❝Form follows function—that has been misunderstood. Form and function should be one, joined in a spiritual union❞ - Frank Lloyd Wright 

There are many types of interior design and each style consists of distinctive furniture, decors, lighting, and accessories that give it its signature look. By getting to know some of the most popular styles, you’ll better understand what styles stand out to you and meet your preferences. As Frank Lloyd Wright once said, form and function should be one. In today’s “Know Your Interior Design Style Series”, we will be discussing the epitome of simplicity with an emphasis on function and beauty in interior design. It is minimal, clean, influenced by nature but the most important thing, it is cozy! If you haven’t guessed what it is, it’s the scandinavian interior design style. 

Scandinavian interior design keeps things simple, using different textures and soft colors to make modern rooms feel cozy and welcoming. It focuses on clean lines, practical furniture, and a comfortable atmosphere. Scandinavian interior design has its roots in the early 20th century, evolving in response to societal shifts and economic circumstances in Denmark, Norway, and Sweden. A significant moment in its history occurred with the emergence of the Scandinavian Design movement during the 1950s. This movement aimed to promote the principles of simplicity, functionality, and craftsmanship in design. Over subsequent decades, Scandinavian interior design continued to develop, influenced by various design movements and global trends, while remaining true to its fundamental principles of minimalism, clean lines, and natural materials. Today, it remains a highly influential and globally popular design aesthetic.

Why is Scandinavian interior design popular among people? This certain interior design style gained popularity mostly because of its key elements and characteristics, so to answer this question let’s see what are these key elements of Scandinavian interior design!

1. White and neutral color palette

Scandinavian interior design typically features a neutral color palette. This means using soft, muted tones like whites, grays, and beige as the main colors in a room create a calm and serene atmosphere while allowing other elements to stand out.

2. Natural textures 

In Scandinavian-style rooms, natural materials are often used as things like wood, stone, and brick add texture. For example, having wooden floors and white brick walls gives a simple and natural look.

3. Simple, clean lines 

This style focuses a lot on neat, straightforward shapes, keeping things simple, and being practical while still looking nice. In Scandinavian houses, you'll often see tidy lines everywhere, from furniture to the overall layout. 

4. No clutter

What makes it so aesthetically pleasing is its lack of clutter.  Scandinavian-style rooms don't have unnecessary stuff lying around; everything has its spot, and there are no extra knick-knacks cluttering up the space.

5. Bringing nature indoors 

Inspired by the stunning landscapes of Scandinavia, such as lakes, forests, mountains, this design style brings the outdoors in by using natural elements to create a fresh and revitalizing atmosphere. Plants play a crucial role in adding an earthy touch to Scandinavian design, while also injecting bursts of color into its neutral palette.

6. Bright and airy 

In Scandinavian interior design, you often find spaces that feel open and light, creating a sense of breathy airiness. This is achieved through features like large windows, light-colored walls, and minimalistic furnishings, which all contribute to a feeling of spaciousness and tranquility within the room.

7. Natural lights 

Natural light plays a crucial role in creating bright and airy spaces. Homes are designed to maximize the use of sunlight, with features like large windows, light-colored walls, and strategically placed mirrors to reflect and amplify natural light.

8. Simplicity and minimalist 

Modern Scandinavian interior decor is often admired for its simplicity. It's essential to understand that simplicity doesn't mean extreme minimalism or sacrificing quality. Instead, it's about creating a clean, uncluttered look that allows space between objects, letting them breathe and shine.

9. Functional decoration 

In Scandinavian style, decorating with practical items is key. Fill your space with things that serve a purpose and matter to you. Keep your decor functional, aiming to inspire and support your activities or goals. Focus on a few key pieces in each area to avoid overwhelming the space and losing focus.

10. Wood floor and details 

You'll often see the same type of wood flooring used throughout the house, except in wet areas like bathrooms. People also like to mix and match different types of wood, with lighter woods like beech being especially popular. Both hardwood and laminates are commonly used for flooring and furniture in these homes.

