Wanting to change the interior of a room or an entire house, we look for ideas by looking at photos of interior design in a particular style.
If you are just thinking about it, we invite you to consider such a stunning and extraordinary Scandinavian interior style that confidently competes with other styles, captivating with its originality and novelty.
We are ready to offer you the TOP 100 super interior design ideas that feature the Scandinavian style.
In order not to blindly follow photo examples, but to create your own unique Scandinavian style, we suggest that you familiarize yourself with the main trends and tendencies of this design direction, which will allow you to understand the intricacies of Scandinavian interiors from the inside.
Scandinavian style – modern, light, environmentally friendly design. The Scandinavian interior style is chosen by those who strive to create the most light, unobtrusive interior in the spirit of European houses, which would look interesting and always relevant.
If you look at all the photos of interior design options in the Scandinavian style, you will notice that all the rooms are bright, cozy, and distinguished by an extraordinary combination of shapes, textures, and color accents.
With the predominance of light colors, the Scandinavian style can visually increase the space and make the atmosphere of the room especially cozy. The Scandinavian style accepts light colors as basic, primary colors, and dark and rich colors as accent colors.
Scandinavian style can be used for the design of the main rooms, and for the design of the bathroom, hallway, and loggia.
It is worth noting that the extraordinary Scandinavian style combines minimalism in the selection and quantity of interior elements, multifunctionality and the most comfortable environment for a pleasant pastime.
The Scandinavian style skillfully combines the brightest lighting, light wall decoration, and laconic decor in the interior, which does not clutter up the space.
If, based on the description presented, you already like the Scandinavian style, then let’s say more: light, simple and calm at first glance, the Scandinavian interior is extremely multifaceted.
It is noteworthy that the Scandinavian style of interior design plays very well on the contrast of shades. So, using the Scandinavian style, you can try the contrast of wall and floor decoration, where the walls should be decorated in light colors, mostly white, and the floor should be dark brown, coffee, gray, and even black.
The Scandinavian interior style is reminiscent of the home of a creative person, because there is no complex decor, expensive, intricate details, but there are a lot of elements that reflect the individuality of the owner.
I am glad that both the owners of small apartments and those who live in a huge house can afford the Scandinavian interior style.
Read more about the nuances below...
We have already mentioned that white wall decoration in the Scandinavian style is the most relevant. Against the background of a basic light shade and contrasting floor shades, designers originally use the following tones, such as:
Light gray
Light brown
Mustard
Yellow
Green
Turquoise
Blue
Black
Light blue
Red
Orange
We remind you that, although bright colors dilute the Scandinavian interior, they are used in doses, in small quantities as decoration.
The optimal solution for decorating an interior in a Scandinavian style is to add bright multi-colored accents in the form of
Pillows
Rug
Plaid
Paintings
Colored chairs
Also, the Scandinavian style looks very harmonious due to the introduction of current ornaments, images, photographs into the design, namely:
Stripes
Geometric patterns
Floral prints
Inscriptions
Scandinavian style in the interior of an apartment and house
Scandinavian style in the interior of an apartment or house always looks advantageous. Walls in light colors: white, beige, light gray and pale pastels create the perfect base for the room.
If such colors are boring for you, then the walls can always be complemented with a painting, open shelving or elegant lamps.
Often white walls are combined with one contrasting wall, mainly gray or any other. Light walls help sunlight flood into the home, especially during the long, dark winter months.
Wooden floors, preferably in light colors, are found in all rooms except the bathroom. Flooring made from wooden planks, carelessly sanded and coated with oil or white paint, is also in fashion.
If you want to add coziness and warmth to your interior, buy a carpet. Choose it in light and beige colors. When filling your interior with furniture, accessories and textiles, do not forget that the minimalist-oriented Scandinavian style does not tolerate clutter. Living plants and flowers are ideal for an apartment or house; they will bring comfort and warmth.
Finishing
It is advisable to decide on the choice of style at the renovation stage. Then you can immediately make the walls, floor and ceiling in the required colors and materials.
Walls
Scandinavian-style walls are usually painted in light colors. White is often used for this. To prevent it from reminiscent of a boring hospital environment, manufacturers came up with a special shade for wall decoration in the Scandinavian style and called it Stockholm white. A grayish-yellow component was added to the main color and a white color with a comfortable tint was obtained.
In the dim light of a northern winter day, it prevents the room from looking dark and resembles the color of an eggshell. And in the bright summer sun it does not blind the eyes and does not irritate with absolute whiteness, like a jasmine flower.
