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Spotlight Styles: Scandinavian Cool
August 10th 2015
British homes and their interiors have long turned their gaze to other countries for design inspiration — but right now, it is the Scandinavian look that is rocking the interiors world.
What is it?
Three words sum up this look nicely — simplicity, practicality and beauty. Yet, despite the often clean minimalism that seems to go hand in hand with the look, this is in no way a cold or clinical look — far from it.
The inclusion of plenty of natural materials – such as wood – and a comfy, lived-in, slightly creased and at times vintage look ensure that the Scandinavian home is one that oozes warmth.
The Danish, Swedish and Norwegians all place a great deal of importance on well-being and love bright, fresh and airy interior schemes, so this plays a big part in the overall feel of Scandinavian interiors too.
What should I include?
Just as with most other interior schemes, the Scandinavian look is not fixed in any one particular era. Instead, it displays ideas that have been incorporated over the years, from rustic and traditional, through folk-inspired patterns, mid-century modern, retro furniture and right up to crisp and sleek contemporary minimalism.
Perhaps more than any other ingredient in successful Scandinavian interiors, wood is an absolute must-have — be that wooden furniture, whitewashed wooden floors or timber cladding on the walls.
In fact, natural materials as a whole are an essential part of this look, from natural linens and cottons to floor coverings such as sisal, seagrass and coir.
And furniture?
Wooden furniture is a staple of any authentic Scandinavian home. Including at least one or two iconic pieces from Scandinavian designers – or those at least paying homage to them – is one of the best ways to get this look right.
Think Arne Jacobsen or Hans Wegner — both are perfect examples of the simple yet eye-catching shapes of mid 19th century.
But if these stretch the budget a little, look to more modern designers specialising in retro furniture which has overtones of these pieces.
Retro coffee tables are the ideal way to bring this look together — particularly those in a pale wood finish. Take a look at the range of retro coffee tables from Zespoke —their Pippy Oak Matt finish or Natural Oak Matt are spot on finishes.
Elsewhere, white, off-white or grey sofas and armchairs fit the Scandinavian theme well, and choosing those with relaxed, loose-covers that can be removed for washing means they need not be impractical.
How about accessories?
A predominantly white background, with hints of grey and a smattering of black here and there, mean it is important to ensure the look remains cosy.
A woodburning stove is a staple in most Scandinavian homes and if you want to be true to the look, then it should be in your home too.
Crafty, embroidered cushions and folksy handmade rugs, retro or low-hung pendant lighting (along with retro pieces of statement furniture to bring the look up-to-date), white or pale wood shutters or Venetian blinds at the windows and lots of home comforts on display, such as faux fur throws and knitted or scrubbed wooden items dotted around will finish the whole look of nicely.
Then all there is to do is sit back and wait for the snow to fall (or, more likely. rain…)
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