What is Scandi Style? The Basics of Scandinavian Design

Imagine walking into a room that feels calm, inviting, and effortlessly stylish - a space where everything fits perfectly, but nothing feels overdone. That’s the charm of Scandi style. It’s the kind of design that makes you want to kick off your shoes, settle into a cosy sofa, and enjoy the moment.

But what exactly is Scandinavian design, and what makes it so special? Let’s explore its origins, what defines it, and how you can bring a touch of that relaxed, cosy vibe to your home.

Where Does Scandi Style Come From?

Scandinavian style comes from the region of Scandinavia, which consists of the beautiful  countries of Denmark, Norway, and Sweden. 

While it’s common for people to include Finland and Iceland under the Scandinavian umbrella, they’re technically not part of Scandinavia. Instead, Finland and Iceland, along with the Scandinavian countries, are considered Nordic. Despite the difference, all these countries share similar design principles, which is why their styles are often grouped together or leave people curious about the difference between Scandinavian and Nordic design.

These countries have long, dark winters, so their design is all about making the most of natural light and creating spaces that feel warm, bright and inviting. In a place where the outside world can feel cold and harsh, Scandinavian homes became safe havens, filled with simplicity and comfort.

Scandi interior design started to make waves in the early 20th century, but it wasn’t until the 1950s, when post-war innovation was booming and international design exhibitions were taking place, that it truly grabbed global attention. Scandinavian designers showcased their minimalist yet cosy approach to the world, and it quickly caught on for its perfect mix of style and practicality.

Why Has Scandi Style Become So Popular?

It’s no wonder that Scandi style has become such a global phenomenon. The minimalist approach of Scandinavian design, paired with a focus on comfort, makes it perfect for modern living. As more people look to declutter and simplify their homes and lives, Scandi style offers the perfect blend of beauty and function.

There’s also a big emphasis on sustainability, with many Scandinavian designers using natural, durable materials. It’s a design philosophy that resonates today more than ever, especially as more people look for eco-friendly, long-lasting pieces for their homes.

Scandi design is far from just a passing trend. It has a timeless appeal that evolves while staying true to its core values of simplicity and warmth. Its focus on functionality, comfort and sustainability keeps it staying relevant, no matter how interior styles may change. While certain elements may shift with new interior design trends, it’s clear that Scandi design is here to stay.

The Key Elements of Scandinavian Design

So, what makes Scandi style so distinctive? Here are the essential ingredients:

Less Is More

Scandinavian design focuses on simplicity and minimalism, but never at the expense of comfort. The goal is to create spaces that are cosy yet uncluttered. 

Every piece in a Scandi room serves a purpose, from multifunctional furniture, like a coffee table set that can be separated and moved around to create extra surface space when friends come over for coffee, to a stylish yet comfortable chair that’s perfect for lounging. Instead of decorative trinkets, you’ll find practical pieces that blend function with effortless style.

Natural Materials

Wood, wool, and leather are the stars of Scandi interiors, reflecting the Scandinavian love for nature and time spent outdoors. These natural materials bring warmth to any room, especially when paired with soft lighting and cosy textures.

These materials are not only beautiful but also more durable than their man-made counterparts, offering long-lasting quality that brings a timeless feel to your home while saving you money and being kinder to the planet.

A Touch of Hygge

You’ve probably heard of ‘hygge’ - a Danish concept that roughly translates to a sense of cosiness and contentment. 

It’s all about creating a warm, comfortable environment. Think lots of candles, soft blankets, and cushions. Scandi style isn’t just about how a space looks, but how it feels. 

You can easily bring ‘hygge’ to your home by layering your space with cosy textiles like soft rugs and cushions, or set the perfect mood with warm, soft lighting to make the whole room feel inviting and comfortable with stylish lamps.

What Are Scandi Colours?

Scandi interiors are famous for their bright whites and calm, neutral palettes that include beiges and light wood tones. These colours are used to make spaces feel bright and airy, perfect for reflecting natural light, which helps to brighten up rooms and create a sense of space. And while it’s mostly neutrals, don’t be afraid to add a pop of darker tones like charcoal or tan to add contrast without overpowering the room.

By sticking to this light, natural palette, Scandi interiors manage to feel both fresh and timeless - a balance that’s hard to beat.

Bringing Scandi Style Into Your Home

Whether you’re planning a full-on home makeover or just looking to add a few Scandi touches here and there, it’s easier than you think to embrace this style. Start with the basics: declutter your space, focus on functional and comfortable furniture, and opt for quality materials that stand the test of time. 

If you’re just getting started, simple pieces like a wooden coffee table or minimalist bedside tables are a great place to start.

At The Little Green Door, we’ve got a range of beautiful Scandinavian designed pieces for every space, from bedrooms, dining rooms, living rooms and beyond, that are both stylish and functional, so you can bring a touch of that Scandi magic into your home with ease.

Scandi style is more than just a look - it’s a way of life. It’s about creating spaces that are calm, functional, and filled with warmth. By embracing the simplicity of Scandinavian design, you’re not just making your home look good, but also feel good. Whether it’s the minimalist furniture, the natural materials, or the cosy ‘hygge’ touches, Scandi style offers something for everyone.