The history of Scandinavian design is much different than we think of today.
Scandinavian design was originally much like Victorian design, with castles and cathedrals using styles from abroad.
However, as the years went on Scandinavian design became known as we know it today.
It wasn’t until the 20th century that Scandinavian architecture and design was refreshed and created!
Photo Courtesy of Scandinavia Standard
By blending the newer technologies with newer international designs, Scandi design has 3 defining traits: functional, attractive, but minimal, and in balance with nature (Rueben, 2023).
And these traits have translated into modern Scandinavian design, which has been adopted worldwide.
Because Scandinavia often has dark winters, based on how far north they are, the Scandinavian design uses light colors in its interiors to balance out the lack of natural light during the wintertime.
Common words that describe Scandi’s design are clean, minimal, and stripped back.
Anything unnecessary is taken away, but it doesn’t strip it back so much that you are left with a bare, cold room.
Unlike modern design, Scandinavian’s focus is making sure rooms feel warm and inviting, without clutter.
Monochromatic palettes are generally used, often white or cream will be the main star in the palette, but other colors that are rooted in nature will be brought in, like sage green.
With the furniture used, Scandinavian design again focuses on pieces rooted in nature. Organic materials like ceramics, wood, wool, cotton, and/or linen are used to warm up the space and make it inviting. Generally speaking, the wood used in Scandi design is a lighter color to keep the spaces brighter.
Although very minimal, house plants are also used to bring nature inside. Unlike bohemian design where whole rooms can be filled with plants, Scandi design uses smaller plants or one big one – keeping the space clean and decluttered but bringing in an extra piece of nature.
Large windows are also featured in Scandi design, light is essential, and natural light is the best version of light!
When bringing in unnatural light make sure the light is softer, fluorescent lighting isn’t your best option as it takes away from the soft, calming feel of Scandi design. And with those lights sticking to minimal lights with clean lines is your best option! Think exposes metals and maybe even the light bulbs are exposed.
And what about décor like vases and canvases?
Yes, they can be used, however, when choosing your décor pieces think minimal. You don’t need 5 photos on the wall, choose 1 big, minimal monochromatic painting. Or maybe 2 smaller ones. For the frames think simple, adding a dramatic gold frame may take away from the simplistic, clean design.
And vases can be used, but again keep in mind minimalistic when looking for them. Also, keep ceramics in mind. Keep everything simple because simplicity is beautiful!
Designing a new public space with Scandinavian design and wondering what pieces from Flexxform would fit the design?
Our brand-new Gio is the perfect option! Gio is a simplistic and compact piece, the exposed metal on the back strips it back to expose the clean lines that Scandi design loves! It also can have contrasting upholsteries, meaning you can bring your monochromatic palette to the piece.
Reach out today to get a quote on Gio or any of your favorite products - quoting@flexxform.co.
References
Davies, R. (2023, January 27). Scandinavian Interior Design: Everything You Need to Know About This Winter-Friendly and Nature-Inspired Style . Retrieved from Architectural Digest:
Jain, S. (2018, April 20). To Go Scandinavian or To Keep It Minimalistic? Retrieved from Livspace:
Loft. (2019, March 3). Scandinavian Design VS. Minimalist Design - The Real Difference. Retrieved from Loft:
Loohuis, L. (2019, September 18). Scandinavian office interior design. Retrieved from Skepp:
Mallon, B. (2022, October 6). What Does Scandinavian Style Really Mean? Retrieved from Apartment Therapy:
McCrory, S. (2022, September 29). What is Scandinavian Design? Retrieved from Scandinavia Standard:
Rethink Studio Interior Design. (2018, April 12). SCANDINAVIAN VS. MINIMALISM. Retrieved from Rethink Studio Interior Design:
Rueben, J. (2023, January 17). A Brief History of Scandinavian Architecture. Retrieved from Scandinavia Standard:
Savoie, G. (2022, May 2). 12 Beautiful Scandinavian Interior Design Concepts. Retrieved from My Domaine: