Scandinavian decor and interior design have grown incredibly popular in many places around the world beyond the Nordic region. From greater Europe to the United States, people everywhere are adopting the minimalist approach to home decor and interior design that Scandinavians are known for!
Scandinavian interior design mainly comes from the northern European countries of Sweden, Denmark, and Norway. The minimalist style of Scandinavian designers from this area was introduced to the United States in the 1950s and 1960s. Many iconic pieces of furniture were created and thus, it is sometimes associated with mid-century modern style.
The two styles differ when it comes to light: Scandinavian spaces feature bright white and airy rooms while mid-century modern spaces tend to feature darker wood and moody interiors.
Scandinavian Interior Design Basics
If you’re looking to get started with Scandinavian decor in your home, then this guide should give you a basic overview of the central elements of Scandinavian home design!
Scandinavian Furniture
Scandinavian furniture is known for its clean lines, functional design, and simplistic forms. Chairs and sofas often have thin, minimal legs. Fabrics are gray, white, or neutral in color.
A few of the most common pieces of furniture found in Scandinavian home design include light gray sofas, egg chairs, wishbone chairs, Artek stools, tulip tables, spindle back chairs, Panton chairs, simple garment racks, and many chairs designed by Charles and Ray Eames including the classic S-shaped plastic side chair.
Check out the most iconic mid-century modern chair designs to understand the history that influenced modern-day Scandinavian home interiors.
Scandinavian Home Decor
Scandinavian decor is minimal in nature, just like furniture. You can easily decorate your home in the Scandinavian style by using simple and minimal decorative accents in neutral colors like white and beige. A few of the most classic Scandinavian decor elements include white or ivory sheepskin rugs, the iconic dome-shaped Panthella lamp, and a chunky knit blanket to keep warm during those cold Nordic winters!
Here are some Scandinavian home decor ideas:
Scandinavian Designers to Know
Many Nordic designers contributed to the international fame of Scandinavian home design and style. Here are some famous Scandinavian designers whose work has made a significant impact on the design world:
- Arne Jacobsen – Known for his iconic furniture designs such as the Egg Chair and Swan Chair, Jacobsen’s work is characterized by sleek lines and functional yet elegant designs.
- Alvar Aalto – A Finnish architect and designer recognized for his organic forms and innovative use of materials, Aalto’s furniture designs, like the Paimio Chair and the Savoy Vase, are celebrated for their modern yet natural feel.
- Hans Wegner – Often referred to as the “Master of the Chair,” Wegner created numerous chair designs, including the Wishbone Chair and the Shell Chair, which showcase his focus on craftsmanship and functionality.
- Verner Panton – Known for his avant-garde and futuristic designs, Panton created vibrant and unconventional furniture and lighting pieces, such as the Panton Chair and the Flowerpot Lamp.
- Poul Henningsen – Renowned for his innovative lighting designs, Henningsen’s most famous creation is the PH Lamp series, which utilizes layered shades to diffuse light and eliminate glare.
- Eero Saarinen – Although he was of Finnish descent, Saarinen was born in the United States. He’s recognized for his iconic furniture designs like the Tulip Chair and the Tulip Table, characterized by their sculptural and organic forms.
- Ingvar Kamprad (founder of IKEA) – While not a designer per se, Kamprad played a pivotal role in making Scandinavian design accessible and affordable to millions through IKEA, which offers a wide range of stylish and functional furniture and home accessories.
These designers have left a lasting legacy in the world of design, influencing countless contemporary designers and continuing to inspire new generations with their timeless creations.
Scandinavian Style Design Inspiration by Room
Here are a few rooms to inspire you to decorate in the Scandinavian style.
Scandinavian Living Room
Scandinavian living rooms are minimal in appearance, with abstract art or solid-colored decorative accents. We love Scandinavian sofas for their beautiful marriage of form and function.
Scandinavian Kitchen
This typical Scandinavian kitchen features grayish-blue cabinets and spindle back chairs. Simplicity and practicality come first in a space as functional as the kitchen!
Check out more Scandinavian kitchens here.
Scandinavian Home Office
Oversized pampas grass sits on this Scandinavian home office set up with a natural wood desk and minimal office chair.
Scandinavian Dining Room
A black pendant light contrasts nicely with the wood dining table and chairs in this Scandinavian dining room. Scandinavian dining tables are always practical and pleasing to the eye.
Sheepskin throws can be placed over metal dining chairs as seen in this dining room:
Scandinavian Bathroom
A simple black mirror and black faucet work perfectly in this marble Scandinavian bathroom.
Check out all our Scandinavian bathroom decor ideas.
Scandinavian Bedroom
Keep it simple with matching white mid-century modern nightstands and a natural wood bed frame, just like in this Scandinavian bedroom. Be sure to check out our selection of Scandinavian beds and Scandi nightstands.
You can also view more Scandinavian bedroom inspiration.
Scandinavian Reading Nook
Here is a cozy and cute Scandinavian reading nook. A black metal wire chair has a small faux fur seat cushion for comfy reading sessions. A wooden leaning ladder holds a black and white throw blanket to stay warm.
I hope you found this quick guide to Scandinavian design and decor useful in curating the perfect Scandi look in your home!
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Stay tuned for many more Scandinavian interior design ideas on our site.
