Since the 1950s Scandinavian living has been a popular lifestyle to recreate in our homes. From functional storage and monochromatic colour schemes to large house plants and loving textures, one thing is for sure, Scandinavian living has many perks for any household. The strong connection to nature is reflected in the use of natural shapes and odd abstractions to create strong visual interest. We dive into the nitty-gritty of cool Scandinavian décor trends.  

Modern Clean Lines    

Mid-Century modern furniture or furniture replicating these lines and simplicity are a favourite in a space dedicated to Scandinavian home design. Simple furniture with clean lines is usually muted with natural shades as its key function is to neutralise the space in style. 

Cosy textures are inviting and allow the space the warmth it requires to give an overall Nordic-living feel. Heavy textures in moderation pair well with modern furniture and create an inviting ambience.  Sheepskin and faux fur accents are a stylish addition to your room without too much fuss. Simplicity is key, after all. 

Invest in items that are well-made with a touch of luxury. Flooring is simple in Scandinavian interior design. Bring some texture in with rugs and throws to the no-frills set up.  

Functional Storage   

True to Scandinavian décor style, items in the home should be functional and double up as décor. Clothing racks, styled to perfection, look iconic in bedrooms and offer a glimpse into Scandinavian fashion too.   

Nothing is in excess and certain pieces are worn because they are comfortable and stylistically acceptable in both work and recreational settings.  Another reminder that multifunctionality is important. 

Scandinavian furniture is used for storage and to hide eyesores in the home. Natural materials are the core of Scandinavian home décor. Wood and leather pair perfectly as design elements. A nod to metals should also be given here. These three natural elements used together create synchronicity.   

Basic Lighting in Scandinavian Décor

Lighting is also, and obviously so, functional in the Nordic-inspired home. Their first choice of lighting is natural. Make use of large windows that flood spaces with light. Window treatments are sparse to make as much use of natural light as possible.   

Shutters and light-blocking shades work well because they do not clutter windows too much. Their minimalistic and clutter-less look are usually found in neutral colours or in basic white or black.  

Lantern-type lights, that are super basic and simple, adds to the theme of simplicity and calm. In addition, it adds the necessary appeal any minimalistic-type space craves. Pendant light fittings in natural materials like wood and paper can act as playful accent pieces.   

Modern table and desk lamps are also used in Scandinavian décor to create an appealing and warm mood.   

Monochromatic Art   

Interior design trends that incorporate Scandi style is all about well-curated artworks in monochromatic colours. Pops of colour used sparingly is the order of the day, leaving many decorating elements to take on a one or two-tone colour range. 

Simple graphic artworks can adorn your walls, or you can opt for large-scale monochromatic, non-objective abstract works. Line drawings, traditional sketches and even unique black and white photographs look timeless. Choose minimalistic frames that are cohesive with the style and design of your space.  

Monochromatic decorating elements should, however, not make you feel limited at all. Personalising your space with found objects you have collected will add the warmth you may feel the room lacks.   

Black and white are used artistically in these types of settings. Having two colours to work with and then skillfully adding pieces of colour is what makes the space uniquely Scandi cool. 

Uneven or organic black and white stripes add a modern twist to chevron type textiles that are making a comeback.  

There is a fine line when trying to balance minimalistic, cool and cosy. Explore this interior decorating style by combining a few of the trends we love mentioned here. 

Find more inspiration on our Ideas Page.