A Scandinavian-style living room is now found even in homes located far beyond Scandinavia. This circumstance is connected both with the general popularity of Scandinavian culture and with some features of this style of interior design. It has taken root especially well in Russia, since here, as in Norway or Finland, there is a lack of sunlight on long winter evenings. In addition, the inherent spirit of minimalism in this style allows this design to be completed with minimal financial costs, which naturally increases its popularity among homeowners.
The main advantage and feature of the Scandinavian style is the abundance of natural light
Despite the fact that the described direction of interior design provides a certain scope for creativity, there are some canons that must be followed if you decide to recreate a small corner of Scandinavia in your apartment or house. For example, such canons include the following characteristic features:
- Use white as the main color. They decorate both the ceilings, walls and floors of the Scandinavian living room. In addition, all its shades and tones are welcome.
- Widely used as a finishing material of wood. At the same time, it should have a light color to give the room a feeling of living and warmth. Not only the furniture in the living room is made of wood, but also the floor and, in some cases, the walls.
- The presence of a large number of accessories made of wrought iron. This material can be used to make furniture, as well as in interior details such as a photo frame or candlestick.
In a Scandinavian-style living room, white is the predominant color, especially for the walls, ceiling and floor.
In a Scandinavian-style living room, it is customary to use natural materials; light wooden furniture will perfectly complement the style.
Wrought iron elements contrast perfectly with the light Scandinavian interior
Separately, it is necessary to talk about two points. Firstly, in living rooms of this type there is simply a huge amount of light. So, if a Scandinavian-style living room with a photo is posted on the Internet, it usually shows a room without curtains. Sometimes blinds are used instead, but usually they try to remove all obstacles that prevent light from entering the room. In addition, in the style described, artificial lighting is widely used, using sconces, floor lamps and various auxiliary light sources.
Traditionally, in the Scandinavian style, all curtains are removed to let in more light.
In the Scandinavian style, in addition to natural lighting, there are many artificial light sources
Secondly, the entire room, decorated in Scandinavian style, should simply be imbued with the spirit of minimalism. So, only straight lines should be present here, and the space in the room should be free of unnecessary furniture. Some of its shortcomings are replaced here by high practicality and functionality, so a properly executed Scandinavian living room is not only spacious, but also practical to use.
The Scandinavian interior is dominated by minimalism, which creates spaciousness in the room.
Scandinavian style living room design is based on simplicity. It is he who is responsible for the finishing of both the room itself and the furniture located in it. The walls here are usually simply plastered white, having previously been perfectly leveled. In this case, the shades can be very different, with the addition of blue, beige or pink.
The walls in a Scandinavian-style living room are most often simply plastered and painted white.
Scandinavian style includes simple accessories and furniture
The Scandinavian-style living room in the photo usually has a harmonious and complete interior. This effect is achieved by painting doorways, doors and windows in the same color. The result is a uniform, harmonious background for both accessories and furniture.
Wooden windows and walls can be painted to match the color of the walls
In the Scandinavian style, only a few shades are used that are in harmony with each other.
As for the floor, the Scandinavian living room requires that it be made of wood, while the color is kept either natural and natural, or the floor is painted white. Since wooden floors are quite expensive, an option with ordinary laminate is also allowed. It will not spoil the appearance of the room at all, preserving its Scandinavian spirit.
A plank floor will look good in a Scandinavian interior
Wooden floors in Scandinavian style can be painted in a predominant white color
By the way, the Scandinavian style in the interior welcomes the presence of a carpet on the floor. It should be made of natural materials and have long pile. It is also perfectly acceptable to use animal skins instead of carpet. They can give the room an atmosphere of naturalness and simplicity, while at the same time insulating the floor.
The Scandinavian-style floor carpet can be matched with northern patterns
Skins are often present on the floor in Nordic Scandinavian interiors.
Since Scandinavia is characterized by a respectful attitude towards nature, the interior of local houses is made strictly from natural materials, so plastic and synthetics are prohibited here. As for household appliances and electronics, they should also not be displayed. If you cannot do without it, you will need to select it so that in its appearance and color it matches the overall decor of the room.