When decorating a room, it is permissible to use white wallpaper for painting. But decorating walls with coverings with ornaments or with drawings that catch the eye is unacceptable for this style.
Floors
Wooden floors have always been held in high esteem by northern peoples. Wood retains heat well. Modern materials make it possible to use not only boards made of natural wood, but also parquet, laminate, and linoleum with a wood pattern. The choice of color and texture is huge. You can choose white, gray shades, or brown tones.
Ceiling
The Scandinavian style ceiling retains its classic, even, smooth shape. A multi-level ceiling with inserts made of colored stretch film will have to be abandoned. The simpler the finish, the better. The ceilings are the usual standard white color and fit harmoniously into the simple style.
What are the features of the Scandinavian style?
The distinctive style is expressed in simplicity, practicality and elegantly restrained forms. It's no secret that these interiors are among the simplest and most common in the world. These qualities are present in everything. The interiors are filled with natural materials, light wood furniture, always of practical shape.
Scandinavian style items are laconic, the walls and ceiling have matte surfaces, which makes cleaning easy. The textile is light, very pleasant to the touch, and has a pattern with natural ornaments. Everything to make being in such an atmosphere truly comfortable.
History of origin
The Scandinavian style was finally formed in the middle of the twentieth century. In the post-war period, there was a need to create a cozy, warm environment in the absence of a large number of interior details. In Scandinavian countries, with cold climates, there is a historical tradition of decorating a home in subdued colors.
In the 50s last century, the development of the production of mass-produced furniture, accessible to all segments of society, began. This became possible with the advent of new materials and new production technologies. This is how they made comfortable, practical things that did not go out of fashion for many years.
How to make Scandinavian decor with your own hands?
Although Scandinavian interiors should be kept as simple as possible, no home would look unique without some decor. If you choose white walls, decorate them with paintings or photographs.
Black and white photographs and posters fit perfectly into any Scandinavian interior.
And if a thing is made with your own hands, then it will certainly attract new energy into the house.
Making your own decor:
1. make collages with photographs and newspaper clippings, they will remind you of the best memories in life 2. Make flower pots and decorative plates from clay, cover them on top with transparent resin or glitter. I used this technique when decorating my house, you will definitely like it 3. wooden coasters, carefully sawn with a miter saw and sanded, the smell of wood is guaranteed 4. ekibans of dried flowers and fruits, for example from rowan or tree branches, will decorate the dining table 5 . from beads and small balls you can make a mirror stretcher 6. vases decorated with acrylic paints and decorative elements will add a touch of chic 7. make paintings for the interior, in the same color scheme as the rest of the decor, according to the Scandinavian canons, such paintings should be hung several pieces at a time row 8. Lamp shades decorated with natural motifs look amazing
Don't be afraid to experiment by mixing different techniques.
Color combinations
White color in a Scandinavian interior is the basis for everything. It is like a blank canvas on which every owner can create the perfect design for their apartment. But if in general the entire interior is made only in white, then it will look too boring and impersonal, so it must be diluted. Inserts made of black or light gray will look great, for example, a gray sofa or a black bookcase. This is how a similar range of Scandinavian style looks in the photo:
But interior design in the Scandinavian style is not limited to just one achromatic range. Cool pastel shades will look appropriate in it:
- mint;
- muted light green;
- light turquoise;
- baby blue;
- light lilac;
- dusty rose and others.
You can also add warm accents to your Scandi interior with strokes of yellow, cream, and red. The main thing is that there are few of them and they do not distract attention from the overall calm palette.
When choosing finishes and furniture, you should be careful with the colors of natural wood. As a rule, they are quite difficult to fit into a Scandinavian-style room. If you really cannot do without it, then it is better to give preference to light wood with maximum natural texture.
Interior lighting.
In winter, homes don't get enough natural sunlight, so using different methods of interior lighting is of utmost importance.
Chandeliers, lamps, wall sconces and candles are a great way to add illumination and enhance your mood.
The use of decorative candles in a Scandinavian interior is also mandatory. Candles add nice, intimate lighting, a cozy feeling, and some can bring pleasant smells into your home!
Lamps - characteristic features: in industrial style or models that are also used in loft style. The color scheme is pastel tones or contrasting colors. Materials: glass, metal, concrete or wood, modern forms, without unnecessary details. They often occupy an accent place in the interior, or complement the rest of the decor.
