8 Main Features Of Scandinavian Interior Design

Scandinavian design is centred around feeling of comfort and cosiness, being happy and satisfied. The aim is to create a cosy, relaxed room with plenty of comfortable elements like fluffy throws, soft sofas and throw pillows that add texture and warmth to the space.

1) Bright and natural lights

Scandinavian design celebrates light – both natural and artificial.

It emphasises both natural light as well as lighting sources to create the perfect, cosy atmosphere.

Don’t stick to just one light source – combine table lights with wall sconces and floor lamps. Lighting fixtures must have clean lines and uncomplicated designs.

2) Muted and natural colours

This style depends on a muted colour scheme. White, grey and black are interwoven seamlessly with natural colours like greens, browns and tan. This will give your living space a calm, clean and comfortable atmosphere.

There is a movement towards a more colourful Nordic design style that uses bolder colours; however, these colours still retain a natural component – like terracotta, rust or jewel tones.

Walls are typically painted white, while colour is incorporated through art, decor or furniture items.

3) Soft textures

Although clean lines and geometric designs are key elements of the Scandinavian style, soft textures bring the whole look together.

Most Scandinavian interiors make use of light wood for the floors, like pine or beech wood. Other soft, natural textiles can also be utilised thought your room, like wool throws or animal hide rugs.

Layering textures will give your space a warm, cosy feeling. This can be done by adding blankets, rugs, throws and scatter cushions to sleek furniture items. These items not only add warmth and comfort but also softens the overall look of the straight-lined furniture pieces.

4) Play with patterns

Even though colours tend to be muted, it does not mean that patterns cannot be used throughout the design.

Floral, botanical or symmetrical patterns are popular in Scandinavian decor. Patterns can be incorporated through wall art, blankets, rugs or any other accessories you use to decorate your home.

5) Geometric lines

Scandinavian furniture is comprised of basic geometric shapes. Wood and metal are seamlessly combined to create these shapes, especially when it comes to the legs of furniture. The compass shape is very popular with furniture legs – especially tables and chairs.

Geometric shapes are also used in textile patterns. These patterns are soft – both in terms of fabric and colours – using cotton, linen, fur and suede. Cushions and rugs consist of geometric patterns that compliment the common black and white colouring of the walls and furniture.

6) Greenery

Scandinavian interior decorators will tell you that it is crucial for this design style to bring the outside world indoors through plants and greenery. Plants give rooms a homey feel, provide fresh air, and also bring colour into the space.

There are many different indoor plants that can be used in Scandinavian design. Popular plants are often those without bright colours, like the Monstera Deliciosa (mainly found in eastern and southern parts of India such as Goa, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Kerala) or the Fiddle Leaf Fig symbolize fertility, good luck, and abundance.

7) Scandinavian art

Scandinavian art makes use of patterns, black and white ink drawings, and more modern art prints. You can create your own Scandinavian art by printing and framing artistic black and white photographs, using simplistic decor pieces like flower vases, or incorporating light fixtures into the room’s decor.

8) No clutter

Scandinavian interior design is characterised by a lack of clutter and simple design. It makes use of practical pieces that do not fill up unused spaces. Empty space forms part of the design style so don't not be scared to leave blank areas in your home.

Click here! To learn about the Pros and Cons of Scandinavian Interior Design.