The equipment in the living room in a Scandinavian interior should match the design, for example, a TV can be chosen with a white surface
The fireplace in the interior of a Scandinavian-style living room is a key element; this is worth remembering when planning work on the design of the living room. A room with a fireplace looks cozier and more substantial. In addition, this type of heating allows you to get an additional source of heat on cold winter evenings. A fireplace in a Scandinavian style interior can be either natural or electric. The last option is the only one that can be used in a standard city apartment; in a house outside the city, it is quite possible to make a real fireplace with a grate and a shelf for accessories.
The fireplace is an integral attribute of northern interiors, including Scandinavian ones.
Danish Scandinavian fireplace is usually small round in shape
If it is not possible to install a real fireplace or stove, then you can use an electric one.
Living room furniture in Scandinavian style
The Scandinavian interior of the living room assumes the presence of a small amount of furniture. The fact is that in its spirit it is very close to minimalism, which prefers free spaces, not cluttered with furniture. In addition, usually the homes of the Nordic countries are furnished quite simply, so if you look at the design of a Scandinavian-style living room in the photo, you will notice the rather modest furnishings of the homes of Finns or Norwegians.
Scandinavians are characterized by simple but original furniture in the interior.
As for the immediate furnishings of the room being described, the furniture for it should consist of the most necessary items. So, it is mandatory to install a large leather sofa in the living room. In addition to leather, its upholstery can be made of fur, suede or linen.
A leather sofa is often found in Scandinavian interiors
On such a sofa they receive guests or relax during the day. You can also watch TV on it. In addition to the sofa, armchairs or ottomans are usually installed. As for chairs and stools, in the Scandinavian style they are usually not used in the living room, but are used in the kitchen or hallway.
Scandinavian cabinets can be either open or closed, and they must be made only of natural wood. Homemade furniture is very welcome, but it is worth noting that various embellishments and excessive decoration are not welcome here. This applies to carving and painting. It is best to simply paint the furniture in a strict light color without additional decor.
Bookshelves that can be painted white will help complement the living room in a Scandinavian interior.
In addition to the closet, the living room may also need small racks or shelves. They are perfect for placing books or decorative items on them. Such furniture can create an atmosphere of simplicity and naturalness in the room as opposed to large and massive walls. Racks with trophies of a fisherman or hunter, which are very popular in Scandinavia, will look especially stylish.
Wooden book racks in a Scandinavian interior for furniture and other elements
Despite the spirit of minimalism that permeates the described interior design style, an ordinary mirror would look very appropriate in a living room designed in accordance with its canons. Its task is to reflect and scatter light. As a result, the room will receive additional lighting without the use of electrical appliances.
Mirrors in a Scandinavian interior are of the usual simple shape, but large, reflecting a lot of light
Worth mentioning separately! In the Scandinavian style, despite the priority of wood, the use of materials such as glass and metal is quite acceptable.
It is acceptable to use glass surfaces in a Scandinavian interior
At the same time, all products made from them must be correctly integrated into the interior of the room. For example, the use of a large amount of furniture with chrome elements is not recommended, and combination with plastic is also undesirable.
Basic decorative elements
The Scandinavian interior welcomes the use of additional lighting sources, despite the presence of large windows without curtains. In this regard, sconces, floor lamps and lamps are considered one of the popular decorative elements of this room. Moreover, the more different lighting fixtures there are in one room, the better. For example, a large chandelier can be complemented by a floor lamp or candelabra placed on the mantelpiece.
A variety of sconces, chandeliers and floor lamps at the same time perfectly complement the Scandinavian style
A room decorated in Scandinavian style should combine elegance with restraint, so the living room should not be cluttered with trinkets that have no practical value. In addition, it is not customary to display live plants and flowers in such a room. Instead, you can put household items or some utilitarian items, such as dishes.
Green plants and useful little things perfectly complement the Scandinavian interior
Handmade items are also perfect for a Scandinavian living room. These can be sofa cushions, blankets and other textiles. Experienced designers advise using products in brown or its shades. Wood crafts can also be used in limited quantities.