Color design
The impression of comfort and harmony is created by the color schemes of the Scandinavian style. Lightness and naturalness are reflected in warm pastel colors - milky, beige, sand, light brown. Winters in Scandinavia are quite long and harsh; light shades help compensate for the lack of sunlight. White color is often used, which is known to visually enlarge the space, and it also gives the interior a discreet elegance and cleanliness. To dilute light colors, bright accents are used in interior design. Contrasting chairs, lamps, carpeting, paintings, fresh or decorative flowers will add color to the overall picture. Bright colors have always been valued by residents of the northern regions. They allow you to cope with despondency and dullness in the winter season.
Wooden surfaces fit perfectly into this contrast of white with bright accents. It is wood that gives the Scandinavian interior warmth and natural harmony.
Varieties of Scandinavian style.
There are several branches from the traditional Scandinavian style in the interior. These include adding country music to an existing style. This is expressed in furniture and decor, the features of which can be traced to rural simplicity and harmony with nature. You can read about the similarities between country and Provence styles in the previous article.
Modern Scandinavian style is one of the directions of the traditional one, the latest fashion trends are included, the use of bright accents, the main emphasis is placed on environmentally friendly materials, and the design has special functionality and practicality.
Layout features
The style tends towards openness; Scandinavians contrast blank walls with transparent sliding and lattice partitions, zoning with shelving, stands, stairs with living greenery, and less often with podiums.
Note . Light is one of the priorities of the Scandinavian style, so Swedes, Finns, Norwegians, and Danes pay serious attention to windows. They are always large, but energy efficient, so that the sun's rays not only penetrate into the home and illuminate it, but also accumulate and add heat.
In the name of functionality, the kitchen is combined with a balcony and a dining room, a hallway or corridor is often turned into a library, equipped with bookshelves, and the entire apartment is turned into a studio.
Ready-made interior ideas.
Look at the selection of inspiring ideas, where the bright interior has absorbed many features from modern trends. At the same time, this style cannot be confused with anything.
In countries with cold climates, the role of decor in interiors is often played by warm textiles, such as rugs, blankets and maybe even sheepskin. Not only do they provide a warm and cozy feeling, but they also add a pop of color to your space.
Ivory
When you don’t want to use a universal, but still cool snow-white color in the interior, ivory comes to the rescue. It is a tone warmer, so it is guaranteed to surround the inhabitants of the room with comfort. In addition, this shade is ideally combined with other tones: blue, peach, pink, gray.
Living room
Having given preference to this particular arrangement of the interior area, you should know several features. A Scandinavian living room is usually decorated in light neutral tones, which are complemented with bright accents for effect. Colors such as yellow, purple and green are used to provide accents.
The windows are not covered with curtains. Sunlight freely enters the living room.
Buy a gray sofa and decorate it with colorful pillows. You can find one of the most popular and inexpensive gray sofas at your local Ikea.
In the Scandinavian style, adding natural wood to the interior is a must. Place a wooden coffee table or a practical and modern wooden TV chest in your living room.
Textiles are selected in one color scheme; other colors are allowed in decorative pillows and blankets. Lighting: a large stool is located by the window, near a comfortable chair, for reading books.
To ensure that your Scandinavian style in your apartment interior is perfect, you should make sure that there are plenty of pillows on your living room sofa. Even if your chair or sofa is very comfortable, pillows will add a nice aesthetic to the interior and make you and your friends feel welcome.
It is better if it is a minimalist design - a bookcase, a coffee table - this is all the necessary furniture, except, of course, for an essential item such as a sofa. Don't be afraid to leave a wall empty, the motto "less is more" will help you expand the space and add visual appeal to it.
Interior design and decor
The Scandinavian style is characterized by a minimum of decor. Decorations in the form of stucco, wood carvings, and curved parts are not needed in the interior. However, you can add minor details to the design of the room.
Living room
In the living room, you can dilute the simple decor with a rug on the floor with a geometric pattern. Bright pillowcases on sofa cushions will also serve as an accent. It is permissible to place a vase or sculptures in yellow, green, blue or burgundy tones on open shelves. You can hang a panel or picture with natural motifs on the wall.
Bedroom
A Scandinavian-style bedroom is decorated without bright accents. We need furniture of the correct, strict forms using wood textures. You can put a white or gray fur rug on the floor. Bedspreads and bedding should be plain or with a discreet geometric pattern.
Kitchen
In the kitchen, you can use a countertop made of natural wood or plastic with a wood texture. Kitchen furniture facades can be gray or white. Gray-blue and gray-green shades of furniture look especially cozy.
