Get the Look: 7 Scandinavian Design Elements for a Cosy Home

Scandinavian design is becoming increasingly popular in the modern home. The simple and minimalistic style is perfect for creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. With its focus on natural materials, neutral colours, and clean lines, a Scandinavian-inspired home can be both stylish and functional. Here are some tips for designing a Scandinavian-inspired home.

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1. Choose Natural Materials

If you’re like me and adore the rich beauty of natural timbers - you’re in love. Natural materials are at the heart of Scandi design, and wood usually hits the top of the list.

Choose furniture and materials made from wood, as well as natural fibres such as linen, wool, and cotton. Natural materials create a warm and inviting atmosphere, while still keeping the overall look minimalistic.

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2. Opt for Neutral Colors

When I talk about neutral - colour lovers cringe at the lifelessness. But Scandi neutrals are anything but lifeless. 

You’ve got a panoply (that means a lot!) of beautiful subtle colours to choice from; hundreds of shades of white, beige, greys and blacks. 

This is the type of style where we (mostly) avoid bright or bold colours, which are often distracting and distorting if not incorporated tactfully. You can add a touch of colour through accessories, such as pillows and throws, but keep the overall colour scheme muted and neutral.

P.S. If you are a bold colour must kind-of-person then this style probably isn’t for you.

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3. Add Plants

If you are a plant person - you’re in luck. Scandi design loves a good variety of plants, anything for succulents, ferns and other low-maintenance varieties. Visit your local garden store and speak to the gardener about what indoor plants are best for you.

Place them around the room in different sizes and heights to create a sense of balance.

Bonus tip: Mark up your floor plan with the locations you wish to house your indoor plants. Don’t forget to highlight where your heating and cooling are! Take this with you to the plant store -  this will help the gardener accurately advise which plants will thrive best for their relative location to light and heat. 

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3. Choose Simple Furniture

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The scandi style is about simplicity and functionality, that ethos extends to the furniture. Look for pieces that are made from natural materials, such as wood, and have clean, simple (theres that word again!) lines. Avoid overly ornate or flashy pieces, as they will not fit in with the overall look.

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4. Incorporate Natural Light

When it comes to essentials - you can’t go past national lighting. The more light you can let in, the brighter and airier the atmosphere. 

Select window treatments (aka: curtains, blinds etc) that will let in as much natural light as possible. Opt for sheer curtains (these are the semi-transparent ones!) or blinds that filter the light without blocking it.

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**Bonus tip: If you’re struggling for natural lighting, consider placing large mirrors opposite or perpendicular (that’s means next to) your windows. 

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5. Include Textiles

Using textiles is the secret between interior design and interior disaster. Textiles ooze the cozy touch and the Scandi-inspired home celebrates this through elegance and subtlety.

Think timber grains, linens, wools, and cotton. Avoid glossy cabinets, polished floors and glass tables. 

You can use textiles layered on furniture, such as sofas and armchairs, to add visual depth and interest.

6. Create a Focal Point

Every great design has a focal point - and Scandi-style isn’t any different. 

Don’t mistake a focal point for a feature wall; these are different things. Instead, consider a piece of artwork or a statement piece of furniture. Choose a piece that stands out and adds visual interest to the room. You can then accessorise around it to create a cohesive look.

7. Add Personal Touches

Don't be afraid to add personal touches to your Scandi-inspired home. If you know me, you know I’ll tell you your house is not a home without this. 

Incorporate photographs, artwork, and other items that reflect your life, passions, and personality. If the Scandi-style is a fit for you, you’ll find many of your treasured items will settle effortlessly into the space.

Final Thoughts

Creating a Scandi-inspired home isn’t for everyone (that would be boring!) but it might just be for you. I’ve shared some key principles for curating a beautiful Scandinavian inspired home. Keep these tips in mind when designing your own Scandi-inspired space, and you’ll be sure to create an inviting and cozy atmosphere.

What Next?

If you’d like to invite the beauty of a scandinavian-inspired interior into your home, but struggling for clarity and design confidence - reach out to me, I’d love to help you out.