Large knitted blankets and various pillows will perfectly complement the Scandinavian interior
As for wall decoration, it should be discreet. Since the main color in the described design style is white, the walls should be the same, but it is prohibited to introduce any elements unusual for the style, such as stucco molding or columns. Scandinavians have developed their own original style of interior design, so they do not tolerate borrowed elements. As a last resort, it would be appropriate to place paintings or posters with nature-themed scenes on a perfectly flat white wall.
White walls in a Scandinavian interior can be complemented with paintings in white frames
Separately, it is worth mentioning the place of modern technology and electronics. Rooms decorated in Scandinavian style, in principle, welcome the use of household appliances and electronics, but at the same time they should fit into the interior of the room as much as possible. A situation in which the TV becomes the center of the room is not allowed, since this place should be occupied by a fireplace. Therefore, all equipment should be hidden from the eyes of guests.
Appliances usually fit well into Scandinavian interiors
In any case, it is worth decorating several rooms at once in the Scandinavian style. In this case, the maximum effect will be achieved. If this is not possible due to the small size of the apartment, then you can decorate the hallway, kitchen or living room in this way. They are best suited for decoration in the style described; in addition, special luxury is not required there.
It is better to decorate several rooms at once in the Scandinavian style
Living room dining room in Scandinavian style
The Scandinavian living room is often combined with a room such as a dining room. The fact is that modern apartments do not have a large area to accommodate these premises in different rooms, so their owners have to combine the dining room and living room. The result is a very interesting solution, which is quite widely used in the Scandinavian school of interior design.
Advice! In any case, when a decision is made to combine the living room and dining room, both functional areas should be designed in the same style.
You can separate them using some techniques that allow you to visually differentiate the dining room and living room. Thus, furniture for entertaining guests, such as a sofa, can be installed in such a way that, together with armchairs and ottomans, it forms a separate corner. In this case, some of the guests can be at the table, and some can talk with each other as part of a separate group.
Scandinavian style is a great option for combining a kitchen and living room
The combination of a kitchen and a living room in a Scandinavian style is well suited for small spaces, as the white color visually enlarges the space
In addition, the floors of the room can be finished in different ways. So, for example, the space under the table is decorated with laminate, and the rest of the room with parquet. You can also make the flooring in the dining area lighter, and in the living room darker. This will not cause additional costs and will not take up useful space, but will allow you to clearly distinguish where exactly the dining room is located and where the living room is.
Zoning the kitchen - living room due to flooring, furniture and ceiling
Another zoning option could be the use of additional lighting devices. So, for example, there may be more light in the place where food is eaten. To do this, floor lamps are installed there, pendant lamps are placed, as well as sconces. The reception area, on the contrary, should be equipped with a small number of appliances and have dim lighting.
As for furniture, the options for its installation can be very diverse. So, instead of a table, you can install a bar counter in the dining-living room. It won't take up much space and is ideal for a buffet. In addition, a small buffet or hanging cabinets for storing tea utensils would be appropriate. If there is no way to place them, then racks are quite suitable for this purpose.
You can zone the kitchen-living room using a counter table
It is also worth considering one technical nuance! The fact is that food can emit persistent odors that can linger in the room for a long time. This is an unacceptable situation for a living room. In connection with this circumstance, it makes sense to install a more powerful ventilation system in the combined room. In this case, it will be necessary to try to disguise it so that it does not stand out from the general interior of the living-dining room.
Scandinavian style in small living rooms
Since the Scandinavian style does not require large premises, it is ideal for decorating rooms in standard small-sized apartments. At the same time, some nuances of their architecture and design are quite suitable for being used to decorate a living room in the described style. For example, these include elements of brickwork or fragments of a concrete slab painted white.
A bright Scandinavian interior is perfect for small living rooms.
The dominant color in the Scandinavian style of interior design is white. It visually expands the room and increases the usable area available in it, as a result, even a small-sized apartment can look large. In order for the effect to intensify even more, it is necessary to use only straight, strict lines in the design of the room. The decor should be insignificant or completely absent.