In a white kitchen, you can add an apron on the wall with yellow, blue, green natural patterns. The main thing is not to get carried away with the variety of shades. In the kitchen, a maximum of 3-4 colors is enough: two main ones plus 1-2 additional ones.
Hallway
In the hallway, foyer, and corridor, the furniture has a laconic, straight shape. Wardrobes, cabinets, shoe racks against the background of white or gray walls will emphasize the severity of the style. Adding a wall mirror with a contrasting frame or a brightly upholstered banquette will brighten up the atmosphere a little.
Children's
You can decorate a teen or child's room in soothing colors by adding a bedspread with an interesting print or hanging a wall shelf in the child's favorite color. Sometimes curtains with a beautiful pattern or a poster of your favorite movie character on the wall completely change the space. Just a small touch can make a room not boring.
Scandinavian style has become popular around the world due to its accessibility to all segments of the population. It is not difficult to create on a small budget, whether in a small apartment or a large house.
Fireplace in a Scandinavian interior
If you are creating a piece of Scandinavia not in a city apartment, but in a private house, add a design element such as a fireplace. Scandinavian winters are quite harsh and therefore most homes have their own “fire” in the living room.
Unlike decorative fireplaces, which usually serve as decoration for the living room, Scandinavians use their fireplace for its intended purpose. They are usually simply decorated and located in the corner of the room.
The position of the fireplace in the room plays an important role, often due to technical issues in the arrangement of the chimney pipe system. For small rooms, the best choice would be a fireplace with a rounded façade. Sometimes the hearth is installed along the wall.
It is worth considering the tightness of the structure to the wall and the fastening system. It would be a mistake to install a fireplace on a protruding wall near a doorway.
Nowadays, thinking through interiors in advance, it has become fashionable to install hanging fireplaces in the middle of the room. The structure is attached to the ceiling, the main load falls on the chimney mount. These fireplaces look amazing. The shape is round, with a built-in glass partition. The flames can be seen from all sides. Such fireplaces usually zone the room well, separating the relaxation area from the dining area.
Living room interior
The interior of the living room is a reflection of the character and preferences of the owners of the house. And if we talk about the design features of the living room, then here you can use not only functional objects, but also decorative ones.
In order for the interior to look organic, you still have to adhere to the basic rules of design. And this:
- predominance of white, pastel shades;
- minimalistic design;
- a lot of light.
The interior of the living room is a reflection of the character and preferences of the owners of the house
To make the living room look modern and practical, you should carefully select the furniture. High-quality models made from natural materials are suitable here. They provide comfort for a long time. If you want to slightly change the atmosphere, just change the picture or photographs in the frames, put new pillows on the sofa and armchairs.
In addition to a soft sofa, deep low armchairs with high backs and practical natural upholstery, the following is installed in the room:
- small dressing table;
- stand;
- floor lamps;
- open bookcase (if you have a home library);
- paintings;
- wall mirror;
- TV stand.
Mainly white and pastel colors predominate
This style does not include tulle and curtains in the living room, as well as in other rooms. If you can’t do without them, then choose light translucent curtains of a single color and roller shutters.
The highlight of this living room is the fireplace. It emphasizes the style and makes the atmosphere of the room warmer and more comfortable. Previously, fireplaces served as stoves for cooking and heating; now they are mainly used as a decorative element.
Instead of a real fireplace in the living room, you can easily install a stylized electric, bio or candle fireplace.
To make the living room look modern, you should carefully select the furniture
Decorations for the holidays
Scandinavians have a special approach to interior design for the holidays. We especially love New Year.
What you can’t do without is hot chocolate, warm mittens and plenty of snow. Attention to the sweetest details. Natural spruce branches and balls beautifully arranged on a festive dish will attract everyone's attention. Use homemade toys, knitted Christmas tree toys with various snowflakes embroidered on them.
Garlands and glowing lights on the windows will decorate the atmosphere. Scandinavians love to imitate the clothing patterns of the northern peoples in their jewelry.
The most remarkable thing about Scandinavian design is its simplicity. Exquisite decor, beautiful paintings are great, but you need to remember, the main thing is not to overdo it. Think about your design, let it be minimal. A few non-colorful details
Furnishing rules
One of the symbols of the Scandinavian interior are inexpensive, versatile and highly functional items produced by IKEA. As you know, the specificity of these items is the need to assemble them yourself, which fits perfectly into the hygge concept with its need for handmade items.
