Style Report: SCANDINAVIAN
Everyone these days seems to be needing a bit of NORDIC comfort in their lives. Furniture from these nations has a quiet, understated aesthetic. Perhaps as a result of a cultural mind-set that values the collective over the individual, Scandinavia has a particular flair for affordable, functional furniture, made using natural materials and traditional craftsmanship. From prints in fashion to muted and minimal color schemes to simple lines and natural textures, we are craving Scandinavian Style!
"Scandinavian homes have a pure, pared backed style that is centered 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." - freshhome
"If you've been on the internet lately, you'll know that Scandinavian design is having a moment. And it's easy to see why! Traditional Scandinavian style is simple, clean, cheerful, and very achievable for basically any budget. When you think about this style, usually lots of white springs to mind, but the reality is that Scandinavian design can also have lots of vibrant color and fun patterns." - A Beautiful Mess
"The style of Scandinavian interior design has swept the world over with a distinct look hailed in our favorite design magazines and blogs. With a focus on simplicity, minimalism and functionality, this design movement which emerged in the 1950s has added an appreciation for craftsmanship and understated elegance in homes." - Decorilla
Nordic countries now boast some of the best design schools in the world, such as the Bergen Academy of Art and Design in Norway, Finland’s Aalto University and Konstfack University in Sweden. Investment in education (higher education is free in all three countries) seems to be paying off. “Interest in Scandinavian design has grown due to a new wave of creative energy from young Nordic designers,” says Nina Bruun, designer and product developer for Muuto. “Their designs are innovative, yet continue Scandinavian traditions: functional, honest and produced to the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship, combined with an egalitarian aim of affordability.” - the Guardian
"Scandinavian style has a long history, traditionally marked by simplicity, bright whites, natural wood tones, folk style ornamentation, and color washed furnishings and trims. Hues of medium blues, bright reds, and pleasant greens, pinks, and yellows are common throughout Scandinavian design. In old Dutch homes, folks used to build their beds into warm, closet-like spaces, and to save space, would hang spindle-backed chairs on the walls when they weren't being used. The modern version of Dutch and Scandinavian design isn't always about efficiency and space-saving solutions, though it is still both practical and beautiful. A lot of modern, Scandinavian-style homes showcase a mix of the traditional style of almost rustic simplicity alongside the sleek designs of forward-thinking designers who emerged in the 20th Century." - A Beautiful Mess
"With as little as seven daylight hours in winter months, the way lighting is used in design is paramount to typical Scandinavian interior design. It is a life source. Interiors have several types of lighting for adequate and mood building illumination. Usually modern teetering on industrial in style. Candle light is also a must, adding a touch of whimsy and glow to a space. Cafes have votives at all hours, while residences keep candelabras lit on dining tables and window sills." - Decorilla
I could not have a discussion about creating Scandinavian spaces without bringing up the word "hygge." Hard to explain and even harder to pronounce, the Danish word 'hygge' (pronounced 'hooga') translates roughly to 'cosiness'.
"Hygge goes far in illuminating the Danish soul. In essence, hygge means creating a warm atmosphere and enjoying the good things in life with good people. The warm glow of candlelight is hygge. Friends and family – that’s hygge too. There's nothing more hygge than sitting round a table, discussing the big and small things in life. Perhaps hygge explains why the Danes are the happiest people in the world?" - VisitDenmark
If your making a list of all things Scandinavian, be sure to add these items:
* White, White, White
* Gray Walls
* Pops of Blue (a Nordic favorite - think "Copenhagen Blue")
* Copper and Rose Gold
* Wood Folding Chairs * Potted Cacti
* Feathers
* Graphic Calendars
* Big Paper Lanterns
* Monochrome Artwork
* Slatted Walls
* Black & White Stripes
* Black Tape as Decor
* Tents/Teepees (see my blog about this trend)
* Lots of Natural Light
"They're back! Those retro oranges, browns, avocado greens and harvest golds that we've joked about for several decades are making a return in contemporary Scandinavian designs. And the fact is, they have a lot going for them when it comes to making a comfortable home out of a small place. Bold geometric floral prints have been an essential ingredient in Swedish textile design for generations -- and for good reason. The brilliant colors and eye-popping patterns bring sunshine into rooms that are typically dark for a good part of the year." - Christine Brun/Small Spaces
"Marimekko textiles of Finland feature exciting designs that often take a form from nature and turn it into a geometric-looking pattern. The main advantage of the look in fabrics and in furnishings is simplicity of line and minimal shapes. This actually suits diminutive rooms and tends not to overpower compact spaces." - Christine Brun/Small Spaces
The latest architecture and design book, Northern Delights, poses the eternal question of what would go into the ultimate dream house. While they imagine the architecture might be Italian, the furniture Japanese, and the garden of British design, they agree wholeheartedly that the interior should be left to the Scandinavians. The Scandinavians are longstanding leaders in a timeless, spare, and streamlined aesthetic unafraid to mix in bold color or the occasional touch of whimsy.
If you love this style but aren't yet ready to make the switch in your home, try playing around with it on a smaller scale - LITERALLY SMALLER. See how this blogger transforms a dollhouse cast-off into a Scandinavian dream home!
