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How to Decorate Scandi Style: Our Top 5 Ideas
- Neutral Palette: Use whites, greys, and soft pastels for a clean, serene look.
- Minimalist Design: Opt for simple, functional furniture with sleek lines.
- Natural Materials: Incorporate wood, leather, and linen for warmth.
- Cosy Textiles: Add wool throws, rugs, and cushions for comfort.
- Functional Décor: Choose pieces that are both beautiful and practical.
Scandinavian design, or Scandi style, has become a global favourite for its simplicity, functionality, and timeless aesthetic. Originating in the Nordic countries, Scandi style embraces minimalism, natural materials, and an inviting atmosphere, making it ideal for creating a calm and comfortable home.
Whether you’re redesigning an entire room or looking for small changes to infuse this style into your space, here’s a comprehensive guide to decorating Scandi style.
1. Start with a Neutral Palette
At the core of Scandi design is a light, neutral colour scheme. Whites, soft greys, beiges, and muted pastels dominate the palette, creating a clean and airy foundation.
To add depth and avoid monotony, incorporate subtle contrasts with darker accents like black or charcoal, often found in furniture legs, lighting fixtures, or framed artwork. The result is a serene space that feels open and balanced.
2. Embrace Natural Materials
Scandi style places a strong emphasis on using natural materials to bring warmth and authenticity to the space:
- Wood: Light woods like birch, pine, or oak are commonly used in floors, furniture, and decor. Their raw, natural look complements the minimalist aesthetic.
- Textiles: Opt for natural fibres like linen, wool, and cotton in throws, cushions, and rugs. These materials add texture and coziness.
- Stone and Ceramic: Incorporate simple stone or ceramic pieces, such as vases, planters, or bowls, for an earthy touch.
3. Let There Be Light
Natural light is a cornerstone of Scandi design. Large, unobstructed windows are common in Scandinavian homes, allowing as much light as possible to flood the space.
If you can’t maximise natural light, opt for lighting solutions that mimic its warmth:
- Layered Lighting: Use a mix of floor lamps, table lamps, and pendant lights to create a well-lit but cosy atmosphere.
- Simple Fixtures: Stick to minimalistic designs for lighting, such as clean-lined metal or paper pendant lights.
4. Focus on Functionality
Scandi style isn’t just about how a space looks—it’s about how it works. Furniture and decor should serve a purpose, prioritising usability and comfort.
- Choose multifunctional pieces, like storage baskets or extendable dining tables, to maximise efficiency in small spaces.
- Keep surfaces clear and organised. Scandinavian design values simplicity over clutter.
5. Add Cozy Textures
While Scandi interiors are minimalist, they never feel cold. This is achieved by layering soft textures to create a sense of hygge—the Danish concept of cosiness.
- Use plush throws, sheepskin rugs, and chunky knit blankets to soften the look of clean lines and hard surfaces.
- Layer cushions on sofas and chairs in muted colours and simple patterns, like stripes or geometric shapes.
6. Keep It Minimal
Minimalism is key in Scandi style, which means choosing quality over quantity when it comes to decor. A few carefully selected pieces are better than an abundance of clutter.
- Stick to simple, clean-lined furniture with no ornate details.
- Choose decor items that are meaningful or functional, like a well-curated shelf of books or a single statement vase.
7. Bring Nature Indoors
Scandi design celebrates a connection to nature, and plants play a big role in achieving this. Add greenery to your space with low-maintenance houseplants like:
- Pothos
- Fiddle-leaf fig
- Snake plant
- Monstera
Natural elements like a vase of fresh flowers, a bowl of pinecones, or a collection of stones can also bring the outdoors in.
8. Incorporate Scandinavian Art and Patterns
While Scandi style is minimal, it isn’t devoid of character. Introduce personality with Scandinavian-inspired art and textiles:
- Art Prints: Black-and-white photography, abstract prints, or minimalist line art are perfect for adding subtle visual interest.
- Patterns: Use simple geometric or nature-inspired patterns on rugs, cushions, or curtains. These add depth while staying true to the style’s understated elegance.
9. Make It Cosy with Hygge
To truly embrace Scandi style, you must incorporate a sense of comfort and cosiness:
- Create a nook with a comfortable chair, a soft blanket, and a warm light for reading or relaxing.
- Place candles throughout the home for a soft, warm glow. Scandinavian winters are long, and candles are an essential part of creating a welcoming atmosphere.
10. Stay True to the Essentials
Ultimately, Scandi style is about simplicity, functionality, and natural beauty. Avoid overcrowding your space, and focus on creating a home that feels calm and welcoming.
Final Thoughts
Decorating in Scandi style is about more than aesthetics—it’s about cultivating a way of life that values simplicity, comfort, and connection to nature. By incorporating these principles, you can transform your home into a serene and functional retreat, no matter where you live.
Start with neutral tones, layer in natural materials, and let light and comfort guide your choices. With Scandi style, less is always more.
Tell us how you capture your Scandi style or review our range of Made in Britain Scandi products.
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