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7 Key Principles of Scandinavian Interior Design, 2024 Guides

cozy and warmth Scandinavian interior design with fireplace and wood flooring and accessories
Photo by Clay Banks | Unsplash

The history of Scandinavian interior design

The Scandinavian design was first raised in 1914 as a new Danish style, and it was extended from the 1930s to the 1970s by Elvar Alto, Arne Jacobson, Borge Mogensen, Hans J. Wegner, and Maija Isola. All of them helped to create the “golden age of Scandinavian design” and, their principles still inspired new designers. Functionality, simplicity, and reliability have become an integral part of this style.

modern chair design, Scandinavian interior design exhibition in Brooklyn museum
Scandinavian design Brooklyn museum exhibition, 1954

Before second world war, there was hard competition between modernism and traditions. People didn’t demand modern furniture, which reminded them cold hospitals or office spaces. In the early 1950s, the design styles had been started to change. Designers created a new wave, known as the democratic wave, which was a combination of modernist ideals with the beauty of craft hands. As a result, the style became increasingly popular during the 1950s-1970s and gained international attention in the Western world.

The democratic wave emphasized making high-quality designs in mass production to keep them accessible and affordable to everyone, [IKEA product model]. Today, the Scandinavian style is one of the most popular designs and the best choice for those who want peaceful and timeless design in their space.

What is the Scandinavian interior design?

The Scandinavian design started in Northern European countries, as the whole region experienc harsh, long, and dark winters. The style focuses on creating a warm, cozy, and inviting atmosphere in home decor.

The main characteristics of Scandinavian style are simplicity and functionality; their combination with beauty to create objects and designs, free from unnecessary and clutter. Some people summarize the Scandinavian style with modern, clean-line furniture, white walls, and natural elements. However, applying this style in practice requaied attention to the more details.

Ahead, there will be explain some main principles commonly seen in Scandinavian interior design.

1. Colors in Scandinavian Design

The primary and most common color in Scandinavian style is warm white. Complete the bright backhand color by using natural-rooted colors like sage or khaki and combine with the black or monochromic look. It is also a good idea to add a little touch of pop color to give the room interest and personality. You can use it as an accent color on pillows and artwork.

Scandinavian design natural tone color pallet with touch up of yellow as an accent color
Photo: Unaplash

2. Scandinavian-style furniture

Scandinavian style furniture with clean and minimalist look

Scandinavian design is known for its clean, simple lines and minimalist approach. Furniture and decor are often sleek and understated, with a focus on functionality and practicality. In this style designers try to create a timeless visual appealing but also livable and comfortable.

Ikea, as a Swedish business, is one of the Scandinavian retailers, but don’t get me wrong; not everything in Ikea is Scandinavian style, but you can find the firmly affordable, simple Scandinavian design in Ikea.

3. Large Windows with Sheer Curtains

Light is extremely important in Scandinavian interior design, as the region switches into darkness for a couple of months at the end of each year. Maximizing natural light is a key aspect of Scandinavian design, which is why you’ll find large and numerous windows covered with sheer and transparent curtains. These windows are even left unadorned during the day to maximize the natural daylight exposure coming inside. Mirrors are also used strategically to reflect light and make rooms appear larger.

dining and living room in scandinavian style with natural light, wood elements natural texture, clean line furniture, plans and mirror

4. Lighting in Scandinavian Design

Due to the long and dark winters, lamps and lightening are essential in every room. From stylish art pieces lamps or glowy-soft wall lights to Nordic-inspired warm chandelier. Don’t hesitate of indulgence, add light in every corner of the rooms.

clean line design furniture and lights
Photo by Clay Banks | Unsplash

5. Invite nature inside.

In recent years, we have seen adding greenery and plants to all interior designs gain popularity. Scandinavian design has a strong connection with nature, and you can not imagine any Scandinavian home without plants. It is a great way to bring peace and calmness to your place.

adding plants an greenery to bring outside into the home
Handmade rattan planet stand from Ikea

6. Scandinavian Style and Wooden Accent

Wooden floors are an ideal choice for covering room floors, as they not only provide beauty but also have high durability and quality.

Wooden walls, flats, and accessories can also be placed in the room as a playful accent.

7. Scandinavian-style with Soft and Warm Textures

Scandinavian design creates warmth and welcoming vibes with warm and soft textiles such as linen, wool, cotton, and mohair. Using these textures on furniture and beds will create a sense of comfort and coziness.

Overall, Scandinavian interior design embraces simplicity, functionality, and a connection to nature, creating spaces that are both beautiful and comfortable to live in.

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