As for furniture, Scandinavian-style living rooms can be equipped with multifunctional options. For example, it is good to use transforming cabinets that can be used as chairs or ottomans. An interesting way out of the situation in the absence of additional usable space could be to arrange a tabletop on the windowsill. It can be used as a coffee table or bar.
With the help of a folding bed you can quickly turn the living room into a bedroom
Using mirrors can also add visual space to a room. But what you should give up is dark-colored furniture and finishing materials. Dark color not only visually “steals” useful space, but also creates a mood that is not very conducive to a good rest in the company of friends. Therefore, such tones should be used in doses, allocating them a strictly defined place, for example, in the corners of a room or in dividing functional areas.
A living room in a small room can also be equipped with such an integral attribute of a Scandinavian home as a fireplace. This may be an electric version or an imitation. In any case, the fireplace in the room will need to be designated. This will make the room original and create a center of attraction in it.
A small living room in a Scandinavian style is best decorated in the spirit of minimalism
But what you should never do in a small apartment is clutter it with furniture. The fact is that the Scandinavian style loves space, and a living room filled with furniture is not only functionally inconvenient, but also simply looks ugly. Try to avoid this incident, and if this is not possible, move the excess furniture to other rooms.
Often in a small apartment the kitchen and living room are combined
In the event that you are unable to independently decorate a room in the described interior design style, it makes sense to contact a specialist in this field. The fact is that the Scandinavian style does not tolerate mixing, so it is quite difficult to decorate a room in this style without spoiling it with high-tech elements. A professional designer is able to take into account all the nuances and will decorate the room in accordance with both your wishes and the canons of style.
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Tsugunov Anton Valerievich
Reading time: 6 minutes
A Scandinavian-style apartment has recently turned into a design dream for many of our compatriots. With all its originality, simplicity and sophisticated beauty, it looks appropriate in both luxury apartments and a one-room apartment, while leaving wide scope for creativity and self-realization.
Origin of the direction
This interior style owes its appearance to the reigning King Gustav III at the beginning of the 18th century, during whose reign science, art and culture received a powerful impetus. Thanks to the royal will, the Empire style, widespread in Europe, took root in this northern country. Over time, due to cultural and geographical features, it acquired some characteristic national features, turning into the so-called “Swedish Empire”.
The priorities of the residents of these harsh regions were comfort, safety, reliability and warmth. Gradually, these qualities replaced unnecessary decorative excesses, pomp and luxury, putting modest aesthetics, functionality and simplicity at the forefront of priorities.
Since the middle of the last century, Scandinavian interior design began to find increasing recognition among the general public, and it has not faded away to this day.
Style motifs from Scandinavia
To better understand the philosophy of this design direction, we suggest learning the features of the Scandinavian style in the interior.
Color
Having started a Scandinavian-style renovation, be prepared to be surrounded by an abundance of white surfaces that lighten the surrounding space and give its owners a feeling of delightful serenity.
In addition to boiling white, the Scandinavian style prefers calm, natural colors - light shades of green, yellow, gray, beige and blue.
Several bright accents will add originality and originality to the interior.
Favorite materials
Scandinavian interiors prefer naturalness not only in colors, but also in the materials used. Therefore, forget about plastic and chipboard, you should now be surrounded by wood, stone, fur, leather. If you cannot do without man-made materials, try to select those that will skillfully imitate their natural counterparts.
Furnishings
A room in a Scandinavian style should be furnished exclusively with furniture made of natural wood. The upholstery is chosen in pastel colors; it is permissible to combine materials for it.
Lighting
Natural light is an important design element, so a key feature of the Scandinavian style is the presence of large windows with wooden frames, allowing the home to be filled with sunlight. This feature makes thick, heavy drapes and curtains inappropriate; choose light fabric that transmits light well, or abandon them altogether.
But the absence of huge windows covering half the wall is not yet a reason to refuse to embody the Scandinavian style in the interior. Well-designed artificial lighting will help make up for the lack of daylight. Equip your apartment with a variety of lighting fixtures: chandeliers, floor lamps, sconces, lamps and even candles. They can be completely different in shape and color, but at the same time they will not stand out from the general style of the interior.
