From simple and budgetary ideas to cardinal and spectacular solutions.
The Scandinavian style appeared at the beginning of the last century as a logical development of post-war world trends. At that time, they did not think about beauty: the furnishings had to differ primarily in functionality.
Scandinavian style is often called minimalist, but this is not entirely true. The simplicity of the lines is here and there, but minimalism implies a limited amount of detail and good lighting. Scandinavians rarely live in houses with large windows: in a cool climate, this would be irrational. Nordic interiors are cozy and full of little things dear to the heart, but at the same time functional.
1. Arrange the candles
The Scandinavian tradition of lighting candles often appeared for a reason: in a cold climate, it is important to make the home environment as warm and cozy as possible. Just remember that candles should never be blown out, use a special flame arrester.
2. Hang posters on the walls
The most Scandinavian way to change the mood of the interior on a budget and quickly is to decorate the walls with posters, prints or postcards. A reproduction of an abstract artist, a poster with an inspiring inscription, and black and white photographs of loved ones will go into business. Posters can be easily updated if desired.
3. Lay out soft throws and blankets
Scandinavians are not spoiled by hot weather and sunny days, so they love knitted things with all their hearts. Velor, wool, flannel – all this decorates the house and at the same time adds warmth and comfort.
4. Buy a sheepskin rug
A sheep wool rug is a detail without which it is impossible to imagine a Scandinavian interior. Sheepskin can and should be used creatively: for example, wrap a dining chair or lay it in the bathroom. Well, or just put it in the bedroom so that in the early morning you can feel the warm pile under your feet, and not the cold floor.
5. Add color accents
Although the classic Scandinavian interior is primarily about light colors, bright accents are indispensable here. Otherwise, the room will turn out to be too featureless. Anything can act as such a contrasting spot: a rug, a vase or a pillow cover.
6. Fill your home with live plants
Scandinavians love to spend time outdoors, they are kind to nature and want a piece of it to be always present at home. Therefore, in the Nordic interior there is always a place for pots with live plants. Even in the bathroom, just choose those that can withstand high moisture and heat – bamboo, fern, dracaena, tradescantia, anthurium.
7. Use lamps made from natural materials
Nordic lamps are simple, utilitarian and often made from natural materials such as paper or wood. Just be consistent: if you have already decided to decorate the interior in the Scandinavian spirit, you should not hang a baroque chandelier in the room.
8. Don’t forget hanging shelves
Open racks and hanging shelves can be used not only for functional, but also for decorative purposes. This design move is suitable for any room.
For example, the kitchen will be very decorated with neatly arranged seasonings in glass jars, glasses or bright mugs. On the shelves in the living room or bedroom, you can arrange books, paintings or souvenirs brought from travels, and in the bathroom – wicker baskets with bath accessories and your favorite cosmetics in pretty jars.
9. Paint the walls a special white color
Nordic interiors seem very light because of the white walls. But there is a secret here. So that the surface does not look too sterile, the Swedes came up with a special shade – Stockholm white (Stockholmsvit), which is obtained by adding gray and yellow pigments to white paint. It is sometimes compared to the color of an eggshell or ivory. The international formula is S 0502-Y. Report these numbers to any paint manufacturer and they will mix the right shade for you.
And one more trick: if the walls are painted in Stockholm white, the ceiling should be snow-white. This is necessary to reflect and scatter as much daylight as possible.
10. Choose wood floors
As a rule, a Scandinavian house has a wooden floor. Most often – wide parquet in natural shades. But it can also be milky, beige or light gray.