We are interior design junkies and find ourselves scrolling Pinterest for what feels like hours at a time ogling other people’s perfectly staged rooms. One style we simply can’t get enough of? Scandinavian. Now some of you might be familiar with this type of design, but if you’re not, it’s a style that incorporates simplicity and functionality to create a super cozy, super aesthetically pleasing room. If you’ve ever been to an IKEA, then you know exactly what we’re talking about. As most of us know there is a big difference between seeing a beautiful room on Pinterest versus trying to recreate something similar, so if Scandinavian is right up your alley, but you aren’t sure where to start, we’ve come up with a few tips to help you achieve full hygge.
The name of the game: minimize. Think clean lines, space to move around, and creating a sense of calm. So first things first, you’ll want to declutter, but the goal isn’t to have nothing, but rather just enough. Remember that functionality is another key player in creating the look.
(image via: own in naples)
Create a cozy ambiance. Lightning is another element that stands out when looking at perfectly Scandanavian-inspired rooms. Having several different types of lighting around ensures that the vibes are cozy and the mood is lifted.
Color scheming. Colors used in Scandanavian styled rooms are typically colors that create both calm and warmth such as gray and white, then working in pops of darker, warm hues such as golden yellow or deep cranberry.
(image via: milk and confetti)
Become one with nature. Historically natural resources in Scandinavia have been scarce, which is why now Scandinavians have a deep appreciation for all things nature-related, and that appreciation can be seen within the rooms of their home with details such as houseplants, natural textiles, jute, burlap, and more.
Remember earlier when we mentioned hygge? Well, hygge is a Danish word that refers to being cozy, so when we say you’ll “create hygge” this simply means you’ll create a certain amount of coziness within the room. Sometimes minimalism is associated with being cold, but Scandinavian style couldn’t be farther from “cold”. To create hygge you’ll incorporate some of your favorite comfort objects such as candles, soft blankets, and overstuffed pillows.
(image via: watt pad)
Step lightly. Changing the flooring may be a bit of a stretch for some of us, but if this is an option for you and you’re fully committed to the Scandanavian look, then you gotta get with the light hardwood floors. Another option? Whitewashing. But again, this is a big devotion, so don’t be afraid to work with what you’ve got.