Surfaces
Walls and floors in Scandinavian style should be decorated with natural shades. For walls, it is preferable to use light, pastel colors. Often there is white or beige plaster, as well as cladding one wall or part of it with wooden panels. A Scandinavian-style toilet often boasts light blue or white tiles.
The ceiling can only be snow-white. Wooden floors can be decorated with plain rugs or stylized patchwork runners, making the environment more homely, family-friendly and cozy.
Decor
The whole world has heard a lot about Scandinavian minimalism, so when decorating interiors, only the most necessary accessories are selected in very limited quantities. Give preference to natural materials, glass, ceramics. The peoples inhabiting these lands have always been close to the sea, so such a theme will always be appropriate. For example, the interiors of apartments can be decorated with paintings or photographs depicting sea spaces.
Accents
The abundance of white can evoke associations with a hospital, so a design move to revitalize the Scandinavian style in the interior of an apartment is to place bright color accents. Any small item made in contrasting colors will become a breath of good mood and cheerfulness. This could be a green pillow on a white sofa, a blue lampshade on a lamp, or photo frames painted in different colors. The main thing is to stop in time and not overdo it.
Decorating an apartment in the spirit of the northern peoples
Renovating an apartment in a Scandinavian style is one of the most rational decisions a modern city dweller can make. Thanks to its brevity, democracy and unpretentiousness, Scandinavian design will help save significant money and time for its implementation.
- , will become the heart of any home, a gathering place for the whole family. Therefore, the surrounding space should be designed as comfortable and cozy as possible. The durability, comfort and attractiveness of the interior will pay for all the costs of natural materials. You can diversify your boring environment by simply changing a few sofa cushions or a picture on the wall. The interior design of a living room in a Scandinavian style features a snow-white ceiling, light walls and flooring in natural wood tones.
- . The design of an apartment in the Scandinavian style suggests that this room will, first of all, be as functional as possible. In terms of color, the most common contrast here is white trim and a dark ceramic apron, which come in tandem with natural wood furnishings.
An apartment with a Scandinavian-style studio kitchen, divided into work and dining areas, would fit perfectly into modern reality.
- , more than other rooms, minimalism in the interior is inherent. The main features of such a room are simple decoration, a minimum of furniture and decor.
- A Scandinavian-style office in modern urban conditions is rarely an isolated room. A more realistic option is to allocate a comfortable, functional space in the living room or bedroom, in which it is pleasant to be and work.
A Scandinavian-style workplace is a compact desk or a console attached to the wall with open shelves for storing necessary stationery and books.
- A bathroom decorated in Scandinavian style is spacious, bright, with maximum functionality of the space. It is also characterized by combinations of light wall decoration and dark floors. A Scandinavian-style toilet is usually distinguished by its laconic forms, environmentally friendly texture and the maximum possible use of natural materials.
- Auxiliary rooms, such as a corridor, pantry or balcony in the Scandinavian style, are characterized by maximum moderation in the setting and simplicity of form. They are not filled with rubbish and unnecessary garbage. Everything you need is placed in convenient and concise storage systems.
Design of small apartments
Not everyone is lucky with large apartments, but the Scandinavian style in the interior of small apartments looks extremely organic, allowing you to make the most of the available space, even if you only have a modest one-room apartment.
On the Internet you can find many examples of how to introduce Scandinavian style into the interior of small apartments; the photos will give you many ideas. To implement them, use our tips.
- A small apartment decorated in Scandinavian style should delight with white wall decoration, which can visually lighten and expand the space.
- in Scandinavian style will transform even the most modest property into a modern, stylish space. Don't be afraid of redevelopment.
- Do not interfere with natural light to fill the rooms; the Scandinavian style in a city apartment involves minimal decor and drapery of window openings.
- Bright accents, large or small spots of color are also inherent in the Scandinavian style; many photos on the Internet will tell you interesting solutions.