Source : Pinterest

Once you’ve got the foundation elements of your Scandinavian design style in place, it’s time to know how to incorporate this interior design into your home space! Since this style is largely minimalist, accessories and decor should remain simple and functional. Here are a couple of simple ideas to get you started : 

1. Play with natural light

In Scandinavian interior design, natural light is a key element. Homes are designed to maximize the use of sunlight, which is abundant in Nordic countries. Large windows, light-colored walls, and strategically placed mirrors are common features, creating bright and airy spaces. This emphasis on natural light enhances the overall atmosphere of the room, making it feel more spacious, inviting, and connected to the outdoors.

2. Use soothing and neutral color palette

In Scandinavian homes, a neutral color scheme is commonly used, featuring shades like beige, gray, and white. These colors enhance the reflection of light, giving the illusion of space and cleanliness in smaller homes. The minimalist design approach further contributes to this sense of openness and airiness, making rooms feel more expansive and beautiful. 

3. Add contrast and burst of colors

Scandinavian interior design is known for its strong contrasts. For example, bold black furniture stands out in an all-white room, making a striking statement. While neutral colors form the foundation of this design, they're often some burst of bright colors, almost like in an art gallery. For instance, in a well-lit living room with neutral tones, rugs and throws in shades of blue and purple add vibrancy, while colorful artwork brings in a sharp contrast.

4. Keep it simple, less is more

Scandinavian design is all about simplicity as mentioned. It means having only what you really need in your home and keeping it clutter-free. You can still have nice things, but they shouldn't take over the space. Consider choosing sliding doors and windows instead of ones that swing open. They take up less room, giving you more space for furniture and moving around freely. Make sure every piece of furniture and decoration serves a purpose, and keep the overall look simple and tidy.

5. Play with natural materials

Scandinavian decor has a lot of natural materials to play with instead of just wood. Of course woods are still used, mostly for flooring which look classy and fit well with the minimalist Scandinavian motif. But you can find plenty of other natural fabrics and materials that you can use. For example, there's sheepskin for rugs, silk and mohair for textiles, hand-knit woolen throw blankets and duvets, soft wool for throw pillows, leather for furniture upholstery, and many other options.

6. Add in warm and cozy textiles 

Adding cozy touches like wool and sheepskin throws, blankets, and cushions can help you create a warm, welcoming, and inviting atmosphere. Try popular colors like different shades of gray, or soft tones like pale pinks and purples, along with natural textures such as cotton, burlap, or jute.

7. Consider using mid-century modern pieces

Scandinavian furniture often has a rich backstory. It's made in a mid-century modern style, known for its clean lines and careful craftsmanship. Each piece is crafted from leftover or repurposed materials with historical value. For example, a simple dining table with a plain top can bring life to a room, even with their minimalist design.

8. Use shelving as decor

In Scandinavian home interiors, shelving is more than just a practical storage solution; it's also a key element of the decor. Shelves are prominently displayed, serving both functional and aesthetic purposes. Particularly noteworthy are the bookshelves found in home offices, considered as true works of art, blending seamlessly with the overall design aesthetic of Scandinavian interiors.

9. Corner your fireplace 

Scandinavian homes are known to have their fireplaces in the corner of a room and not centered on a wall. Seating arrangements are often dedigner accordingly, smaller accent chairs float closer to the fireplace while sofas anchor in middle of the room. Not only there is more space to walk and have decorative yet functional furniture, it also highlight the fireplace as a focal point. 

10. Add greenery, bring the nature inside 

Adding plants to any interior design brings a sense of liveliness and energy to the space. In Scandinavian homes, you'll often see various plant options. You can use planters and tall vases near windows, or decorate furniture surfaces with both live and artificial greenery. Consider placing flower vases on the shoe rack near the entrance, on coffee tables, or dining tables.

Source : Pinterest

That is all our discussion about scandinavian interior design! What do you think of this interior design style? Is it your preference? Consult your dream house with Livvy Luxury Living! Contact us on Whatsapp : +62 878 6894 8000 or visit us at 18 Office Park 25th floor Suite A, Jalan Simatupang Kav 18, South Jakarta.

Content Writer : Arcelia Emmanuella Adiwinata