Scandi Home Design: How to Decorate Your Property
Scandi design is all about creating spaces that feel calm, functional and effortlessly stylish. With an emphasis on simplicity, natural materials and a light, airy atmosphere, it’s no wonder this design style has become a popular choice for homes looking to balance modern living with a cosy, welcoming environment.
In this guide, we’ll explore how you can bring the Scandi style into your own home. From choosing the right colours to selecting furniture and incorporating textures, we’ll help you transform your space into a serene, Scandinavian-inspired haven.
What is Scandi home design?
Scandi home design originates from the Scandinavian countries of Sweden, Denmark, Norway, Finland and Iceland. The style as we know it first emerged in the early 20th century and gained international popularity in the 1950s. At its core, Scandi design is about simplicity and function without sacrificing beauty. Interiors are typically light, airy and uncluttered, with every element chosen for a purpose.
This design style is also heavily influenced by the Scandinavian lifestyle, where long, dark winters require interiors that maximise light and promote a sense of wellbeing. As a result, you’ll often find large windows, minimalist layouts and cosy details that embody the Danish concept of hygge, a feeling of comfort, warmth and contentment at home.
The key elements of Scandi interiors
Scandi interiors are built on a few core principles that combine form, function and warmth – here’s what to look out for.
Neutral colour palettes
A hallmark of Scandi design is its soft, neutral colour scheme. Whites, greys, creams and pale beiges form the foundation of Scandi interiors, creating a calm and cohesive backdrop that enhances natural light and opens up the space. These tones are often layered to add depth without disrupting the minimalist aesthetic.
While the palette is understated, it’s not cold or clinical. Warmer neutrals and subtle variations in tone help maintain a sense of comfort and cosiness. You might also see occasional muted accents, such as dusty blues, sage greens or pale blush tones, to introduce interest without overwhelming the room.
Natural materials
Scandi design embraces the beauty of natural materials, with wood, stone, and metal used to create an earthy, grounded atmosphere. These natural materials not only bring a connection to the outdoors but also highlights craftsmanship and sustainability, which are both important aspects of Scandinavian design.
Wood, in particular, plays a central role, and is often used for flooring, furniture and even wall panelling. Light woods such as oak, ash and pine are common and contribute to the airy and serene vibe that Scandi interiors are known for.
Stone and marble can also make an appearance, particularly in surfaces such as countertops or accent pieces, offering texture and durability. Leather, wool and linen are frequently incorporated through furniture upholstery, throws and cushions, adding tactile warmth and comfort to minimalist spaces.
Clean lines and simplicity
One of the defining features of Scandi design is its emphasis on clean lines and simplicity. Furniture and décor follow a minimalist approach, with sleek, unobtrusive shapes that focus on function and form. The goal is to create spaces that feel open and uncluttered, with every piece serving a purpose without overwhelming the room.
This simplicity extends beyond furniture to architectural features, such as internal doors, windows and shelving, which are often streamlined and free from excessive detailing. Straightforward silhouettes and practical designs dominate the style, ultimately bringing a sense of calm to the space.
Cosiness and hygge touches
At the heart of Scandi design is the Danish concept of hygge, a term that encapsulates the feeling of cosiness, warmth and contentment. Whilst the overall aesthetic remains minimalist, Scandi interiors are designed to evoke comfort and create an inviting atmosphere where people can relax and unwind.
To achieve this, soft textures play a crucial role. Layering plush throws, woollen blankets and comfy pillows on sofas and chairs will instantly add a sense of warmth and comfort. Natural lighting is key, too – there should be an emphasis on adding soft, ambient light through candles, pendant lamps and floor lamps, which help make the space feel intimate and peaceful.
Incorporating plants, tactile textiles and carefully chosen accessories, such as ceramic mugs, soft rugs or handmade décor, all enhance the feeling of hygge. These thoughtful touches bring character and warmth to otherwise simple, uncluttered spaces, making them feel lived-in and genuinely welcoming.
How to decorate your home in Scandi style
To successfully bring Scandi design into your home, it’s important to consider how each element works together to create a harmonious, functional space. Below are some considerations to help you decorate your home in the Scandi style.
