Opt for Light, Neutral Colors
Whites, creams, greys and light blues are quintessential Scandinavian colors. They help brighten up spaces and create a calm, soothing atmosphere. Paint your walls or get soft furnishings in these neutral, muted tones. Avoid bold, saturated colors and instead let the natural light do the work.
Choose Natural Materials
Natural, raw materials are an essential part of Scandinavian decor. Wood, cotton, wool and linen work beautifully for furniture, textiles, and accessories. Look for items made from solid wood rather than laminates or veneers. Unvarnished wood has an especially light and airy feel. Natural fibers like jute, seagrass and sisal are perfect for rugs and baskets.
Embrace Minimalism
Scandinavian style is centered around simplicity and functionality. Declutter your space and pare back to only the essentials. Choose multifunctional furniture and avoid knick-knacks. Have some empty space around items to keep things airy. Floating shelves, rails, and racks allow you to neatly display belongings while keeping floors uncluttered.
Bring In Lots of Light
Maximizing natural light is key in a Scandinavian interior. Use sheer curtains, blinds or shades to filter light while still keeping things bright and open. Paint window frames, doors and trim white so they almost disappear. Add mirrors to bounce and amplify light around. Go for floor and table lamps rather than overhead lighting.
Use Clean Lines
Scandinavian furniture and decor have very simple, sleek forms with little ornamentation. Mid-century modern and contemporary styles work beautifully. Avoid heavy carvings, turnings and finishes. Let the natural beauty of the materials shine through. Keep furniture low and visually lightweight to maintain an airy feel.
Add Woodsy Touches
Bring in organic texture with natural wooden accents. Floating wood shelves, round mirrors with wood frames, tree stump side tables, wood block candleholders and rattan storage baskets are great options. Use plants like succulents, orchids, ferns or air plants for an earthy element.
Layer Rugs
Layering natural fiber rugs on top of wall-to-wall carpeting or hardwood floors is a signature Scandinavian decorating technique. Try a jute or sisal rug topped with a sheepskin throw or shag rug. Mix different sizes, shapes and materials for interest. Rugs help delineate spaces in open floor plans.
Display Artwork Simply
Scandinavian interiors have an unfussy approach to art displays. Hang artwork or prints in basic black frames in gallery formations on walls. Prop unframed canvases against walls for a casual look. Opt for neutral artwork that complements your color scheme. Black and white photography and graphic prints work especially well.
Make Textiles Cozy
Bring warmth into your space with textiles. Use textured blankets, throws and cushions on sofas or beds. Try chunky knits and woven textures. Sheepskin and faux fur add inviting softness in moderation. Candles and lanterns create a cozy glow. Plaid and striped patterns can add personality.
Use Pops of Color
While a Scandinavian space is typically light and neutral, you can liven it up with pops of color in accessories, artwork or textiles. Mustard yellow, light sage green, sky blue and dusky pink work nicely. Bring in color with pillows, rugs, throws, mugs, planters, books or fresh flowers and plants.
Key Takeaways
- Focus on a clean, minimalist look with neutral colors, natural materials, and lots of light.
- Choose multifunctional furniture with simple lines and natural wood finishes.
- Embrace texture with wood accents, natural fiber rugs, and cozy textiles.
- Add pops of color and personality with accessories and artwork.
- Create an inviting, serene environment centered around simplicity and functionality.
Scandinavian style brings the beauty of nature indoors through neutral colors, natural materials, and plenty of light. It results in spaces that are calming, cozy, and full of clean, contemporary style. With a less-is-more mentality and focus on functional design, this aesthetic will help any space feel open, airy, and refreshed.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scandinavian Style Decorating
Here are some common questions people have about embracing Scandinavian design in their homes:
What are the key colors used in Scandinavian decor?
Whites, greys, blues, and neutral, earthy tones like beige and brown are most commonly used. Black and wood brown add contrast. Pops of brighter colors can be added in accessories.
What kind of furniture works best for this look?
Opt for sleek, contemporary, or mid-century modern styles with straight lines and simple silhouettes. Natural wood finishes are ideal. Avoid ornate or heavy furniture.
How can I add texture to a Scandinavian space?
Use natural fiber rugs, sheepskins, woven throws, cable knit blankets, rattan baskets, and real plants. Wood accents also bring in cozy warmth.
How do I create a minimalist Scandinavian look?
Focus on decluttering your space, keeping furnishings to only the essentials, and avoiding clutter. Floating shelves and invisible storage help keep things neat and visually simple.
What are inexpensive ways to get the look?
Try neutral bedding, woven rug lookalikes, wooden blinds, gallery walls, and natural fiber baskets from home goods stores. Candles, plants, and throws add cozy texture.
Should my walls be painted white?
Not necessarily – light greys, blues and greens work beautifully too. White trim makes windows disappear into the walls for a clean look. Use color sparingly in artwork or accessories.
How do I make a space feel light and airy?
Maximize natural light through windows and mirrors. Sheer window treatments let light filter through. Minimal furnishings and high ceilings enhance the open, airy feel.
What type of artwork fits best?
Black and white photography, graphic prints, and neutral abstract art complement the color scheme. Hang art simply in black frames or canvas gallery style. Let pieces breathe on the walls.
How can I avoid a cold, sterile look?
Incorporate plenty of textures with rugs, throws, pillows, and warm lighting. Fresh flowers and houseplants also prevent a space from feeling too stark.
Conclusion
The Scandinavian decorating style allows you to create a space that feels open, serene, and full of natural light and texture. It’s centered around simplicity, functionality, neutral colors, and natural materials that give a light, minimalist look. Add personalized touches like artwork, greenery, and pops of brighter accessories to keep things from feeling too cold. With its timeless, modern appeal, this aesthetic will turn any room into a relaxing oasis.