Scandinavian furniture is most often light (shades of wood, milk, and ivory predominate), simplified in shape, with clear outlines, without carvings, inlays, shiny or massive fittings. First of all this:
- in the living room there is a low sofa with a wooden frame and rough legs;
- veneer chairs by Arno Jacobson, Hee Welling, Hans Wagner; chairs Eames, Panton S Style, Muuto Nerd, Muuto Cover and Muuto Fiber, Kartell Masters and Salt; rocking chairs and bean bags, sun loungers, hammocks in the recreation area;
- coffee tables with regular contours, possibly on wheels, with wooden or glass tops. Often such tables are complemented by retractable panels and drawers;
- sliding wardrobes consisting of closed and open niches; mobile, ergonomic floor racks for clothes;
- wide, low, not too massive wooden beds in the bedroom;
- simple light chests of drawers;
- bookshelves and low cabinets, shelving.
Note . Scandi style does not strive to fill every corner of the home with furniture. He is drawn to minimalism, which means that the number of large objects should not exceed 30% of the space.
The Scandinavian hallway, as usual, is quite ascetic, it has simple hangers, a wall or floor mirror, and often a bench instead of soft banquettes.
In the living room, life revolves around a simple but comfortable sofa, there are also armchairs, a coffee table, shelves and a floor lamp.
The bedroom can be limited to a bed, a chair and a nightstand that serves as both a dressing table and a chest of drawers.
A Scandinavian-inspired kitchen involves a combination of modular and wall-hung storage systems, as well as a dining island with a good-quality “family” table.
To enhance the feeling of naturalness, color and homeliness (that is, hygge), wicker boxes and baskets are placed next to standard cabinets and shelves in a Scandinavian kitchen.
Bedroom
Winter for Northern Europeans lasts up to six months of the year, so it is important that the home, and especially the bedrooms, be warm and illuminated by natural sunlight.
Light walls and a free, open layout will help you with this. To bring warmth into the bedroom, use soft rugs, sheepskin or wool blankets. For a natural, natural touch, use a wooden headboard or chest of drawers. Don't be afraid to hang paintings, drawings or photographs on your bedroom walls. The main thing is to keep it in moderation.
For sleeping, curtains made of natural fabrics, natural colors, without patterns are allowed. During the day, they are worn as a decorative effect and hang over the edges for a cozy feeling.
Rustic style of the inhabitants of the Scandinavian Peninsula
The rustic style of the inhabitants of Northern Europe is called Scandinavian. It was formed under the influence of the harsh cold climate, as well as ethnic traditions and other features. And just like other country styles from different countries, it is based on environmental friendliness, practicality and naturalness.
The foundations were laid by the harsh Vikings, who valued restraint, unhurriedness, thoroughness, practicality, frugality, and preferred freedom and space. To decorate their homes, they, like all villagers, used natural (environmentally friendly) materials and tried to fill them with light and warmth, so that it would be cozy in the cold, cloudy winter.
Modern Scandinavian interior is just as practical and versatile, because:
- its arrangement does not require large investments of money, effort and time.
- it is quite aesthetic and attractive;
- will create a cozy atmosphere in different rooms;
- perfect for our latitudes, where in winter there is so little light and comfort.
And these are not all the advantages of style. Others can be easily found in the article below.
Children's room in Scandinavian style
For parents, the Scandinavian style in the interior of a children's room is attractive primarily because of its economy, because a fast-growing child's interests and preferences often change.
Let's look at the main features and advantages of a nursery in this style.
Environmentally friendly materials: light natural coating, walls and ceiling are plastered with gypsum plaster, or covered with non-woven wallpaper for painting. Ecological paint with dirt-repellent and detergent composition. The color of the walls is from white to ivory, light gray or any natural undertones. The environment guarantees the safety of any return for the child. For the room they buy transformable furniture, simple inexpensive solid wood furniture.
Methods of zoning in the nursery:
1. educational part, near the window, a bright place where there is a table for lessons and an open shelving with books and board games, open shelves on the walls, a place for collections 2. play area, this is a wall bars, drawers for storing toys, one or more poufs 2. sleeping area, includes a bed or sofa for sleeping, a chest of drawers with drawers, opposite a storage system for things and shoes
Store-bought or home-made decor will add a comfortable stay in the nursery. It is important to allow the child to decorate his room himself with the help of adults. This will contribute to the creative development of children's potential. Use stickers or stencils, or a drawing board.
