Scandinavian interior design (colloquially, Scandi design) is all the rage, seemingly. If minimalism was an art form, then the Scandinavians would have mastered it. But it is. And they have. If you were to find yourself in the middle of a Scandinavian space, you’d feel the warmth ooze through its design style. The light would fill each room. You’ll experience what it means to exercise restraint in a design style through simplicity and yet make a space feel cosy.
Scandinavian interior design is also one of the reasons why Nordic countries often rank high on the happiness index. It is modern, functional, sleek and awe-inspiring, all at the same time. Every inch of a space is thoughtfully used, which is one of the reasons why the Scandinavian interior design style is so influential. This article will dive deep into its inspiration and understand its roots.
History of Scandinavian Interior Design
Once home to castles and cathedrals built by deriving inspiration from other countries, Scandinavia (a region that includes Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Iceland, along with a few islands) found its design character in the early 20th century. It was only then that the architects began designing buildings that were attractive, clean and in balance with nature. The style that was then developed was called Swedish Grace, a mix of Neoclassicism with a few traditional elements. Think of the Stockholm City Hall, built in 1923.
This style was also a nod to the fortresses, churches and other settlements built during the Viking King Harald Bluetooth’s rule in the 10th century. 1930 onwards, Functionalism (Funkis) took centre stage, keeping political and economic priorities in mind. Over the next few decades, the design styles evolved with the times, with interiors beautifully done up in soft hues of blues, whites, browns and greys.
Key Features of Scandinavian Interior Design: Curating Lagom
One glance at a space and you’ll immediately know it’s Scandinavian interior design. What makes it so distinct? Here are a few key features:
1. A Subtle Colour Palette
The winters in the Scandinavian countries are sombre and long, with little to no sunlight. Creating the interiors in soft blues, browns, greys, or whites makes a space appear bright and incredibly warm, counterbalancing the darkness outdoors.
2. Casting the Warm Wooden Magic
Light woods like beech, pine and ash are not just used to create sleek furniture. They are also used for flooring, toys, and art pieces – wherever creativity flows. Wood is Scandinavia’s carpet, flooring and, in many cases, walls too!
3. Composing With Mod Furniture
Modern furniture is at the crux of Scandinavian interior design. It elevates a space’s contemporary quotient, making it practical at the same time. Natural materials like leather and linen for the upholstery complement the wooden frames.
4. Scandinavian Interiors = An Amalgamation of Texture and Art
Scandinavian buildings are often built in odd shapes. They don’t shy away from playing around with things. Similarly, they combine textures and multiple art pieces indoors to create a striking style. Ceramics, patterns in pastel colours, woollen throws, etc. are also commonly used.
5. Interesting, Cornered Fireplaces
Unlike most of the world, Scandinavian homes have fireplaces in the corner of the room, creating a cosy nook. Seating arrangements and other design pieces complement the fireplace, with larger furniture placed in the centre of the room.
Cues: The Five Foundational Principles of Scandinavian Interior Design
All Scandinavian interiors are built around these five principles that have stood the test of time. The design ideas are incomplete without weaving in these five things to achieve a truly Scandinavian interior design landscape.
In Scandinavia, it’s more than light; it is like an aura of illumination. Scandinavian interior design plays with natural light, having ceiling to floor windows that are translucent or transparent. Skylights and glass ceilings are also the norm.
Hygge is more than just a Danish word, it is the way of life that maximises on comfort and cosiness. The interiors are designed to facilitate life’s little pleasures and calmer lifestyles by promoting relaxation.
3. In Sync With Nature and Sustainability
The famous ‘Tree Hotel’ in Northern Sweden is the perfect example of Scandivanian interior design that connects with nature. Designs are tailored according to the surrounding landscapes, offer mesmerising views, without disturbing the natural environment. The spaces are also energy efficient and sustainable, designed to last for lifetime. They are made with organic and natural materials.
The famous ‘Tree Hotel’ in Northern Sweden is the perfect example of Scandivanian Interior Design connected with nature. Designs are tailored according to the surrounding landscapes, offer mesmerising views, without disturbing the natural environment. The spaces are also energy efficient and sustainable, designed to last for lifetime. They are made with organic and natural materials.
Homes and other spaces in the region are extremely spacious, with the priority of design being zero clutter. The spaces are also flexible and welcoming by having minimum decor pieces and furniture.
Scandinavian Interior Design: Brimming with ‘Hygge’
For scandinavian interiors, one needs to emulate the design style by making some simple changes. Paint your walls in neutral colours like white, use minimalistic furniture, throw in cosy blankets, pillows and rugs made from natural materials and declutter. You can also install larger windows to let in more natural light, use candles, lamps and different yellow-light fittings. Don’t forget to add in some large, green plants or local flora and adopt sustainable solutions. Most importantly, remember this Scandinavian saying while designing your space, “That which is loved is always beautiful.”
Scandinavian interior design is a break from chaos, with ‘calm’ breathing at the centre of their interior design. Minimalism is a trend that never goes out of style in the region. The style is a perfect blend of old-world warmth and contemporary, functional living. These beautifully layered spaces are known to inspire lifestyles that encourage tranquility and happiness. Their style is groundbreaking without doing much, finding its way into spaces across the globe. It’s surely here to stay.