Why is minimalism today increasingly beginning to appeal to modern women to one degree or another? Personally, when I start cleaning and dusting, I dream of simple furniture and a minimum of any decorations. The simpler things are and the less unnecessary, the easier it is to clean up and simply create conditions of order for your family. For working women or mothers of many children, this approach would save a lot of time. Therefore, when my husband and I began to little by little dream and plan renovations, I immediately talked about my desire to do renovations in this particular style. It may seem that the interior with a Scandinavian character is cold and uncomfortable. But I have always believed and will continue to believe that a lot of light and simple things in the house only helps to find the right accessories and decorate the rooms without cluttering them up.
Where do legs come from?
I won’t surprise anyone if I note two main trends in the style in general: everything is light, simple, and at the same time warm and cozy. Surprisingly, it was precisely this tandem of completely opposite directions that made the Scandinavian style so original and unlike anything else.
Officially, this style appeared in the second half of the 19th century. But, in fact, it gradually took shape for about three centuries, step by step. At first, French design rules were methodically imposed on the Scandinavians, and English furniture gradually appeared. But the peoples of the north abandoned this foreign body in their harmonious and simple style, which is why elaborate lines did not take root there, and luxurious fabrics became a thing of the past.
All that we now call the Scandinavian style was finally formed only in the 19th century. All its main elements fully reflect the typical behavior and worldview of the inhabitants of these countries. Everything is laconic, calm and understandable, but not without pleasant colorful moments. Therefore, it is difficult to say whether this approach is truly cold. Here, who looks at it differently: who sees warm natural materials and natural colors, and who sees too much white and gray hurt their eyes. And many things are simply alien to our people, from the white floor to the lack of carpets or other decor on the walls.
What do Scandinavians breathe?
And they breathe deeply and deeply with the clean and bright filling of their home. Have you noticed how spacious and light a room becomes when there are no unnecessary objects and too much color load? For you and me, lovers of decorating more with a characteristic breadth of soul, such stingy decor may seem to be a consequence of a lack of colors and greenery. Indeed, there is not enough warmth and sun in the homeland of the style, and just a lot of light colors and multi-level light make it possible to make up for this lack.
As for the decor itself, it’s very much there, but it’s not pretentious and seems to be part of the working content of the room. Color will definitely appear, but not in an abundance of paintings or figurines, but in the form of bedspreads or dishes, cozy colored window frames and flowerpots. In a word, I do not agree with the opinion that the room will become cold and empty, but rather spacious and light.
So, when we want to create a Scandinavian atmosphere at home, we use the following techniques in decorating and decorating the premises:
We avoid anything obviously modern and technical (all materials used are natural, such as wood and stone or simple ceramic tiles), the simpler the better;
Complex lines for furniture are not used here; all sofas or armchairs, and other furniture, are usually low and very laconic (most often the furniture is not polished, but covered with a layer of transparent varnish, sometimes white or a similar shade of paint);
As a rule, a monochrome color scheme is used for the interior, and the color spots are made from textiles, which in turn are also natural (linen and cotton, wool or very thin transparent fabrics);
As for the decoration, all frames and windows, including straight and simple, have a lot of glass (even the windows are not covered with curtains and curtains, instead there is an almost transparent fabric, light and airy);
And of course there is a lot of lighting, from ceiling to tabletop - as light as possible and the light is not warm yellow, but with a cool tint.
The room can be yellow, blue, green - but all this is in a natural palette and without fanaticism. In a word, everything is concise and not overloaded.
The use of established interior styles allows you to take a comprehensive approach to the design of your living space, maintaining it in a coherent design format. The Scandinavian direction of furnishing apartments and private houses has its own characteristics, largely due to the climatic characteristics of the region. Despite the preservation of long-standing traditions, this style is complemented by new features. Branches from the general concept include Scandinavian minimalism in the interior, focused on optimizing design in terms of ergonomics and functionality.
General information about Scandinavian minimalism
The basis of the style was laid back in the 19th century. As the name suggests, the trend originated in the northern countries - Denmark, Sweden, Norway, etc. In the middle of the 20th century, the concept underwent a transformation and received a second name - “Swedish modern”. He was characterized by sophistication and a specific zest in the form of simplicity with the rejection of pretentious forms and unnecessary accents.
