How to create Scandinavian decor?

1) What is Scandinavian style?

Just as the little black dress will never go out of style, Scandinavian design will always be a classic in interior design—it’s even proven to improve your health.

There's something about its simple aesthetic that draws us in every time. While we have a soft spot for maximalist pieces, we'll always be minimalists at heart.

It's the "no makeup" interior design trend, but just like celebrities who tout this look, these interiors didn't just wake up like this either—perfecting the clean Scandinavian style isn't as simple as it seems.

The main question we ask ourselves is, What is Scandinavian design?

Definition: Scandinavian design is characterized by minimalism, clean and simple lines, functionality, and decluttering. It first emerged as a design movement in the UK and USA in the 1950s.

Hypnotized by this style, which is both refined and raw, the ideas came from a trip to Scandinavia to document Swedish, Danish, Norwegian, and Finnish homes.

And while each of these countries has a distinct style, there are a few defining factors. "They are all stripped down." "Generally, the walls are light-colored (white or light gray are the most common choices) to draw in natural light, and wooden floors are dotted with rugs (you very rarely see carpeting)."

2) Opt for Scandinavian materials

Scandinavian homes are perfect examples of all-white spaces. Scandinavians know how to implement the right mix of textures in a home so it doesn't stray into cold, stark territory.

It's explained to us that this is all thanks to the use of natural materials in furniture and wooden flooring (something said to be abundant in Scandinavia's lush forests), adding an instant layer of warmth.

"The room is also soft and inviting, thanks to the layers of texture," "Think sheepskin throws, pure stone-washed linen, and wool blankets."

Other natural materials include leather, wood, stone, wool, and cotton. "They can be added to a room in many different ways, including furniture, tabletops, countertops, plant pots, blankets, and cushions." "It's a great way to add texture and interest to a space."

A) Exercise restraint

Known for their clean lines and muted colors, Scandinavian spaces are both aesthetic and highly functional. According to specialists, Scandinavians achieve this balance because they "generally exercise great restraint in decorating their homes."

It's explained: "Practicality is key, and furniture is chosen for both form and function.

A sofa, for example, can be beautiful—upholstered in a good quality material and have beautiful clean lines—but it can also contain built-in storage and double as a bed. By choosing highly functional pieces, you need fewer items, which results in a cleaner aesthetic."

We advise buying larger pieces (which are harder to replace) in neutral tones (like light gray), then adding color and patterns using cushions, throws, and even an accent wall. "This way, you can easily refresh your home without significant effort or investment."

B) Decluttering is key

The health benefits of decluttering are well known. There's something about this simple, clean design style that makes us feel better just looking at it. But it's harder than it seems to get rid of your belongings and conform to a clean aesthetic.

However, if you want to achieve Scandinavian style in your home, decluttering is key.

"We are all guilty of buying things we don't need, and it can be difficult to part with our belongings, but it's quite therapeutic once you start."

"I recommend starting by dedicating five minutes a day and sorting items into three different categories: keep, throw away, or donate.

Once you reach a level of items you're happy with, remember the "one in, one out" rule: For everything you buy, one thing must go."

C) The white Scandinavian look

From afar (and on Pinterest), it looks like most Scandinavian homes are all white with touches of natural materials, but do they ever use color? According to one study, there has been much more in recent years, mainly dark, deep hues with an earthy tone.

"I've spotted entire homes in dark gray or deep blue, but generally the darker paint is used in one room, like the bedroom, to create a cozy atmosphere," we are told.

"This year, we're also seeing more dark green hues. Wallpaper with bold botanical patterns is also becoming increasingly popular again; it's often confined to an accent wall or one or two rooms."

3) Scandinavian home particularities

If you truly want to recreate the Scandinavian style, specialists say there are three main qualities you need to consider.

"Natural light is essential (due to the long, dark winters), and that's why architects usually try to design homes with large windows."

"That's also why people rarely use heavy, double-lined curtains, preferring linen or other diaphanous materials that slide into pools of light. Floors are wooden (sometimes painted white or light gray), and candles are essential to create a warm atmosphere after dark."

A) Master the high/low mix

Although this design style is filled with high-end designer pieces (and coveted vintage items), Scandinavian interiors are renowned for their high/low mix.

The key is to invest in pieces that stand the test of time and can be passed down through generations, like a beautifully designed designer chair by a famous artist. "I would choose to save on items such as cushions and artwork, which can be easily swapped out seasonally."

Don't be afraid to scatter your favorite designer furniture with a few IKEA items or big box store finds. This adds an eclectic touch to the mix and creates dynamic visual interest.

B) Always mix and match

Scandinavian homes always look lived-in, not perfectly styled. To achieve this authentic appeal and move away from a "cookie-cutter" look, specialists tell us it's important to mix and match.

"Often, you'll like one style more than another, such as contemporary and bohemian or Art Deco, as well as pieces from different eras." So it's important to follow that feeling and combine objects you love, regardless of their genre.

Take your time to gather objects you love and those that have meaning, rather than rushing for an instant result. That's what will give your home personality and a unique touch.

C) Making old new again

One of the most important lessons is the process of creative expression. Artistic license is something homeowners have unleashed in each of the featured decorations. With a little "vision and imagination," something can be given a whole new life.

"I've seen wood from an old barn transformed into an ultra-modern kitchen (using reindeer harness leather as pulls!), old warehouse windows recycled to create a bright bedroom, and even a completely dilapidated cottage, without heating or electricity, transformed into a magnificent cabin overlooking the Norwegian fjords."

But it's not just about old objects. "One homeowner had bought a mirror for its shape, but hated its sleek modern look. So she left it for two years in the garden, where it lay under autumn leaves and a foot of snow," one of our advisors recounts. "It now holds a prominent place on her fireplace and looks like an antique. Truly inspiring."