What is Scandinavian Design?

Scandinavian design is about so much more than furniture; from electronics to fashion, architecture to interior design, Nordic design, and especially elements of Scandinavian minimalism, have found their way into every aspect of our lives. But what does Scandinavian design actually mean?

Scandinavian design is characterized by a minimal, clean approach that seeks to combine functionality with beauty. Its focus is on simple lines and light spaces, devoid of clutter. These principles extend to all areas of design, from architecture to electronics, but it’s most commonly used to describe interior design, including furniture, textiles, ceramics, and lighting. Typically, there is nothing superfluous about Scandinavian design; it strips back the unnecessary, showcasing the essential elements of any product. The most-used Scandinavian colors are neutral and monochromatic – bright, warm whites with black and tan – with pops of color added used as accents. Plush pinks, gray-blues, and colors rooted in nature – like sage – are the most popular in Scandinavian design. This clean but warm theme, alongside the calming nature of a large, light-filled space without any clutter, is partly why Scandinavian design is so popular. This sort of Nordic minimalism allows people to invite peace into their home without creating a space that is uninviting or cold. It is full of vitality without being chaotic.

Why is Scandinavian design important?

A guiding principle of Scandinavian design is to establish harmony with one’s environment and to create things made to last. It seeks to compliment the art of living well by promoting a simple home environment that is filled with quality items and enhances an unencumbered lifestyle devoid of excess consumerism. In this way it’s both important for an individual, as a home environment that encourages a life well lived is an increasingly important counter to the pressures of modern life, and for the planet, as it challenges rampant consumerism and deepens our connection to nature.

Scandinavian Furniture, Lighting, and Home Decoration

Scandinavian design is minimal, so the few pieces in the room have got to make it count, which is why so much emphasis is put on items like the humble chair. Craftsmanship and timeless design are likely to be found in any item in a Scandinavian room. In every room there should be multiple light sources, ranging from the warm, low light of a candle to the bright overhead glow of a ceiling light. Scandinavian design seeks to spread light as effectively as possible without creating a harsh atmosphere. Poul Henningsen’s distinctive lamp designs are an excellent example. The designer looked for a solution to spread the bulb’s light as widely as possible without the glare being visible. This resulted in the elegant floral shape of his lamp, with each petal shape softening and spreading the brightness of the bulb. Home goods create a perfect balance between minimalism and feeling relaxed.

Scandinavian design differences between the countries

Although it may originate from one group, there are subtle differences between the Scandinavian design coming from each country. Norwegian design can be described as less style-conscious than its Scandinavian neighbors. Its designs offer a quirky mix of cutting-edge, modernist, and historical design. Sweden stays muted in colors but also in character. Sticking to pale tones and nothing too loud. A distinguishing feature of Swedish design over the years is the prioritization of efficiency; an ethos that its designers successfully embrace. Perhaps as a way of encouraging hygge, Danish design can be more playful than its Scandinavian neighbors, as it welcomes tonal shades and the odd pop of color. Danish design has also been heavily influenced by the German Bauhaus School and the country’s special relationship with Japan.

How does Scandinavian design differ from mid-modern century

The two are often conflated and used interchangeably, but there are crucial differences between the styles. While there is a great deal of overlap, mid-modern century is an altogether darker style that focuses less on light. It’s typically used to describe Modernist design from the 1940s-1960s.