Choosing furniture
Scandinavian style is characterized by minimalism and a complete absence of pomp and pretentiousness. This is reflected in the furniture. It should have simple geometric shapes, calm colors and be functional. Particular attention is paid to the storage system - open bookcases, wall shelves, convenient chests of drawers with textile boxes inside. Everything should be in its place, because Scandinavians believe that order in the apartment leads to order in life. But it’s definitely better to refuse massive Soviet walls, sideboards and furniture sets.
Upholstered furniture plays an important role in the design of a Scandinavian-style room. It must be upholstered in natural textiles - linen, cotton, suede, or less often leather. To make the room cozier, throw a couple of colored pillows or a voluminous knitted blanket on the sofa or armchair, which will be very pleasant to wrap yourself in on cold winter evenings.
Kitchen
To create a true Scandinavian-style kitchen, paint the walls white, choose white cabinets and add decor. This will give your kitchen a modern look and the illusion of a larger area.
Lighting is a good way to add character and charm to your kitchen design. Built-in lights or LED strip are suitable for the work area. Low, industrial-style pendant lights would look great above a dining table.
If you do have an all-white Scandinavian kitchen, it might be a good idea to add a pop of color through your kitchenware. Decorate the table with a large, colorful fruit platter, jug, or indoor plants.
In Scandinavian countries, the dining room is considered the heart of the home. This is where families gather and meet friends to socialize and enjoy food. Like other rooms, the Scandinavian dining room is usually white or light colors.
To complete your dining area, add pendant lights or an elegant chandelier above the table.
From classic to modern, wooden tables and chairs are perfect for all Scandinavian style projects.
History of style and its priorities
Anyone who has an idea of Scandinavian design will confidently say that its inexhaustible source is the special love of sunlight inherent in the inhabitants of northern countries, their friendly attitude towards nature and a balanced, Nordic character. But this is only half the truth. The second, less romantic, is that the formation of the style took place in difficult post-war times. Many cities in Europe lay in ruins, people needed new housing, which means they needed furniture that was quick to produce, functional, without unnecessary details.
The Danes offered a solution by starting to produce simple and affordable household items from plywood. And IKEA, created in Sweden, began producing standardized beds, wardrobes and kitchens made of pine wood. Laconic, devoid of decoration, things, first of all, corresponded to the reserved character of the Finns, Danes, Norwegians, Icelanders and Swedes. They also did not clutter up the space, making light and “air” the main allies of the interior.
In the 1950s, the term "Scandinavian style" entered the official professional vocabulary. And since then, this method of decorating premises has not lost its relevance.
The priority design features in the Scandinavian style are minimalism, practicality, thoughtful planning, naturalness and naturalness of finishing.
Bathroom
The Scandinavian bathroom is perhaps the only place in the house where you won’t find wood on the floor. But otherwise, the same elements can be seen as in the other rooms: calm neutral tones and varied lighting.
Even though the floor in the bathroom is not wooden, tiles with a texture indistinguishable from wood are often used. Also, part of one of the walls is decorated with wood. The remaining walls are made in white marbled color or with the texture of decorative brick. In such rooms you can often find a shower stall instead of a bathtub. This is a more practical solution for small spaces.
Washstands in bathrooms, if wall space allows, are installed in large sizes. A washing machine and dryer are placed next to them, and a wooden countertop is placed above them. A large mirror adds volume to the bathroom and is a good functional solution. Such bathrooms look modern and neat.
It would be a mistake to use floor-standing toilets, small dark-colored tiles, retro faucets and claw-foot bathtubs in a Scandinavian bathroom.
White
This color is the main star in the Scandinavian style. It is found everywhere here: on the floor, on the ceiling, on the walls, on the furniture. This happens due to the fact that in northern countries the sun appears very rarely, so people strive to at least surround themselves with it and make up for the deficiency. You don’t have to worry that there will be too much white: it will be skillfully distributed throughout the entire interior, “brightening” the rooms and visually adding a couple of square meters to them.
Chair RAGNAR blue
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Chair RAGNAR blue
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Hallway in Scandinavian style
The best solution would be to abandon excessive decor in the hallway in favor of laconicism. Furniture should be chosen white or light wood tones.
The use of a variety of light colors and bright accents in the design of the hallway emphasizes the originality of the style and its originality.
The entrance door should match the color of the wooden floor or porcelain tiles - this will create a neutral, monochrome interior. Low frames of shoe cabinets with large volume can be used as seating.
Since the Scandinavian style in the interior is characterized by simplicity and naturalness, wooden structures without any pompous inserts.
