How to create a modern Scandinavian home on a budget?

23 Apr

scandinavian style home decor and design — Photo: via Homes To Love

Scandinavian design is definitely one of my favourite interior design styles. I particularly like the calming and relaxing vibes it brings. Originating from the European Nordic countries, it focuses on simplicity and minimalism all while being modern and functional. I have to admit, over the years I have developed a thing for Ikea and that’s probably why.

Scandinavian interior design is a very popular style, but you might wonder what it is exactly, what are its characteristics, and how to incorporate it into your home. Well, let’s dive into it, and keep reading as I have also selected some furniture and home décor items to help you bring this style to life.

What is Scandinavian interior design?

Minimalistic style

One of the main features of this interior style is its focus on minimalism and simplicity. If you want to incorporate minimalism into your lifestyle, it doesn’t mean you have to get rid of everything you possess. Take your time and only keep the items you really need or the ones that mean something to you. The goal here is to create an uncluttered, organised and open space. Which brings us to our second feature.

Bright open spaces

Scandinavian interiors are characterized by bright open spaces filled with natural light for a perfect combination of indoor and outdoor. The lines are clean and crisp, the design is simple and functional and the space is open and airy. If you have limited natural light, paint your walls in a shade of white to brighten up the space, and add table and floor lamps. You can also add a mirror as it will help reflect light and give the impression of a brighter and bigger space.

scandinavian interior design style living room — Photo: via Simone Polk

Combination of natural textures

Although minimalism is important in Scandinavian interiors, what is as crucial or maybe even more, is to bring warmth and cosiness to the space. This will make all the difference in your Scandi interior. In order to break the cold and uninviting vibes that can come from a minimalist style, you can add various textures and fabrics with your soft furnishings and home décor items, such as wool, linen, cotton, jute or sheepskin. This will help create a warm and welcoming interior.

What about colours?

Warm neutral colours will be your go-to for this interior style. When choosing your interior colour palette, think about the landscape outside. For your walls, opt for a neutral tone like a warm white, a soft grey or a pale beige. This will give you the opportunity to bring pops of colour through your furniture and accessories, and to create contrast and visual interest. You can do so by adding touches of blues, sage or dark greens, warm tans, terracotta or black to remind of the landscape’s colours. With smaller items, don’t hesitate to use bright bold colours or prints to bring more personality and a sense of energy and life into your space.

scandinavian interior design style colour palette

Get familiar with the Hygge concept

Hygge is a Danish concept, very important in Denmark, that has become quite popular the past few years. It is based on a feeling of cosiness, well-being and happiness that is central to Danish people’s lives. To create a hygge mood at home, you can add anything that makes you feel cozy and warm such as candles, throw blankets or cushions. However, don’t buy items just to be trendy because that would be the antonym of hygge. It is an atmosphere, a lifestyle, more than a home décor trend. It is all about the simple things in life that bring you joy and happiness.

A sleek Scandinavian look on a budget

Furniture selection

If you want to create a modern Scandinavian interior, pale wood and simple but functional design are key features to look for while shopping for furniture. Here is a selection of Scandinavian style furniture: