Although the Scandinavian design has been around since the 1950s, it has been gaining momentum lately. Many interior designers have embraced the minimalism, functionality, and simplicity that is represented in Scandinavian design, so why shouldn’t you do the same? On top of that, natural materials, shapes, and elements are omnipresent in Scandinavian decor.
If you think beauty is in simplicity, you should definitely opt for Scandinavian design. So, if you are interested in redecorating to embody the sense of simplicity and practicality, take a look at these tips on how to achieve that goal without losing the cozy feeling that everyone craves for.
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What is Scandinavian Decor?
Scandinavian interior design represents the balance between minimalism and comfort as it uses a mixture of soft hues and textures to create a modern living space with sleek lines. This style shaped the interior design in the 20th century with its minimalistic elements that are functional, cozy, and warm at the same time.
Scandinavian Colors
Keeping in mind that Scandinavian design is quite minimal, the color scheme follows suit. Typical choices are neutral and muted colors, such as white, grey, beige, black, ivory, sage, and variations on those colors. To add a sense of warmth and nature, add a touch of greens and blues, such as olive and fuschia.
These colors will create a soothing and clean environment that resembles the winter scenery and skies of Nordic countries.
Hygge
You might be unfamiliar with the word hygge as its origins come from Norway and Denmark. Since the word is not translatable to English, we’ll try to bring its meaning closer to you. Hygge describes a moment or feeling, regardless of the location and the company, of charming, special, cozy, and overall contentment.
This is what sets the Scandinavian style apart from other design styles. The goal is to create an environment that breathes feelings of coziness and contentment, meaning a lot of Scandinavian homes aspire to achieve the hygge feeling.
Scandinavian Living Room Decor
You can do plenty of things to bring to life that Scandinavian feeling everyone is raving about. To complete your living room’s decoration process, follow these simple tips:
- Opt for bare minimal floor and window covers and treatments.
- Encourage social interaction with a casual layout. Place all the furniture (sofa, chairs, coffee table) close to each other but allow enough circulation space.
- Incorporate a floor lamp, throw pillows, a rug, or a pendant light as they are key to Scandinavian decor.
- Introduce blue or green accents to the room as they will stand out. Think in terms of a monochromatic gallery wall, ceramics, or another decor.
- Choose practical storage solutions such as a craft coffee table with a hidden storage compartment.
- Don’t forget the greenery to add a bit of life to the space.
Scandinavian Bedroom Decor
Scandinavian bedrooms typically inspire tranquility, breeziness, and coziness. To create such a feeling, you only need to follow a few simple steps. Take a look:
- Smaller light fixtures are the perfect choices for a bedroom. Wall-hung lights above your nightstands are the most Scandinavian-like choice.
- Avoid fussy nightstands. Simple stool-like nightstands or rectangular tables are the best choices as you will avoid any unnecessary clutter.
- If you can, invest in high-quality bedding. Think about adding decorative, comfy, fluffy pillows and wool throws to create a cozy nook for you and your loved ones.
- Wall decor is especially important in Scandinavian design but keep it minimal. Opt for one gallery wall or stick with one big abstract piece above the bed.
Form and Functionality
Everything related to Scandinavian design should be functional and in a specific form. To be more specific, clean lines are key to Scandinavian design. This relates to sofas, tables, chairs, and other furniture in the house. Elegant lines with rounded edges and smooth surfaces breathe Scandinavian decor. The floors should be kept clean and elegant, so opt for rigid core vinyl flooring for a timeless look in neutral colors.
Furthermore, functionality and innovativeness are crucial parts of Scandinavian design, so you should think about how to apply such elements to your living space. Multifunctional shelves and practical storage solutions are just two examples. All the more, you will add an interesting visual aspect to the space.
With this advice, you should be able to create a living space that resembles a Scandinavian style of life in a few straightforward steps. Think simplicity, functionality, and beauty, and you’re half-way there.