On this basis, the modern understanding of this style as oriented towards minimalism took shape quite logically. The frosty climate and lack of sunlight still dictate their own rules for home design. Therefore, in addition to aesthetic properties, modern Scandinavian minimalism in the interior also requires the inclusion of functional means aimed at creating coziness and comfort. It’s worth talking separately about the design features of the style.
Special Style Characteristics
Initially, the Scandinavian design of houses assumed maximum closeness to nature - this applied to both the interior design with natural materials and the general architecture of buildings, which were usually made of wood. These inclinations gave rise to a feeling of lightness, simplicity and naturalness of style. The fundamental quality of such housing is a minimum of luxury.
The nature of the arrangement of premises is determined by practicality and comfort. One can note, in a sense, a kinship with other conservative styles, but there is also a place for decorations that have their own specific shade in Scandinavian minimalism in the interior. Features of decorative design are associated with the neutrality and unobtrusiveness of the elements. At the same time, decor and decorations not only fulfill the task of establishing aesthetic shades, but can also have functional content.
In general, we can say that the style is close to the needs of an undemanding person, while every detail necessarily has practical benefits. In this way, a balanced, functional and comfortable space for living is organized.
Optimal materials to reflect style
Typically, the most common material for this style is wood. As already noted, it is considered the basis for classic Scandinavian house building. Even today, century-old recipes are used for treating pine and spruce with special solutions with protective properties that allow you to preserve houses for many years of use.
Stone is also widely used. In addition to building houses, it is used as a basis for furnace structures. Natural fabrics made from cotton, wool and linen are also used in the interior. Tiles are also made from natural clay raw materials without the inclusion of artificial and environmentally harmful components.
And yet, does Scandinavian minimalism allow the use of non-natural materials in the interior? Of course, it was the modern trend that softened this limitation for the sake of the same practicality and functionality. Objects and finishing materials made of metal alloys and plastics can be used. However, environmental safety is still a mandatory requirement.
Characteristic color schemes
Regardless of the material or object, when choosing a color, it is advisable to focus on neutral and calm tones. Win-win options would be light blue, light green and white colors. However, they do not necessarily have to be dull and faded. Pastel solutions are more suitable for bedrooms, textiles and ceiling decoration. But in functional areas in the living room or kitchen, for variety, it is quite possible to introduce light contrasting tones with blue, orange and red.
However, you should still avoid bright and variegated colors - they will disrupt the overall atmosphere of calm and naturalness. Scandinavian minimalism in the interior is inherently formed by natural components. Therefore, almost all natural shades are allowed - from brown to rich green vegetation. The natural origin of these objects compensates for the contrast created.
Interior surface design
It is recommended to stick to the traditional set of design tools. If it is possible to limit yourself to preserving the base of the surface, then it is worth using it. The same log house allows, with proper surface treatment, to do without wall cladding. In other cases, boards, lining, parquet, plaster, patchwork tracks and stretch fabrics on the ceiling can be used.
In the bathroom, you can use neutral light blue or white tiles. As for wallpaper and paint, Scandinavian minimalism in the interior rarely uses these solutions. This is partly due to a deviation from the principles of naturalness, but there is also the artificiality of paint and varnish coatings. They are technologically advanced and versatile in use, but the same board finish with natural patterns is more suitable for the style concept.
Selection of furniture items
Furniture items most clearly reflect the character of the Scandinavian style. Products should take up minimal space and, if possible, have the natural color of the material. As a rule, the basis for furniture is most often wood, and glass, metal and textiles in colors typical of Scandinavian minimalism in the interior can be used as individual elements. The photo below shows the design features of such items. The base is made from beech, pine and spruce, and suede, linen, cotton and genuine leather can be used for upholstery.
Approach to lighting organization
One of the main problems of regions with cold climates and long winters is the lack of light. Therefore, artificial lighting plays a big role in home improvement. In this regard, style requirements are very democratic, so different types of lamps are suitable for use. For example, you can use floor lamps, chandeliers, table and wall lamps, and candles.
