What holds a room together when the palette leans pale and the shapes are simple? Scandinavian decor begins with that premise, but then it builds upon it room by room. Let’s trace how those choices take shape across a Nordic-style interior and what you can pick to get great results via a shortcut.
What Defines Scandinavian Decor Style & Its Elements?
Scandinavian home decor style strikes a near-perfect balance between comfort and minimalism—both hallmarks of Scandinavian design. As one of the interior design styles that shaped (and grew with) the 20th century, some of its features also resemble modernism.
But before all that, Scandinavian interior design begins in homes built to carry Nordic people through long, dim seasons. You see it in how the light is treated, or in the abundance of pale wood, which isn’t just a visual choice. Even Scandinavian wall decor is specific. The layout logic prevents the space from absorbing too much shadow, as too many objects dull the light’s movement.
The concept of Hygge might be what sets Scandinavian home decor apart from other styles the most. That is, to create a cozy environment that encourages feelings of contentment. Although the word comes from Denmark, many Nordic homes share the same comforting essence.
Scandinavian house decor incorporates just the right amount of elements– no more, no less. The same applies to Scandi color schemes, typically calming and neutral, with accents popping in measured doses.
Not sure if Scandinavian decor style is right for you? Take our Free Interior Design Style Quiz to help discover your unique decorating style today!
The Best Scandinavian Decor Ideas
Scandinavian Style Living Room Decor
A Scandinavian living room, although minimal, is very inviting. You can also create a welcoming atmosphere at home by softening hard elements and edges with soft textiles. The key to designing a harmonious environment is balancing accessories, furniture, and empty space.
1. Nature-Inspired Artwork
Whether it’s a line drawing or an abstract watercolor, Scandinavian wall decor often depicts or alludes to nature or the human form. You can showcase your favorite monochrome artwork by itself, in a series or a larger arrangement. If you need help with your art layout, try our easy gallery wall guide.
2. Fluffy Textiles
Scandinavian countries can reach freezing temperatures, which is why cozy textiles, like wool or mohair blankets, are essential. Not only do warming throws and rugs add warmth, but they also soften the sometimes-stark look of a minimal Scandinavian interior. These fluffy additions are functional, as well as a stylish textural element.
3. Statement Lighting
Because decoration is limited, functional elements also take on an ornamental aspect. Lighting is one such example. Lantern-like linen, paper, or wicker pendant lights are among the top picks. However, whimsical and colorful contemporary lighting design also features in the latest Scandinavian house decor trends.
4. Simple Pattern
When it comes to motifs and patterns, Scandinavian home decor keeps it simple. Sweet cross motifs, straight lines, mini chevrons, and unfussy geometric patterns perfectly suit these cozy homes. In fact, patterned soft furnishings add a bit of fun into a Nordic-inspired interior.
5. Natural Materials
Natural materials, such as wood and leather, have a special place in a Scandinavian decor style. The rough and rustic look from these earthy elements pairs exceptionally well with the soft and cozy textiles, making them even more attractive.
How to Decorate Your Living Room in a Scandinavian Style
- Opt for bare or minimal floor cover and window treatments.
- Create a casual layout that encourages social interaction – think the sofa, lounge chairs, and coffee table close together but comfortably spaced. If you have a fireplace, even better! Your Scandi living rooms can (and should) evoke pleasant memories of huddling around a campfire.
- Incorporate storage that is as beautiful as it is practical. For instance, a craft coffee table can hold a hidden storage compartment.
- Plan and arrange a monochromatic gallery wall.
- Stick to only two or three Scandinavian decor elements, such as a floor lamp or pendant light, a rug, throw pillows, or a woolen throw.
- Incorporate a few blue accents to stand out against a mostly white, black, or grey color scheme. This could be in artwork, decor, or ceramics.
- Lastly, add greenery! Pot plants are vital, especially when you want to add a pop of color without sacrificing the Scandinavian home decor style.
Scandinavian Bedroom Decor
Minimal furniture, plush bedding, and a few bits of nature make Scandinavian bedrooms sublimely tranquil. These light and airy spaces are calming, but they also master the art of making less seem beautifully cozy. To create this calm atmosphere, you only need a few Scandinavian bedroom décor essentials and nothing more.
Essentials of a Bedroom with Scandinavian Home Decor
- Unfussy nightstands: Small stools or rectangular side tables work equally well as long as you keep the surfaces neat.
- Little lights: Slim table lamps are great, but installing sconces or minimal pendant just above your nightstands is better.
- Minimal artwork: Scandinavian wall decoration is a must! Showcase one or two of your favorite black-and-white photos, typography, or abstract art pieces just above the bed.
- Beautiful bedding: Lush linen, a fluffy duvet, a warming throw, and comfy pillows can certainly make the most inviting bed. Round off this cozy nook with two monochromatic scatter cushions.
- Petite plants: Just like the rest of a Scandinavian home, a Scandi bedroom needs a pretty little pot plant or two to finish the earthy look.
Scandinavian Nursery
If you want to create a calming, gender-neutral room for your little ones, Scandinavian nursery decor will do the trick. The elegant simplicity of a Scandi nursery not only creates a child-friendly space, but it also makes tidying up pain-free.
3 Must-Haves for Scandinavian Nursery Design
1. Cozy Crib
A sweet crib in a blond wood or black finish, made up with neutral bedding, is a delightful addition to a Scandinavian nursery.
2. Dual-Function Storage
Multifunction furniture can make even the smallest of nurseries practical. Items like a changing table that doubles as a dresser can save a lot of space.
3. Simple Toys
Choose straightforward toys, like wooden cars, a simple teepee hut – or a wood baby gym.
Our Favorite Scandi Style Combinations
Scandinavian home decor doesn’t have to stand alone and has the ability to mesh well with other interior design styles. So, here are a few of our favorite combos!
Boho-Scandi
The coziness of bohemian decor and Scandinavian earthiness is a match made in interior heaven. A boho-Scandi interior is vibrant, full of layers but serene. These homes tend to have a monochrome or neutral color scheme, as well as all the comfy trimmings we love from bohemian interiors.
Scandi-Industrial
Industrial and Scandinavian interior decor styles are often on opposing spectrums. On the one hand, industrial interiors focus on manufactured machinery or construction like beams and steel framework. In contrast, Scandinavian design is inspired by nature and conviviality. As a result, the combination is striking as soft natural accents and hard surfaces merge, like in a Scandi office makeover.
Scandinavian Modern
Modern and Scandinavian styles also come from the same revolutionary design era. Both trends prefer sleek lines, drawing attention to the natural world, and honor natural materials. Accordingly, these interiors are refined and elegant.
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