Scandinavian Style

Since the beginning of the 20th century, Scandinavian-style homes have become popular. 

The confederation of Sweden, Denmark, Finland, and Iceland is situated in the Northern region. In these locations, it generally appeals to homes to choose a minimalistic façade designed to keep the cold out while maintaining the light sources throughout the homes. 

Meanwhile, the interior of these homes is decorated with comfortable fabrics, sculpted well-chosen pieces, and tasteful touches of practicality. 

Interior Design of Scandinavian Homes

Because the temperature of this region runs extremely cold, the homes are designed as a reprieve to the outside world. They are the epitome of warmth, inviting relaxation, and keep the clutter at bay. Here are some of the design features found in most Scandinavian homes:

• The Use of Natural Light: Since the winter sun is rare and hits at a lower angle than the summer sun, the homes are designed to bring as much light into the rooms as possible. The architects create these homes with well-placed windows that are often large and spacious. Rooms are brightened by natural light, so they look bigger and more inviting than darker rooms that give the impression of being closed off.
• Neutral Colors: Since natural light is minimal, the hues inside these rooms are kept bright and light shades of white, cream, beige, and pleasing hues of yellow to let the light in. These neutral hues also pay tribute to the winter land of the Northern region.
• The Cozy Factor: Nothing is more restful in a home than a warm, cozy ambiance paired with pillows, throw blankets, ample bedding, and other plush accents that encourage relaxation. 
• Textures: The Scandinavians are pictured in knitwear and jackets because they preserve warmth very well. Soft fabrics and woven blankets that you can sink in to add texture and contrast against the neutral color scheme of the homes.
• A Handpicked Selection of Pieces: As the Nordic style becomes popular over time, the Danish word “hygge” accompanies it. The phrase refers to the warm, cozy mood of a home arranged sparingly with clean lines, keeping practicality in mind. Clutter is bound to increase your stress, so don’t add extra furniture to fill up space after meeting your needs. Handpick a few of your favorite items and display them in your home. 

Exterior Style of Scandinavian Homes

The exterior of these homes echoes the functionality and strength of Viking longhouses that used wood and stone to build to survive harsh environmental conditions. In modern times, the architecture of Scandinavian homes pays homage to these elements of the past. 

• Natural Wood and Stone: The benefits of wood and stone are timeless, sturdy, and excellent materials to keep the cold out. The Scandinavian style caters to homes made of wooden structuring as wood is easily obtained from the dense northern forests.
• Blending with Nature: In the past, our predecessors built not only out of necessity but also learned to thrive in the northern landscape. Buildings were created to honor and blend with the stunning green landscape rather than just out from it. A neutral palette of earthy tones allows the homes to do that without becoming an eyesore. Wood-based homes in the Nordic region prove that one can stay within their land to find inspiration for beautiful structures.
• Black with Neutral Colors: Black color absorbs light and radiation. Therefore, it is not uncommon for these homes to have a black or dark exterior paired with a light, earthy tone for contrast. It absorbs heat from the sun and keeps the homes warm inside. 

Furniture Style of Scandinavian Homes

The furniture of these Scandinavian homes is simple, practical, helpful, and clutter-free. 

It caters to the openness of a room created by natural lighting and a neutral color palette. 

• Utilitarian: Scandinavian home arrangements have a minimalistic look, yet they still achieve a warm, cozy, and homey look. You want to make the furniture in your room count, so start by displaying a few celebrated pieces, plush bedding, and throw pillows to set the right mood.
• Cozy: Your living space and furniture should invite you to sink into it without worrying about ruining them. Comfortable and sturdy pieces are ideal and can be arranged in layers of throw blankets and plush pillows to make them warm and inviting. Opt for simple, comfortable, practical furniture with minimum wood, metal, or plastic ornamentation. Invest in substantial layers for your couch and bed to help keep you toasty and warm even in the middle of winter. 
• Sculpted: People spend hours at IKEA because it’s always a good idea to browse through their collection of home interiors. At IKEA, you will find furniture of exciting and unexpected shapes, whether a chair with a curved back or a chandelier straight out of a Dada exhibit. Adding a few handpicked items to your home can add a touch of contrast and interest to improve your living experience. This contrast curates a room with layered styles, making the room’s neutral hues pop.

To purchase the book:

Go to   Amazon.com…..Search for ‘66 Styles for Interior Design’….Volume 4 O-W