Our Take on Scandinavian Architecture and Design

According to denmark.dk, Danish design is about “simplicity, functionality, and elegance—these are the basic aspects of Danish design. Nature is often part of the inspiration, and sustainability is key.” These aspects are similar to our way of thinking and how we’ve designed + built California homes all these years. Wherever possible, we incorporate clean lines, indoor-outdoor living, natural materials and so on. No surprise we have an affinity for Scandinavian design sensibilities.

Scandinavian architecture and design became popular in the 1940s and 1950s. Many prominent architects, who also crossed over into other areas of design (furniture, interiors, fashion), hail from this region such as Danish architects Arne Jacobsen and Finn Juhl. Swedish architect Léonie Geisendorf was an apprentice to Le Corbusier. She started an architecture firm with her husband in 1950, and in 1957, she was solely responsible for the company’s Swedish operations, taking on many large-scaled commercial projects.

Danish design has noticeably gained momentum again in the last few years. Dezeen’s latest Lookbook (see photos above) features classic and contemporary Danish design. Their photo-driven article features spaces that show how Danish design is rooted in minimalism but can still be warm and inviting. The popularity of this design movement might also be attributed to how it’s a cohesive blend of traditional and contemporary aesthetics with an emphasis on functional elements being beautiful.

At the start of one of our projects, our client asked how his home can be more modern looking but work with the surrounding traditional homes in the neighborhood. Abeer suggested that he look at photos of Scandinavian architecture and design. He loved it and said to move in that direction. We have drawn inspiration from Scandinavian design elements for other projects, and clients have been really receptive due to its timeless quality.

We’d like to summarize by citing a few sentences from 3daysofdesign, an annual event to celebrate Danish design—the next one is slated for June 8th-10th of 2022 in Copenhagen. “There are moments in life that go beyond the ordinary, that add depth and dimension to our existence. Whether it’s art, music or another form of expression, each moment is like a gift…The same is true with design. While functional design makes everyday life easier, beautiful design makes your heart beat faster.”

Images in the quadrant photo above are from Dezeen’s Lookbook. Clockwise from top left: Interior Design Magdalena Keck, photo by Jeff Cate; Architect Knud Holscher, Interior Design by Staffan Tollgard Studio; Norm Architects; Designer David Thulstrup, photo by Eric Petschek. To view the rest of Dezeen’s Lookbook, click here.