Doing it Scandi Style

Scandi style, otherwise known as Scandinavian design, has become something of a phenomenon in recent years, with its emphasis on functionality, simplicity and beauty providing inspiration for homeowners worldwide. Whether you live in a house in the countryside or a city apartment, if you like the idea of bringing Scandi style into your home, it can be done.

This blog explores the key elements of this much-loved design style and provides tips on how to incorporate it into your interiors.

What is Scandi Style

The concept of Scandi style is very much rooted in form and function. It came to the forefront in interior design in Nordic countries Sweden, Denmark and Norway during the mid-20^th century, with a focus on minimalism, natural materials and clean lines. And while it’s very much a design ethos, it’s also a lifestyle, where the key values are simplicity, sustainability and comfort.

Key Characteristics of Scandi Design

Choosing the right colour palette

Let’s start with a Scandi colour palette. Neutral colours and tones are key when it comes to planning Scandi home décor, such as whites, greys and soft beiges, with colours such as muted blues, dusty pink or greens acting as the perfect accent colours. Nothing should be too loud or bold – the colours you introduce into your home need to create a calm and minimal aesthetic.

Natural Materials are Key

Natural materials have a central role to play in Scandi design. Materials such as wood, wool, leather and stone provide warmth and texture and complement a calm and elegant interior. Think wooden tables and bookshelves, leather sofas and stone plant pots.

A key element of this style of design scheme is an abundance of natural materials. Stone, leather and wool are used a fair bit, but one thing you’ll tend to see over and above anything else is wood. Wood panelling and flooring is often popular, but also wood furniture tends to feature heavily. This gives a room a warm, organic feel, inspired by the beauty of nature.

Favour Form and Function

With simplicity one of the key values of Scandi décor, everything in your interior should have a purpose, there’s no need for clutter or unnecessary items. Furniture should be both practical and elegant. Think about clean lies, tapered legs and subtle curves, which are common in mid-century modern sofas such as the Cranbrook.

Pieces with more than one function, such as storage ottomans or extendable dining tables, are ideal for smaller spaces.

Natural Light

Alongside natural materials, Scandi design favours natural light – which you can achieve through a more open layout, well-placed mirrors, open blinds and/or sheer curtains.

While natural light is great, it won’t last throughout the day so additional lighting needs to be a factor. There shouldn’t be any bright white lighting – instead consider ambient and accent lighting with warm bulbs to create a cosy and inviting atmosphere. You also can’t go wrong with some candles – they’re an absolute must for a Scandi interior!

Add texture

Scandinavian winters are cold, and so cosy warm accessories are essential. Add texture to your space with chunky knit throws, woollen blankets and sheepskin rugs. They don’t just add an extra layer to your space aesthetically, they bring real warmth to the table.

Think Quality not Quantity

Scandinavian interiors place a real emphasis on quality over quantity. Better to have one beautifully made piece of furniture than multiple poorly made pieces. Focus on craftsmanship and investing in items that will stand the test of time.

The layout and look of the space should be functional and uncluttered, with clean lines and not too many accessories (but don’t worry, this needn’t look cold).

This kind of look is really easy to introduce into your home and is a great way of giving your space a fresh, modern and elegant update. Alternatively, you can incorporate many of the key elements into your own style to give it a sleek, chic refresh.

Take the Sustainable Approach

Sustainability is another key factor to consider when trying to create a Scandi-inspired interior. Has the wood for your sofa or table been sustainably sourced? Can you find recycled materials for your cushions or upholstery?

Vintage and upcycled furniture can work beautifully in this style of interior. Spend some time in vintage and antique shops and bring something home with real character and charm.

How to bring Scandi Style into Your Rooms

The easiest room to start with is your living room. Create a stylish focal point with a mid-century modern sofa, which exudes elegance but offers next level comfort. Consider the upholstery – would a leather sofa work in your space? If you’d prefer a fabric sofa, head towards a more neutral colour palette.

In terms of room colour, again think of creating a minimalist aesthetic with white walls and wooden floors, and then add warmth through your throws, cushions and rugs.

With additional furniture such as tables and cabinets, look for ones made from natural materials, with clean lines, that blend seamlessly into your interior. Add some plants to connect with nature and light some candles and relax!

For your bedroom, let’s start with the bed, which can very much dictate the style of your space. Use crisp white linens for that minimalist effect and incorporate a cosy throw and some cushions. To add further texture, consider a neutral fabric headboard. Try to keep the space uncluttered and look to add natural materials such as wooden bedside tables and some plants.

Ultimately, Scandi style should bring a real level of elegance to your space, with a calm, minimalistic and inviting ambience. Spend some time considering your space and how to apply the Scandi design principles and enjoy the process!