Scandinavia is often blanketed in the crisp clean white of snow and its interiors intentionally reflect this effect, seeking to capture a sense of lasting light for the long dark winter months.
By keeping to minimalist colours and soft tones, the Nordic interior is both modern and minimalist; stylish in its simplicity and enhanced by a sense of space and light that bright white walls create.
Furniture is also neutral in colour, a device that turns a room almost into a blank canvas, where signature items such as collector’s art or stand-alone furniture can really shine.
Sticking to keeping things simple, Scandi design doesn’t require a great deal of flourishes or intricate detailing. Keeping your walls bare and furniture clean-lined will achieve a minimalist style more in keeping with Nordic thinking.
Instead of cluttering up your wall with large, superstore bought artwork, why not keep it to a single feature piece, a simple work of art that captures the attention without overwhelming the senses?
Conscientious purchasing and purposeful design is a must for the Scandinavian home. By slowing down and really considering “Do I need this?” and “Will it be both functional and stylish?” will help you create a home full of purpose and simplicity.
Storage as statement piece is a soaring trend, whereby a simple piece of practical furniture like a hanging rail can become a design focal point in a room. Instead of investing in clutter to decorate a room, consider how you can take a functioning aspect of the home and make it beautiful.
Integral to the Scandinavian philosophy and lifestyle is a large, soft, woollen blanket and thick comfy socks. Keeping things calm and cosy is a vital aspect of Nordic design. Sheepskin rugs and large pillows by the fire, as well as warm rustic wooden furniture, create the atmosphere of a luxury cabin in your own front room.
The bedroom should be a tech-free sanctuary, emphasising comfort and relaxation for the best night’s sleep. Keep a large, soft grey or charcoal black blanket on a bed with simple white bedding, a warming lamp on a worn wooden bedside table and breathe a deep sigh of relaxation.
A paper lantern, an exposed industrial style bulb, golden brass hanging lamps sharp against the white walls. Lights offer a miasma of possibilities in Scandi culture and provide ample opportunity for expression.
Whether you require a standing lamp for dramatic effect or a soft bedside lamp for relaxing before sleep, the Scandinavian design can provide an eloquent solution with soft edges, neutral tones and modern functionality.
Natural wooden features can relax a room, create a sense of the natural world taking up residence in your home. Whether it’s on your walls, on the floor or used as the material for cupboards, wood is a special substance in Nordic interiors. Usually, a light wood such as beech, ash or pine, this feature keeps the home feeling light and natural.
Practically every Scandinavian home will bring a little bit of nature within its four walls. Plants such as philodendron, orchids, golden pothos and rubber plants provide a sense of wellbeing as well as increased humidity and purified air- which comes in handy during the cold northern winter.
Choosing plants that are low maintenance and full of that happy green glow will light up your home and provide a pocket of Scandinavian peace.