A wall hanger, a shoe rack, a shelf or table for keys and a spacious wardrobe for outerwear in a simple style. These are all storage systems in the hallway. If the corridor is not large, mirror doors are installed on the closet.
What makes an interior typically Scandinavian?
The style has a number of expressive differences that not only emphasize its originality, but also make it modern and practical. Among them the following stand out:
- Daylight.
- Using multiple light sources;
- Open plan without partitions or bulky tall cabinets.
- The predominance of light shades and white in the decoration.
- Low solid furniture.
- Use of natural materials for finishing.
- Original decor with bright elements.
- Comfort and practicality for living.
Use natural materials for finishing
Wooden windows
Due to the fact that winter in the northern regions does not please with warmth and light, people tried to fill their homes with light. To do this, they installed large windows with wooden frames through which a lot of light enters.
Windows in Scandinavian style
To ensure privacy in the room, it is now worth using roller shutters made of natural materials or wooden blinds. In private homes, wooden shutters are used, which are closed at night to ensure privacy.
Do you need curtains?
In Scandinavian-style rooms, curtains are used extremely rarely. But if you are completely uncomfortable with “bare and uncovered windows,” then you should hang them. Plain curtains in light shades are suitable for this. They can be made in the following colors:
- white;
- cream;
- ivory;
- beige;
- blue;
- light blue;
- light green;
- light brown;
- grey.
Curtains in this style are used extremely rarely
Tip: Choose your fabric especially carefully. It should be made of thin natural fibers (cotton, linen) and at the same time remain translucent.
Roman blinds in light shades would also look appropriate. They should be raised to the very top of the window during the day and lowered at night to ensure privacy.
There is never too much light
The lack of daylight, especially in autumn and winter, forces us to pay special attention to lighting devices. These can be pendant lamps, chandeliers, floor lamps, table lamps, or even regular lamps without shades or candles.
They must be monochrome, not multi-colored, and be laconic. Often in the interior there are ordinary incandescent lamps of different sizes, which are screwed into a socket freely hanging from the ceiling.
Geometric chandeliers are also used:
- metal;
- wooden;
- glass.
The Scandinavian style does not use decorative lighting. All devices must be practical. Therefore, you should not use backlights or decorative light bulbs.
Heavy, comfortable furniture made of natural wood
As for the selection and installation of furniture, it is necessary to choose functional, durable and comfortable items with a laconic design. These can be modern soft sofas or antique models with an aging effect.
Products made from natural materials, which are characterized by durability and good quality, are predominantly used. So often you can find furniture made of solid beech, pine, and birch . The shape of the frame is distinguished by strict straight or slightly curved lines. The legs are short and thin. Also, wooden furniture in the Scandinavian style is characterized by the absence of carved decor and a light or natural color.
For upholstery use:
- skin;
- suede;
- durable linen fabric;
- cotton fabric.
It is usually slightly rigid and durable, made in a single color or has a discreet pattern.
Since the Scandinavian interior is spacious, you should not overload it with furniture. For installation, low-rise items are suitable, items that you cannot do without, as well as those that will not clutter up the interior.
Light colors
It is impossible to imagine Scandinavian interior design without white. It is the main one, since the interior made in light shades visually becomes more spacious and lighter. And this is exactly what a room made in the Scandinavian style looks like.
White color diffuses and reflects light and serves as a backdrop for bright color accents. Against such a background, even the most ordinary objects will seem bright and expressive:
- houseplants;
- decorative colored pillows;
- wooden upholstered furniture.
The following are covered with white paint:
- walls;
- ceiling;
- floor;
- furniture frame.
Other items are also painted white. Light pastel shades are also often found, namely:
- light green;
- blue;
- light brown;
- beige;
- grey.
To add originality and expressiveness to the style, the design must contain bright or saturated spots. These can be contrasting black or dark gray objects and colored elements.
The following are bright expressive elements: lampshades or shades on a chandelier, glass vases, pots for flowerpots, decorative soft pillows on the sofa, rugs, floor carpets, napkins or other textiles.
Attention to the walls
To decorate the walls in a house or apartment, they use mainly natural materials in light, pleasant shades. They are covered with plaster of a white, light gray or light pink shade. Wooden panels made from rough-cut boards are also used.
Mostly natural materials are used for wall decoration.
In the bathrooms, bathroom and kitchen, the walls are tiled with plain white ceramic tiles. To dilute the style, use tiles with neat, authentic designs and patterns.
What should the floor be like?
