It will probably not have escaped your attention that Scandinavia is enjoying a prolonged moment in the limelight. Whether it is the deluge of TV shows and movies set in the Nordic countries or the cuisine of some of the most prestigious restaurants in the world, it seems as though we just can’t get enough.
Nowhere is that love of all things Nordic quite as obvious as with interior – and exterior – design. Trends usually come and go when it comes to designing homes and interiors but Scandinavian influences have been in favor for so long that it is difficult to remember a time when we weren’t being inspired by Swedish or Danish designers.
Outdoor living and activities are big in Scandinavia and have become an inspiration in their own right. With sports and activities a big thing in Nordic society, it is no wonder that outdoor life can inform the way that people live their lives. That includes how they decorate their homes – inside and out – and we wanted to share a few classic Scandinavian elements and ideas to help you be inspired to get “the Nordic look” for your home.
Hygge
You may or may not be familiar with the idea of hygge. But it is something that runs through the core of Danish life, in particular, but can also be seen in all Scandinavian life. In short, hygge is a feeling of coziness with comfort and conviviality high on the list of prerequisites. Its elements inform the entire way many Scandinavian people live their lives.
The peoples of Denmark, Sweden, and Norway are routinely thought of as being the happiest in the world and much of that is down to this concept of hygge. Some of the inspirational ideas we are going to share are fundamentally hygge, while others all contribute to a feeling of escaping a daily rush and enjoying the company of friends and family.
Outdoors Space
For a part of the world that endures some of the coldest winters, inclement weather, and shorter days of sunlight at times of the year, Scandinavian life is heavily associated with the outdoors and outdoor living. The utilitarian materials and color schemes mean that outdoor staples can also be used in your own interior spaces.
Outdoor living is another central component of the concept of hygge we were talking about earlier. Sharing time with loved ones is easy when it can be done outside and that is why the look of these social gatherings has become so popular as an inspiration to Scandinavian design all around the world.
Think Sociable
Scandinavians love to socialize outside but the basic elements can easily be translated into an indoor space. The main thing to remember is that there should be plenty of chairs – obviously, enough for all the people that are expected. The other very important factor here is that they should all face each other to create a social grouping.
Even if you are expecting a lot of people, there is no need for a large space. The whole idea of Scandinavian life – and the design it inspires – is that no one is shouting to be heard and everyone is within easy reach of each other. A central table works very well here, allowing everyone to be involved.
Lighting is Everything
Candles are integral to the Danish concept of hygge but you can also get the right feel for your Scandinavian-inspired indoor or outdoor space with fairy lights. The more the better is a good rule of thumb but avoid the kind of lights you might put up at Christmas – Nordic design is all about warm-toned and neutral lighting.
It is quite incredible how some simple lighting can really change the mood of a room or outdoor space. By using these kinds of lights, you are already creating an ambience and mood that is perfect for a Scandinavian evening. Once it gets really dark, the lights double up as functional too.
Intelligent Design
The word “functional” is one that is commonly used to describe the way Scandinavian design works. But it should not be thought of in a negative way. Nordic design may seem almost stark and minimal to many people more used to overcrowded rooms and spaces. But this type of design is always intentional and well thought out.
It is very rare to see an over decorated room in Scandinavia and it is that inspiration that you want to take into your own space. Think about the negative space and what every element is going to be used for. It may seem like a minimal way of filling your home but the benefits will be immediately obvious.
Bold Color
As we have just pointed out, there are a number of misconceptions about Scandinavian design and one is that the color palette is minimal, if not boring. It is true that a lot of more neutral tones are used in this kind of design but that only makes the use of bold color even more noticeable.
That idea of intelligent design comes to the fore again, with splashes of bright color used to great effect. It may even be because of the colder and bleaker conditions of much of Scandinavia that pops of bright color are used. They can really brighten up a space and help make the room feel cozier.
Scandinavian Basics
We have already mentioned a few of the basics when it comes to using Scandinavian inspiration to decorate and fit your indoor and outdoor spaces. But that central concept of hygge is a must, with the use of natural elements and wood also very important.
It is up to you how you use Scandinavian design to inspire your home but remember the ideas of friends and family, lighting, and comfort. Then you won’t go far wrong and you will inevitably recreate a small part of the Nordic region in your own home.
