Scandinavian Design Ideas

Scandinavian interior design is inspired by the décor of Norway, Sweden and Denmark. The style first became popular in the 1950s and is currently enjoying a resurgence. Scandinavian home décor emphasizes open space and a minimalist aesthetic. It’s similar to modern design, but it offers more warmth by using plants and natural materials, such as leather, wood, linen and stone.

We'll take you room by room to show you how to incorporate Scandinavian design in your home.

Creating a calm and serene environment is key to Scandinavian-style living rooms, where the emphasis is on neutral colors and a lot of open space. Choose light colors for the walls, such as white, ivory, taupe or light gray.

Furniture
Scandinavian furniture has a simple, minimalist design. Couches and chairs often are upholstered in beige, white, ivory or grey with the frame or legs in white, black or a light wood tone. Console, end and coffee tables can be found in light woods, such as ash, beech, oak and pine.

Textiles
When you're working with neutral tones, it's imperative that you include different tones and interesting textures. Otherwise, it can feel cold and clinical. Bring warmth to your Scandinavian living room with linen curtains and sheers, a boucle chair, a leather couch and accent pillows in wool or cotton. By layering in different materials and textures, you're creating an inviting respite for friends and family.

Home Decor
Keep art and home accents to a minimum and coordinate them with the room’s color scheme. In Scandinavian design, accents should add depth and character rather than demand attention. The living room is also a good place to incorporate a single large, green plant for color.

Flooring
Whether you have carpet or wood floors, they should be in neutral in color. Wide-planked flooring in a light wood color feels simple and warm. Layer in cozy rugs in wool, jute or sisal.

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Once again, simplicity and textures are key to Scandinavian design. In this image, a bright and lovely dining room gets a sophisticated update in a few simple steps.

Paint
A soft, neutral palette sets the scene in any Scandinavian-inspired room. Try incorporating soft whites, creams, taupes and light grays. In this dining room, the walls are painted in a soft, neutral greige, providing a simple backdrop for the furniture.

Furniture
In Scandinavian dining furniture, the lines are sleek and simple. A black wood dining table is striking against the pale greige walls. Curved dining chairs upholstered in boucle and framed in black iron complement the table. A black buffet with glass doors is the perfect finishing touch.

Home Accents
Scandinavian design makes the most of light, so keep the shades up and the curtains open. Linen curtains and a plush cream rug coordinate nicely with the light oak floors.

Lighting
Lighting can act like jewelry in a room, providing the perfect finishing touch. This pendant light with a slim iron frame picks up the black touches in the furniture. Soft uplights look modern and mirror the shape of the curved chairs.

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The bedroom should also feature light, neutral colors and clean lines.

Paint
Paint your walls white, bone, taupe or shades of light gray to create a soothing, peaceful background.

Flooring & Rugs
Hardwood and stone floors in natural colors, such as brown or gray, provide a nice complement to the décor. If you choose to use carpeting or area rugs, go with light colors and neutral tones. In this image, a jute rug provides texture and warmth.

Furniture
Bedroom furnishings should be minimal for a Scandinavian look. Furniture should have clean lines and be in light, neutral shades. In this image, the white metal nightstand blends seamlessly into the wall. This works especially well in small bedrooms, creating the illusion of space.

Home Accents
Use light-hued curtains to add texture to the room. Blinds or shades in a structured pattern also work well. Layered linens in white, taupe and olive gray, along with rattan and ceramic accessories feel warm and inviting. If you'd like a bit of color, place a green plant in a wicker planter.

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Scandinavian kitchens, like the rest of Scandinavian home décor, emphasize open space and clean lines. Choose neutral colors, such as tan, cream and brown, or go for natural materials, like stone and brick.

Cabinets & Countertops
If you're considering a remodel, the cabinets and countertops are the foundational elements that'll set the stage for your Scandinavian-inspired kitchen. Select European flat-front or slim Shaker cabinets in white or a light wood, such as white oak, birch or ash.

For countertops, you can use butcher block, quartz, granite or marble. Select a lighter-colored countertop in shades of white, cream, beige and light gray. If you choose a stone countertop, it should be leather or honed for a matte, textured surface. Countertops should also be cleared of clutter. Ensure that your kitchen contents are tucked away in drawers, cabinets and the pantry.

Furniture
Tables, chairs and barstools should be neutral in tone to coordinate with the walls and cabinets. Leather, iron and wood are all good choices for kitchen furniture.

Flooring
Wooden planks are a traditional choice for Scandinavian-style kitchen floors. Another good option is waterproof laminate flooring, which can resist stains and scratches. Choose a laminate that mimics the look and natural aging of wood. Wide wood planks expand the look of the room, helping to achieve the open feel you want.

Lighting
Lighting should be streamlined and simple. Rounded globes in frosted or clear glass are popular options. Natural lighting in wicker, rattan and recycled paper are also chic and interesting choices. Other materials include wood and metal in brass or black iron.

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Scandinavian design isn't simply relegated to kitchens, bedrooms and living spaces. Porches, decks and patios can also benefit from Scandinavian design. The warm, neutral colors create a serene environment — inside and out.

Patio Furniture
Select patio furniture in light woods, such as oak and teak or woven materials like rattan and wicker. Coordinating weather-resistant cushions are available in creams, beiges and grays.

Flooring
When you're selecting stain for wood flooring, go for a light and neutral tone. Stone and brick floors work well on patios and porches.

Planters
Use stone or wicker planters in the same light tones.

Lighting
Lighting should be warm and inviting. Use string lights, tabletop fire pit bowls, and solar-powered lanterns to create a cozy environment. If you have the space, add a firepit to your yard or patio.

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Scandinavian home décor emphasizes open space and minimalist design. It’s similar to modern design, but offers more warmth in its incorporation of plants and natural materials, such as wood, linen, leather, cotton and stone. Rooms can be monochromatic or a mixture of neutral textures and tones. If you'd like to recreate the look in your kitchen, dining or living space, Lowe's has a wide selection of Scandinavian-inspired furniture, rugs, lighting, flooring and more. Shop online or visit your local Lowe's.