Renowned for their simplicity, utility, and beauty, Scandinavian homes have a pure, pared backed style that is centred around warm functionality, clean lines, flawless craftsmanship and understated elegance. The use of light is considered to be extremely important, and many Scandinavian homes are characterized by the use of earthy muted tones, honest materials and minimal ornamentation.
Here are Staffan Tollgard’s (of Staffan Tollgard Design Group) top 10 tips to help you recreate the Scandi style in your own home.
1. Floors
Wall to wall carpets never took off in Sweden and all truly Scandinavian interiors will have a wooden, preferably light, floor in all rooms apart from the bathrooms.
2. Colour
White walls and cool grey and blue textiles definitely gives off the right ambience of a Scandinavian interior however there are more colourful textiles from the likes of Marimekko in the 60s pop vein and the much more decorative Josef Frank from the 40s. Both very different, both very Scandinavian.
3. Materials
Wood, and don’t be afraid to show it. Incorporate cladding on walls and even ceilings to add texture and warmth. Use a grey oil to take the yellow away from woods like pine or oak.
Scandinavian Interior Palace Gate by Staffan Tollgard Clean lines
4. Form
Clean lines from architecture to furniture.
5. Function
A truly Scandinavian interior is very liveable.
6. Furniture
There are such incredible pieces from several manufacturers. From the mid-century period designers like Hans Wegner, Alvar Aalto and Arne Jacobsen stand out and their pieces are just as beautiful today as they were when they were conceived.
7. Put a fireplace in the corner
Scandinavian winters are much harsher than those in the UK and most apartments and houses have an original fire in the living room. Unlike British fireplaces that are usually the focal point of a grand room, these are often very simple columns (many originals from the 19th century are beautifully tiled) and are located in the corner of the room.
8. Be eco-friendly
Swedes have been very quick to add eco-friendly aspects to their houses. Triple-glazing, proper insulation for walls and roofs, ground source heat pumps … all these are fairly standard in Swedish new builds.
9. Add an outside/ inside room
Swedes generally love a connection with the outdoors so you’ll find a balcony or terrace in even the smallest apartments. These are usually decked and used for grilling (Swedes rival Australia and South Africa in the bbq stakes) and entertaining outdoors during the late light nights of the summer.
10. Scale back on accessories
Any Scandinavian would shudder at the sight of an English Victorian interior with little boxes housing the collection of little boxes. Declutter!
Source: Freshome
