Scandinavian Design: Naturally Light and Airy

Scandinavian style is inspired and influenced by nature. It prioritizes simplicity and functionality without sacrificing beauty. Scandinavian spaces are always light and airy as well as clean and cozy. The style also seeks to improve everyday life (through it’s focus on functionality), and is all about creating a balance. There is a Swedish word that sums up the style perfectly: Lagom. It means not too little, not too much.

ORIGINS

Scandinavian style emerged in the 1930’s and grew in popularity in the 50’s. In the time between the two world wars, designers in Europe had a desire for a more modern, innovative design style that embraced new industrial technologies and the mass production that came with it. As the name states it was first seen in Scandinavian countries like Norway, Sweden and Denmark but has made it’s way to America in a big way.

COLOR & TEXTURE

Almost everything in the Scandinavian style is light; from color palettes to wood finishes, as well as furniture and decor. Monochromatic schemes are often seen, and colors like white, cream, grey and beige are often used as the base of the color palette, with light blue, green, pink and yellow mixed in. Keep things warm and bright with a few black accents mixed in.

Here is an example of a Scandinavian color palette:

Organic materials such as sheepskin, wool, and mohair are popular choices to warm and cozy up the space and highlight the Scandinavian and Nordic countries relationship with and respect for nature. Leather, linen and glass also have their place and can be used as contrast pieces to create visual interest.

FURNITURE & DECOR

Furniture is meant to be functional and often serves as storage in addition to it’s main use. Clutter has no place in Scandinavian design, and these pieces are meant to reflect that. Light woods such as birch, ash and white oak are popular choices; you wont see much dark furniture in Scandinavian spaces.

Lighting is also a key element. Nordic countries get only about 7 hours of daylight during the winter, which is one reason why they focus on making their indoor spaces feel as light and cozy as possible. Layering decor pieces like rugs, throw pillows and blankets helps to make the space feel warm and comfortable.

KITCHEN & BATH Scandinavian kitchen and bath design is just as light and airy as the rest of the style. Keep finishes light and neutral, and bring in pops of black and color in decor items such as lighting, rugs and chairs. There are plenty of finish and fixture options on the market that will fit in beautifully.

Here are some examples of Scandinavian design in kitchens and bathrooms.

Scandinavian design is and will be a favorite for many years to come. It evokes feelings of happiness and wellbeing, prioritizes function over ornament and is incredibly aesthetically pleasing. It mixes well with other design styles such as transitional, contemporary and even farmhouse. All of these styles put function and clean lines over frill and ornament, which is one reason they blend so well. They also have similar color palettes full of light, warm and toned down colors with pops of bold and/or bright accents. Keep these guidelines in mind and you’ll create a truly happy place!