10 Key Elements in Scandinavian Homes

In this post I want to discuss 10 Key elements you will find in Scandinavian Homes and what characterizes the Scandinavian home decor style.

If you feel drawn to Scandinavian Nordic homes, and love bright minimilst yet cozy and warm interiors then this post is for you! I want to discuss how exactly to achieve this home decor style and share some of my favourite inspirations with you!

You might also enjoy my post on “How to achieve a Scandinavian Kids Room”.

Where does the Scandinavian style originate from?
Gaining Popularity
Key elements in Scandinavian Home interiors
1. Minimalism
2. Natural Light
3. Neutral Colour Palette
4. Hygge
5. Natural Materials
6. Plants
7. Textures
8. Practicality
9. Soft lighting
10. Modern Vintage Mix
Conclusion
My favourite home finds for a Scandinavian home interior style

(This post contains affiliate links to Amazon and LTK that I make a small commission from with no extra costs added to you.)

Where does the Scandinavian style originate from?

The Scandinavian home decor style originates from the Nordic countries Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Finland and Iceland. The design is influenced by the harsh climates and minimal daylight hours therefor focusing on having bright, clean and cozy interiors.

Gaining Popularity

The Scandinavian Home style got a lot of attention in the mid 20th centuries because of the work of designers and architects like Alvar Aalto, Arne Jacobsen, and Hans Wegner who helped shape this particular design style.

This design style is still favoured by many in todays time and has gotten more popularity through the home and furnishing store IKEA!

Key elements in Scandinavian Home interiors

1. Minimalism

Scandinavian homes are known for their lack of clutter, clean lines and bright spaces. It is all about having a “home” for every item, and having decluttered spaces so can be relaxed and at peace at home.

2. Natural Light

Scandinavian Homes are designed to maximize natural light with large windows and minimal window coverings.

3. Neutral Colour Palette

Not only is natural a key factor but also a bright and neutral colour palette. Colours like white, grey, beige are popular choices when it comes to designing homes.

4. Hygge

Hygge is a danish word and it means coziness and contentment. The concept is having a warm and inviting home and achieving this with soft lighting, comfortable furniture and plush textiles.

5. Natural Materials

Natural materials like wood, wool and leather are a popular choice and often seen throughout Scandinavian homes.

6. Plants

Greenery and plants in the home is a common practice in Scandinavian Design. They are used to add freshness and a touch of green to the home!

7. Textures

Scandinavian Homes are popular for their love of textures in the home, textiles like textured rugs, knitted throws, sheepskin rugs, woven baskets or plush throw pillows.

8. Practicality

Whether is furniture or kitchens, Scandinavians love it to be functional and stylish! They are known to have smart storage solutions while it being viably appealing. Ikea anyone?

9. Soft lighting

If you can’t tell already Scandinavians are huge on lighting and love soft lighting throughout the home. Floor lamps, table lamps, pendant lighting or other lighting are popular to provide soft ambiance atmosphere.

10. Modern Vintage Mix

A blend of modern and vintage elements like modern furniture with vintage pieces or vice versa is popular among the Nordic regions, resulting in a charming and unique space!