Choose the right colour scheme
We’ve discussed how neutral tones are essential for Scandi interiors, so we’ll look at how you can use these colours effectively throughout your home. The key is to stick with the light, airy foundation of whites, greys and soft beiges, by ensuring these hues dominate larger areas such as walls and flooring. These colours will help open-up the space and enhance natural light, which is crucial in Scandinavian interiors.
Once your base colours are in place, you can consider introducing accents with subtle pastels or muted earth tones like sage green or dusty blue. These will add a layer of depth and interest while remaining in line with the calm, minimalist aesthetic.
Remember, consistency is vital. Whether you’re adding colour through soft furnishings, artwork or decorative objects, make sure the palette flows seamlessly from room to room. The aim is to create a cohesive, serene environment where every detail complements the next, allowing the natural materials and textures to be the focal point of the design.
Let in natural light
Maximising natural light is a fundamental aspect of Scandi design, as it helps create bright, airy spaces that feel open and welcoming. Scandinavian homes are often designed with large windows and an emphasis on openness to let as much natural light into the space as possible.
To enhance the flow of light, keep window treatments simple and unobtrusive. You should opt for light, sheer curtains or blinds that allow light to filter in while offering privacy. It’s best to avoid heavy, dark fabrics that can block light and make a room feel smaller or darker. In spaces where light is limited, you could add mirrors or reflective surfaces to bounce light around the room and create the illusion of a larger, brighter space.
Furniture and layout choices
In Scandi design, furniture is carefully selected for both its functionality and aesthetic simplicity. The focus is on clean, minimal pieces that serve a practical purpose without overpowering the space. You could look for low-profile furniture with simple, straight lines – think sleek sofas, streamlined coffee tables and functional storage units. These pieces should feel light and uncluttered, to contribute to the sense of openness in the room.
When arranging your furniture, aim to create a balanced, flow-friendly layout that encourages easy movement throughout the space. You should try to avoid overcrowding, as Scandi interiors thrive on minimalism and the idea of ‘breathing room.’
You could also consider multi-functional furniture, such as ottomans with hidden storage or extendable dining tables, as these will help to maintain the minimalist aesthetic whilst ensuring the space remains practical for daily use.
Textures and soft furnishings
While Scandi design embraces minimalism, it also places a strong emphasis on creating a warm and inviting atmosphere through textures and soft furnishings. The key is to balance simplicity with comfort by layering different materials that add tactile warmth without overwhelming the space.
As we’ve discussed, it’s essential to include natural fibres such as wool, linen and cotton. Soft throws, cosy wool blankets and plush cushions are all perfect for creating that sought-after hygge feel, making your home inviting and comfortable. Rugs in neutral tones or soft textures also play a vital role in defining areas and adding warmth, particularly to wooden or stone floors.
When choosing soft furnishings, aim for simplicity and subtlety in the patterns. Look for geometric shapes or simple, organic designs that complement the clean lines of your furniture. The textures themselves, whether a knitted throw, a velvet cushion, or a woven rug, should add an extra layer of comfort and luxury to the minimalist setting.
Internal doors and wood finishes
Internal doors and wood finishes play an important role in maintaining the Scandi style’s clean, minimalist aesthetic whilst also adding warmth and texture. Natural wood is often the material of choice due to its timeless appeal and ability to bring a touch of nature inside.
For internal doors, opt for simple, unadorned designs with smooth surfaces and straight lines. Whether you choose light woods such as oak doors or ash, you should aim to keep the design as streamlined as possible and avoid ornate detailing or heavy moulding. Flush doors or those with subtle panel designs often work best in achieving the minimalist look typical of Scandi interiors.
Wood finishes should be light and natural to complement the overall neutral colour palette of the room. Natural wood grain can add a beautiful texture that contrasts with the smoother surfaces of walls and furniture. If you prefer a more modern twist, consider matte black doors or dark wood, which can create an elegant contrast while still maintaining a clean, understated look.
JB Kind has a huge range of interior doors in a variety of styles, perfect for your Scandi interiors. Download our brochure or contact us to find out more.
