Scandinavian style is more than just a trend: it’s a true decorating philosophy that champions simplicity, light, and comfort. Originating in the Nordic countries, this interior design style has won over homes worldwide thanks to its clean aesthetic, natural materials, and ability to create warm spaces despite its minimalism. In this article, we’ll guide you through the essential elements of Scandinavian style, how to incorporate it into your home, and the trends to watch for in 2025.
Scandinavian style a timeless trend
Scandinavian design continues to appeal to those who appreciate bright, minimalist, and welcoming interiors. Originating in Northern Europe, particularly Sweden, Norway, Denmark, and Finland, this style emphasizes a clean, functional, and natural aesthetic. More than just a trend, Scandinavian design embodies a true philosophy of life where comfort, light, and well-being are central to interior design.
The fundamentals of Scandinavian style
1. Light and natural colors
Scandinavian style relies on a palette of neutral, calming, and luminous colors. The goal? To maximize light, precious in Nordic countries with their long, dark winters.
- Dominant colors: white, beige, pearl gray
- Accent colors: pale blue, sage green, terracotta, and black in subtle touches
- Classic combination: white walls + light wood flooring + grey or blue textiles
This choice of colors works equally well in an apartment as in a house, where the aim is often to create a soft and bright atmosphere in living spaces.
2. A soft, omnipresent light
Natural light is essential in Scandinavian design. Curtains are light, often made of linen or washed cotton, so as not to block the light. In the evening, artificial light takes over with lamps that create a soft ambiance.
- Rattan or metal pendant lights
- Floor lamps with a clean design
- Candles (widely used in hygge culture)
3. Wood as the quintessential material
Wood is omnipresent in Scandinavian decor. It brings warmth and authenticity to an often very minimalist interior. Light-colored woods are preferred:
- Oak, birch, pine, and sh
- In parquet flooring, furniture, and decorative objects
- Matte, raw, or slightly whitened finishes
Scandinavian room-by-room decorating how to do it?
The Scandinavian living room: cozy minimalism
The Scandinavian living room is the perfect illustration of “less is more”:
- Straight or corner sofa with clean lines (light grey, beigee or pastel blue)
- Round coffee table in light wood
- Open shelves in wood or matte black metal
- Berber rug or rug with black and white geometric patterns
- Pile of cushions and throws
The overall effect remains understated yet still warm, thanks to the natural materials (wool, linen, cotton, rattan).
The Scandinavian bedroom softness and rest
In a Scandinavian-style bedroom, the aim is functional simplicity:
- Low bed with wooden headboard
- Washed linen bed linen
- Minimalist bedside tables
- Pendant lights or wall lights
A few framed pictures on the wall, a houseplant, and a plush rug complete the look. Here again, white reigns supreme, with touches of pastel shades for a soothing atmosphere. These principles also apply to a family home: the Scandinavian bedroom becomes a true haven conducive to rest, regardless of the inhabitants’ age.
Scandinavian cuisine design and practicality
Scandinavian cuisine is designed to be clear, organized, and efficient:
- White or light wood furniture, without visible handles
- Backsplash in white subway tiles or polished concrete
- Open shelves with visible dishes
- Aromatic herbs on the worktop
The decor is minimalist, yet designed to be both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Materials such as stainless steel and glass are also featured. In addition to their attractive appearance, these kitchens are often economical: depending on the options chosen (storage, materials, integrated appliances), their price can vary significantly, making them a flexible solution suitable for all budgets.
The Scandinavian bathroom: zen freshness
Nordic bathrooms are small, but well optimized:
- Light-colored tiles or wood-effect tiles
- Round ceramic washbasin
- Round mirror with a wooden or metal frame
- Simple accessories (wooden soap dish, woven baskets)
Fern-type plants or pilea can be added for a refreshing green touch.
What are the key decorative objects of the Scandinavian style?
1. Icons of Nordic Design
Major Scandinavian design brands are recognized worldwide:
- Muuto
- Ferm Living
- Norman Copenhagen
- Hay
- Iittala
Ceramic objects, chairs with compass legs, graphic lamps, or minimalist clocks: Scandinavian decoration celebrates simple and durable forms.
2. Soft textiles
Textiles are key to comfort in Scandinavian decor. Choosing textiles is also an effective way to add personality to your interior without changing your furniture. It’s a simple, inexpensive solution that’s easy to update with the seasons.
- Cushions with graphic patterns
- Natural wool throws
- Berber-style rug in jute or wool
- Curtains in cotton or linen voile
It is the accumulation of these materials that creates this cozy atmosphere typical of the north.
3. Plants and natural objects
To avoid an overly clinical effect, Scandinavians always incorporate living elements into their decor:
- Indoor plants (pilea, monstera, sansevieria)
- Terracotta or ceramic vases
- Driftwood, branches, dried flowers
This gives a truly organic and soothing dimension to the interiors. Each selected product – whether it’s a ceramic vase or a woven fiber basket – contributes to the desired organic ambiance.
Scandinavian style is evolving. What trends will there be in 2025?
1. The return of dark wood
While light wood remains dominant, there is a rise in the use of darker woods (walnut, teak) or more sophisticated atmospheres.
2. Japanese influence: the Japandi style
The fusion of Japanese and Scandinavian styles gives birth to Japandi, a blend of Zen purity and warm minimalism.
- Low furniture
- Earthy colors (sand, terracotta, charcoal)
- Raw materials: stone, linen, dark wood
3. Sustainable design
The Scandinavian style of 2025 places even greater emphasis on sustainability:
- Upcycling vintage furniture
- Recycled materials
- Energy-efficient LED lighting
- Locally and artisanally produced
The “less is more” philosophy now includes an essential eco-responsible dimension . Many manufacturers now offer eco-designed Scandinavian products at competitive prices, particularly for furniture and interior decoration in new or renovated homes.
Furthermore, according to the Opcommerce report, based on the National Program for a Circular Economy 2023-2030, the furniture sector is moving towards three key objectives: extending the lifespan of furniture, developing repairability, and increasing the use of recycled materials. These approaches fully align with the spirit of Scandinavian design, which focuses on sustainability, functionality, and simplicity.
How to adopt Scandinavian decor at home?
Practical advice
- Start by declutterin : the Scandinavian style lets the space breathe
- Invest in a few key pieces: sofa, coffee table, pendant light
- Opt for natural materials: avoid plastics, favor wood, wool, linen
- Play with textures: to avoid the monotony of white, vary the materials
- Personalize in moderation graphic posters, handcrafted items, framed photos
If your space is limited, choose a multifunctional table (with extension or integrated drawers), in the pure Scandinavian spirit, combining design and practicality.
