Get the look: Scandinavian Style
Clean lines and a modern, minimalist vibe meet functionality in Scandinavian design — this is a timeless look that isn’t going anywhere, anytime soon.
If you’ve been dabbling in the decorating space for a while, you’re bound to have heard ‘Scandinavian style’ or ‘Scandi design’ get thrown around when talking interiors.
This on-trend style first emerged in the 1930s, in — you guessed it — the Scandinavian countries of Sweden, Denmark, Norway, Finland, and Iceland. It wasn’t until the 1950s, however, that this style really took off. With an emphasis on simplicity and function, Scandinavian styling is the incarnation of the Danish philosophy, hygge.
Hygge is all about taking a moment to pause and embrace the little things in life. It’s that quality of contentedness that comes from curling up under a nice warm chunky-knit blanket with a hot cup of tea or lounging on a comfy armchair reading a book in the sun on a Sunday morning. In Scandinavian styling, everything has a practical function.
Let’s dive into ‘Scandi’ style and explore everything you need to know to achieve this timeless look in your own home. From furniture to fabric, texture to timber — we’ve got you covered.
First stop… functional furnishings
Scandi interiors tend to lean more toward monochromatic or muted tones and organic materials. Think crisp whites, light and dark greys, black, and beige hues paired with light-coloured timber, such as birch, pine, ash, or white oak. It’s not uncommon to find the occasional leather, marble, or metallic accent too.
Minimalism is an overwhelmingly important feature in Scandinavian style, so be deliberate in your choices. Consider your lifestyle needs and how furniture and accessories may enhance them, then set about planning the key pieces you might need. The trick is to avoid unnecessary clutter!
Maliante Tv Unit from Nick Scali
Intriguing artwork
Artwork can be a powerful addition to any room. It has the ability to inspire creativity or invoke a sense of calm. To keep with the Scandi theme, opt for bold but minimalist black and white prints like this Allure line drawing from Provincial Home Living.
A bookworm’s delight
Everyone needs a cosy corner to snuggle into. We love this sleek but oh-so comfy Mila Occasional Chair in dark grey from Catalano Interiors. Add a faux fur cushion, knitted throw, and some ambient lighting to transform this minimalist armchair into a dreamy little reading space.
Cushiony comfort
You can never have too many cushions. No, really! Cushions have the ability to turn a bed or couch into a cocoon-like nest which ultimately creates maximum comfort and certainly supports the hygge philosophy! Choose a textured option like this soft Taledo Ecru cushion from Harvey Norman
Bring life to your space
Bring the outdoors in! Adding pops (or should we say, pots?) of green plant life to your space helps to break up monochromatic colour palettes while simultaneously helping to purify the air. A win-win.
To achieve the look, select an array of pots and vases in different materials, shapes, sizes, and textures to create height and visual interest. Experiment with unusual species of plants too but just a word of warning to pet owners — be careful of toxic plants for your furry fam!
St Ives Hanging Pot Silver Leaf from Adairs
Accents and accessories
Focusing on texture and shape is a tried-and-true method of adding focal points, without the use of bold and bright colours. Keep this in mind when selecting everything, from appliances to soft furnishings for your Scandi makeover.
Mix and match patterns and materials to add intrigue to the area without overdoing it, as IKEA has done in this simple but homey kitchen styling. Note how combining subtle textures through textiles and natural materials like marble and timber create focal points around the room.
Warm and woolly
Striking a balance between comfort and clutter is key when planning your Scandi space. Everything in the space should be practical and serve a purpose. Adairs’ warm Newport Grey Marle chunky-knit throw will look stylish while keeping you totally snug on those cooler nights in winter.
Eat and be merry
Scandinavian culture encourages spending lots of quality time with family and friends. What better way to show how much you care for your loved ones than to nurture them with a feast! IKEA’s got a huge range of dining set options, but we love this LISABO and LEIFARNE combo.
Sleek and stylish
Simple, straight lines is what Scandinavian style is all about. The sleek 50’s retro range from SMEG, available at Harvey Norman, weaves stylish simplicity through its design. Constructed from sleek stainless steel with a white chrome finish for that Nordic aesthetic.