses on creating space and allowing every piece of furniture to serve a purpose.
- Functionality: In homes with a Scandinavian aesthetic, functionality is key. Furniture is designed to be beautiful and practical, making spaces not just aesthetically pleasing but also comfortable and liveable. Multi-functional furniture, such as storage benches or tables with hidden compartments, fits perfectly within this design ethos.
- Natural Materials: Wood, leather, wool, and stone are key materials in Scandinavian interiors. These natural elements create a warm, organic atmosphere that contrasts beautifully with the clean lines and crisp finishes.
Form Meets Function
Scandinavian furniture is as much about beauty as it is about practicality. The clean, simple lines of our Salters Oak Collection are the perfect example of furniture that celebrates the beauty of solid oak and simplicity in design, creating beautiful Scandinavian-inspired furniture pieces.
Look for streamlined silhouettes with clean lines and simple forms which help to create a sense of openness and airiness. Scandinavian furniture is also commonly made from natural materials like wood. These materials not only provide durability but also enhance the natural, organic feel of the space.
Keep it Light and Airy
One of the most defining features of Scandinavian design is its signature colour palette. The long, dark winters in Nordic countries influenced the need for bright, light spaces, and the colour choices reflect this!
Scandinavian interiors often use a palette of whites, greys, and other neutral tones to reflect as much light as possible. White walls, in particular, are a hallmark of this style, helping to keep spaces bright even in the darker months. However, don’t forget some subtle pops of colour to add personality. Soft pastels like blush pinks, mint greens, and muted blues work beautifully, as do darker accents in deep greens, blues, or black, which provide depth and contrast.
Lighting as a Necessity
Scandinavian interiors often use several light sources to create a cosy, warm feel. Pendant lights, floor lamps, and table lamps are key features. Choose simple yet stylish designs, usually in stone, wood, or neutral colours. Let as much natural light in as possible by keeping window coverings simple. Sheer curtains or light blinds can help soften the light without blocking it, creating a bright and open space.
Add Warmth and Comfort
Scandinavian interiors may be minimalist in design, but they never feel cold or bare, thanks to natural textures and soft furnishings that add warmth and depth. Add comfort with cushions in natural fabrics. As for patterns, they’re typically subtle, like simple stripes or geometric designs, to keep the minimalist aesthetic.
Plants as an Essential
