A Guide To Scandinavian Decor
I really enjoy mixing decor styles in my home BUT the one style I often gravitate towards, and where I draw the most inspiration from, is Scandinavian! What I love about Scandinavian decor is its cozy simplicity but also its ability to be extremely functional and purposeful. The style harmoniously mixes natural elements while still incorporating darker accents to add depth and visual interest. Here is a quick guide on how to accomplish a Scandinavian look and feel in your home.
Vibe
The Scandinavian vibe is cozy, calm, and clutter-free. It’s minimalistic with an aesthetically pleasing, yet functional vibe. The design in a space is always purposeful and serves a function in the way a person lives.
Color Palette
Scandinavian color palettes are typically soft hues and calming colors found in nature. You’ll also see dark colors paired with soft tones like whites, taupes and sages. Example: A black steel window or a black vase incorporated paired with light wood and neutral-colored fabrics. (scroll down to see color palette inspiration)
Furniture
Furniture is typically light, blonde wood and not overly stained. The shapes are also simple but meant to have a multifunctional purpose- like a stool that is also used for storage, or a bench that has shelves underneath for shoes.
Fabrics
This is where it gets fun with Scandinavian style! You can play with the same soft color palette but incorporate tons of different textures like linen, chunky knits and sheepskin throws. You can also pair these heavy textures with natural fabrics, like leather.
Window Treatments
Typically you won’t find heavy curtains or window treatments in Scandinavian decor but if you do, it should be minimal and sheer to allow ample amounts of light to come in. Think sheer, light-colored curtains.
Lighting
Lighting is a very important element in this decor style. You’ll find candle-lit moments and simple light fixtures that provide a warm ambiance throughout the home.
Art
The same rule applies when using art in Scandinavian decor: keep it minimal and simple. You’ll likely find the use of line art, textured abstracts and graphic gallery walls in a space.
Accents
You’ll really find nature coming indoors with accent decor like plants and organically shaped ceramic vases paired with metal details. A cozy chunky knit throw draped over the edge of a couch with layers of graphic print pillows.
Quick Tips + Color Palettes
If you love Scandinavian decor just as much as I do, watch my YouTube video below for an in-depth guide + some fun DIY’s to add a Nordic touch to your home.
XO, MaCenna