Everyone is talking about it, but what exactly is the Scandinavian decor style?
More than just a trend, Scandinavian decor is rooted in a philosophy that underpins its founding principles. Ready to travel into this universe?
The Principles of Scandinavian Decor
Scandinavian interior design is the meeting point between the desire for a tidy space and the wish to live in a calming and warm environment.
Specifically, Scandinavian interior decor has several objectives:
- Improve daily life
- Create harmony between design elements and nature
- Adopt a minimalist style by opting for functionality without sacrificing beauty
- Create a sense of serenity by prioritizing bright and airy spaces
The Origins of Scandinavian Decor
Scandinavian decor is inspired by a mix of old and new styles from Denmark, Sweden, Iceland, Finland, and Norway.
All these regions are characterized by vast natural spaces and long, harsh winters with very little light. These characteristics explain two essential elements of Scandinavian decor: maximizing spaces to allow for as much light as possible and effectively retaining heat.
Thus, the focus is primarily on clear, warm, and comfortable interiors because we spend a lot of time in them!
Focusing on the Concept of Hygge
Beyond seeking material improvement in one’s living space, Scandinavian decor is rooted in its philosophy.
The word "Hygge" comes from a Norwegian term meaning "well-being." This term's principle is to find happiness in everyday things, to enjoy the present moment, and to do something good for oneself and others.
Applied to interior design, the goal is to create a comfortable and relaxing atmosphere that provides a general sense of well-being. Hygge is the essence of Scandinavian interior decor. Here are its founding principles developed in this article.
Simple, Clean, Functional Designs
Things need to be practical, functional, simple, and clean! What serves no purpose should not clutter the space; only what makes sense should be included, no more, no less! There are not many ornate or excessive details in Scandinavian design.
Thus, Scandinavian decor is based on clear lines, modern pieces, and furniture that facilitates storage or even hides it. In this style, you’ll find the Lulea console, the Bali bedside table, or the Ohama armchair, whose clean lines fit easily into a bedroom, office, or living room.
However, the aspect of comfort and aesthetics is not overlooked. The challenge lies in balancing form and function: creating warm, welcoming spaces that are always functional and practical. A harmony found in everyday life, in a quest for continuous improvement.
A Play of Texture Between Natural and Eco-Friendly Materials
Scandinavian decor draws inspiration from nature. Lush and vast in Nordic countries, it is a central element that integrates into the designs themselves. Designs with natural forms, furniture made from natural materials, make the interior feel like an extension of the outdoor environment.
Several elements are involved: wood, fibers, textiles, colors, decorative objects, and plants. Everything is designed to create balance and harmony!
All these materials blend together, bringing a balance of textures. Opt for wooden furniture, boucle fabric armchairs, and rattan dressers. Note that the recent trend in Scandinavian decor includes metallic finishes, which we have developed in the Lincoln chair range, with metal legs, a wooden backrest, and a boucle fabric seat.
The principles of Scandinavian design promote environmentally friendly interiors created with organic and sustainable materials. For Nordlys, these values are realized through the use of 100% FSC-certified wood from sustainably managed forests and the use of OEKO-TEX-certified fabrics made from healthy, sustainable compositions.
Subtle Colors
Again, Scandinavian decor is reminiscent of a natural decor style. We choose subtle colors that can be found in a natural environment.
Use shades of gray, white, brown, and black. In an office with our Soro chair, or in a bedroom with an Oslo bench. Add gray to a living room by placing a Diana armchair.
Choose neutral, discreet colors with pastel tones, and above all, have fun mixing them together!
Light walls pair well with cool blue and gray textiles, for example. Today, the movement is evolving, and some designers from the “new Nordic” movement are introducing more vibrant colors like bright yellow.
Always remember that there are no limits! What matters is the harmony of the colors you choose. And harmony is based on the combination of a light color with a dark color: nothing more!
Conclusion
Scandinavian decor has its own history and culture. It is based on a timeless philosophy aimed at well-being and comfort at home.
The Scandinavian decor style relies on several principles: simple, clean, functional designs, a play of texture between natural and eco-friendly materials, and the choice of subtle, natural colors.
The key lies in the harmony between these different elements: you are the master, trust yourself!