To make the atmosphere as cozy and stylish as possible, you should use natural wooden boards as flooring. To save money, this material is often replaced with laminate. In this case, it is worth using light wood shades or painting with white paint.
Expensive wooden parquet will also look organic in such an interior.
Use natural wooden boards as flooring
Soft colored handmade rugs made from natural materials (homespun, handmade wool) will be an excellent addition to a stylish interior and will make it more comfortable and complete. Natural sheepskin and skins of other animals also look good.
Decor
Since the interiors of houses in northern European countries are characterized by minimalism and laconic design, they mainly use only functional objects and a minimum of decorations. But if there are any, then they must be simple. So the following are used as decoration:
- glass vases that beautifully refract light rays. Dried branches or flowers are often placed in them;
- photographs in wooden frames;
- clay objects;
- metal candlesticks;
- mirrors with or without simple frames;
- textiles in pleasant colors that fill the home with comfort;
- wicker baskets of different shapes and sizes for storing things.
This style uses only functional items and a minimum of decorations.
Where to get inspired?
Get inspired by original ideas for creating a unique interior on our website
See even more photos of ideas using examples of real interiors:
— Free, light-filled apartment in Scandinavia — Modern penthouse in white with views of the center of Stockholm — Stylish apartment with an immaculate bathroom — Elegant white interior in Stockholm
Now a little about furniture
Furniture and Nordic style
Simplicity of geometry and laconic furnishings will be the secrets of successful interior design. Uncomplicated furniture in light colors will be functional and quite practical. The absence of a mixture of bulky futurism and baroque luxury is replaced by the charm of modern and light retro. Racks with a large number of shelves should be of simple shape, coffee and dining tables should be of moderate size. Brown wicker furniture will add attractiveness to the decor. In combination with highlights on the wall, rattan will be extremely attractive.
Winter's Tale
The dull landscape and constant cold could not but affect the situation inside the home. This explains the abundance of ornamental plants indoors. Sometimes this is what determines the main spectrum and notes in the design. An incredible armada of flower pots of different sizes are distributed around the entire perimeter.
Beautiful green vines hang everywhere, and beautiful and dazzling vases like stars are placed on the coffee tables. Floor flowerpots are also often used when combining colors in a Scandinavian interior. In order to highlight living plants, posters and various paintings are used. There are many calendars and reproductions on the bookshelves, and the flora on them will create a favorable climate.
Blooming cacti have a special charm. In such a neighborhood, windows stylized as wooden ones will look amazing. This move makes it possible to add elements of naturalness and ecology. The choice will dictate the correct choice of fittings, which should be in harmony with everything and only stand out a little against the background of natural matter. Locks and handles cannot be shiny and gold. It is allowed to use simple inlaid finishes, which for the most part will leave a feeling of understatement. In harmony with the windows there can be a wood-like door. Frosted glass inserts are casual and not conspicuous.
Unusual accessories
Creating an interior and its design is complex and painstaking work. The designer is a mathematician, an artist, a fashion designer, a generalist and even a psychologist. Creating masterpieces is not easy, especially if it belongs to a large clan of peoples and countries.
If we recall the features of the epic, then accessories with national paintings are often used:
- Snowflakes.
- Deer.
- Intricate geometric shapes.
- Sea animals.
On the flooring you can see roughly woven mats made from multi-colored fabric scraps, rugs with elongated shaggy pile, runners, oversized pillows, and a warm blanket on the chair. The neutral color of the base will be enlivened by rich confetti. A good find would be three of them in malachite, purple and yellow. Such a traffic light will refresh and fill a room of any size with energy. They paint spot small things, but you can even repaint the refrigerator, bar counter, stools and dressing room.
Nordic art objects
Art objects with a small amount of antiques are usually placed directly on the floor. The visual placement of things around the perimeter is the main stylistic principle. There are not only art objects, but even some style solutions. White brick in the interior fits perfectly into the modern rhythm. If you shade it with beige modest things, you will achieve sophistication. The beauty of this finish is the availability of variation. Playing with details, choosing beautiful figurines, replacing them according to seasons or preferences is the key to ensuring that you will always be on trend.
A wall of bricks in pearl light is usually installed in a large living room to emphasize the stylization. Screens with printed designs are very common. They are used for small areas for zoning or highlighting a recreation area. Despite this, they will be functional. The interior design of the walls will depend on the specialization of the room. In a children's room, the color scheme should be such as to create psychological comfort for the child. As a rule, the wall interior gradually becomes a sleeping area, in the form of a bunk bed and bright drawers for games.