How to Achieve Ultra-Cool Scandinavian Style

Scandinavian style has a lot going for it. It’s modern, but not cold, and cool, but not intimidating. It looks effortless. It’s also bright and airy, which makes sense, because Scandinavians have to live through dark, long winters.

If you want to achieve this covetable look in your own home, here are some tricks you can use.

5 Tips for Scandinavian Style in Your Home

Get the style that’s eponymous with Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Iceland, and Finland.

1. Use (Mostly) Muted Colors

Scandinavians love their neutrals. However, when you copy this style in your own home, choose light neutrals. Soft whites, creams, light beiges, and grays create a soft, cozy mood while bouncing around light. Both of these elements are essential for Scandinavian winters. For you, they make your space look bright and stylish.

2. Add Lots of Texture

Scandinavian style draws inspiration from the woods, lakes, and fjords that make up the surroundings. As such, you’ll see lots of natural wood in light finishes (think beechwood and fir) as well as natural materials like leather and wool. Add these textures liberally to keep your home from feeling too modern and cold.

3. Be Mindful of Negative Space

The airy, light feeling in Scandinavian design is partly due to the lack of clutter. Negative space is important to help create the feeling of room to breathe. If you want to emulate this style, don’t crowd the room with furniture, and don’t fill up every blank wall with pictures. In fact, leave some wall space and some corners deliberately empty, and avoid piles of stuff on your counters and tables.

4. Choose Clean Lines

Famous Scandinavian design company IKEA is known for its clean-lined look and modern appeal. Stay within this frame of mind when choosing your furniture. Don’t go for fussy or elaborate pieces. Stick to mostly minimal furniture with mid-century flair.

5. Add Color and Life in Small Doses

If you long for color, you can add it in, but do it sparingly. Bring in plants or fresh flowers, or hang up photographs or paintings. If you’re adding art, stay on the modern side, or at least choose modern frames. You can also add color through simple throw pillows and rugs.

6. Make Sure Your Space Has Adequate Light

If your room doesn’t get much natural light, make sure you have enough lighting sources to banish the darkness. Choose one overhead fixture, a couple of table lamps, and a floor lamp for a bright room. Additionally, don’t forget to light candles to cozy things up.

Scandinavian Style Is Within Your Grasp

If you covet Scandinavian design, follow these tips to make it feel like you travel to northern Europe every day of the week. Paying attention to a few important factors can easily transform your home into a stylish, bright, modern, yet cozy place.