Did you know that some parts of Scandinavian countries are enveloped in 20 hours of darkness a day during the winters?
Imagine living like that, enclosed in darkness and midnight light, where sunlight is such a rare luxury. So you adapt and soak your house with every bit of brightness you get. And that’s how Scandinavian interior design came about!
Now you retrace and remember all the celebrity home tours and Pinterest feeds featuring rooms bathed in light, neutral tones, uncluttered yet cosy and you wonder what made these homes so effortlessly calming without realising you were looking at Scandinavian interior design all along!
Cosy yet minimalist, warm yet bright, a design philosophy that’s high on practicality. If you want to learn more about this Nordic style and how it found its way to global homes, continue reading this blog.
What Is Scandinavian Interior Design And Why Is It Favoured Widely?
Scandinavian interior design is one of the most recognised and beloved interior designs often embodying functionality, simplicity and deep connection to nature.
It follows the ideology of ‘less is more’, similar to its counterpart, Japanese interior design. It incorporates a lot of natural light, natural materials such as wood and textiles, clean lines, and muted colours, paving the way for minimalist and comforting spaces.
For some while now, Scandi design remains a popular choice due to its resonation with modern minimalism where simplicity is a must. Besides this, this design arose in smaller houses which makes it an ideal design choice for smaller urban spaces.
Did you know? Scandinavian design became popular right after WWII through touring exhibitions held in the USA and Canada to showcase modernist principles.
A Brief Dive Into The History And Origin Of Scandinavian Interior Design
Originating in the 20th century, it first emerged in Scandinavian countries such as Denmark, Sweden and Norway. It also originates in Finland and Iceland. Winters in the north of these regions were tough and Scandinavians relied on elements that nature offered them to survive. These natural materials helped them brighten their interiors and over time, this simplicity and necessity turned into a design philosophy.
This approach then evolved into a global movement by the Golden Age of design, championed by designers Alvar Aalto and Arne Jacobsen.
Did you know? Minimalist interior design in America was born out of the aesthetic of owning less, however, Scandinavian design was born out of the scarcity of materials.
Key Features Of Scandinavian Interior Design
Scandinavian interior design is driven by its core principles that play a hand in its appeal. These features are a constant staple in Scandinavian homes:-
1. Minimalism
Scandinavians have mastered the art of minimalism. They avoid any unnecessary decoration and only have useful storage solutions. Additionally, their designs are not over-the-top but rather clean and straightforward.
2. Muted Colours
Muted colours are a nod to modern minimalists who love their spaces light and airy. Due to long Scandinavian winters, light colours dominated interiors to maximise the light any way possible.
3. Natural Materials
Natural materials are the holy grail for Scandinavians, making it a staple in their design. Materials like wood, leather or wool brought warmth during winters while giving the house an organic look.
4. Functional Design
Nordic’s were a no-nonsense people who wouldn’t choose a space or an item without obtaining its practicality first. They believed in sustainable living where every design follows functionality may it be a table doubling as a storage or a chair serving as ladder.
5. Hygge
Stemming from Danish vocabulary, Hygge is a philosophy that emphasises creating an atmosphere of comfort, happiness, and well-being. You can achieve this feeling of togetherness by placing warm lighting around, laying soft textures and comfortable furniture.
Did you know? Scandinavian countries are known for their top rankings in high happiness. No wonder the rest of the world is so drawn to their way of living!
A Guide To Creating Functional & Minimalist Interiors With Nordic Design
Do you want to create a Scandinavian space that promotes simplicity and nurtures well-being? This guide might help you achieve it:-
1. Welcome Hygge in Your Abode
Let’s further understand the fascinating concept of Hygge and what makes people draw towards it. As stated earlier, Hygge is not just another trend but rather a philosophy. It’s about putting on your lampshade, lighting your favourite candle and bundling up inside your cozy blanket; it’s about creating a comforting sanctuary for you.
2. Let There Be Light
Scandinavians nail the art of illuminating their homes. Think of ceiling to floor windows, sheer curtains and open windows to let natural light fill in the room, facilitating a warm and inviting atmosphere. You can use multiple light sources such as lamps or candles to amplify brightness.
3. Accentuating With Nature & Sustainability
Nothing screams Scandinavian interior design more than natural materials. Whether it’s an oak coffee table or a leather armchair, each piece of decor and furniture is brought from nature and is made to sustain. Incorporate natural materials in your living space from furniture, bedding and upholstery.
Did you know? The iconic and highly practical Tripp Trapp chair is designed by a Scandinavian designer which is still useful 54 years after it was designed!
4. Keeping it Neutral with Colour Palette & Patterns
Now that you know neutral colours dominate Scandinavian interiors, it’s easy to see why this makes it so timeless. Whites, beiges, muted greens and other earthy tones are some of the best Scandi colours to give a soft backdrop. You can make your space more interesting with textures such as embroidery.
Did you know? IKEA, a Swedish company, made Scandinavian interior design accessible to everyone.
Your Scandinavian-Inspired Home Starts Here!
Scandinavian interior design is not just another trend to try and tick off the checklist, is it however a simple and practical way of living. The Scandinavians do not deem this design as a sign of luxury or wealth but rather just a way of living born out of necessity.
Whether you want a minimalist living room or a bedroom, understanding key features and incorporating them intentionally, you too can create a Scandinavian and minimalist living space. So, browse Magicdecor’s minimalist wallpapers and create your sanctuary.
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