However, when choosing specific shapes and designs, it is still worth relying on the general requirements for both materials and color. Do not forget that Scandinavian minimalism in the interior of the house eliminates bulkiness and involves the use of small forms. It is better to select designs with thin, but functional and reliable cases. As for the lamps themselves, the style is more suited to the emission of incandescent filaments, but modern demands again force many to compromise and choose LED devices. Despite the artificiality of the luminous flux of such models, they are distinguished by a high level of energy saving, which is a significant advantage and corresponds to the spirit of the style.
Window openings
The possibility of using natural light cannot be ruled out either. The windows should be large, so they will fill the house with sunlight. If in the Scandinavian countries this possibility is limited by harsh climate conditions, then in Russia this factor is less noticeable, although, of course, it is not completely excluded in cold regions.
An important point is the technical design of the frame. As mentioned, Scandinavian minimalism in the interior of an apartment allows the use of plastics, if necessary - and this is exactly the case of practical expediency. If there are strict requirements for maintaining heat in the house, then a modern double-glazed window will be a good choice for decorating large windows. If we are talking about a warm region, then there is no point in abandoning classic wooden frames.
Decor elements
Scandinavian interiors involve the use of small but original details that also carry a certain meaning. It is not just the aesthetic value that is important, but also the deeper meaning for the residents themselves. For example, these could be family items, homemade creations, photographs, etc. Of course, a Scandinavian-style interior is not complete without functional decorative elements. Minimalism, even with a touch of asceticism, fully allows for the use of modest flower vases, mirrors with original frames, candlesticks and fleecy rugs with harmonious patterns. Decorative accents can be created using dishes if they are made of ceramics, natural clay or porcelain.
Who is it suitable for?
This style is suitable for connoisseurs of home peace and comfort. This design also does not require large financial investments, which expands the circle of potential users. Of course, the general concept of the style is rather close to country houses that are surrounded by nature. But you can organize Scandinavian minimalism in the interior of a city apartment if you follow the above rules of interior design.
Conclusion
Despite all the attractiveness and positive features of home improvement, the Scandinavian style still limits designers in using certain stylistic solutions. When choosing this direction, you should avoid introducing excessive Hi-Tech elements.
New technologies and Scandinavian minimalism in interior design contradict each other, although a way out of this conflict can be found. For example, in the lines of modern manufacturers of household appliances and electronics there are many stylized product models aimed specifically at use in traditional interiors. This style can be expressed in the form of cases made of natural material, as well as in external coatings imitating natural patterns, etc.
In any case, when it comes to modern housing, such compromises are simply inevitable. The main thing is to maintain a balance, maintaining commitment to the idea of Nordic minimalism, and not forgetting about the comfort inherent in today.
We all try to make our lives as simple as possible. This is the essence of man, which some people are sometimes unaware of. The desire for simplification manifests itself everywhere - this is confirmed by the emergence of such an architectural style as minimalism. He is attractive to many and attracts attention precisely because of his peculiarity.
Not everyone can decide to deprive themselves of various little things that “give comfort” to their home. This is a mistaken opinion - after the first acquaintance with the style of Finnish minimalism, a feeling of “your own, dear, comfortable” will arise.
Finnish minimalism – everything ingenious is simple
Inside such a house, you will not be left with the feeling that in fact the person is painting the place, and not vice versa. Therefore, it is important to seek help from a specialist - a person who is perfectly versed in architecture and has a sense of style.
Finland, like Sweden, Denmark, Iceland, and Norway, amazes with its incredible natural beauty. Scandinavian countries have a harsh climate, so in those parts a special attitude towards the construction and decoration of houses has been formed.
Today, the Scandinavian style is becoming more and more popular - it is taking equal positions with Italian and French. The trend originated in Denmark, Norway, Finland, and Sweden in the 50s. And Scandinavian aesthetics is based on “three pillars”, namely functionality, minimalism, and simplicity. If the design is useful and practical, it will add even more comfort every day.
After the Second World War, the Scandinavian style in architecture and interior began to actively develop, which would be accessible not only to the upper, but also to the middle strata of the population. Such houses were distinguished by their simplicity, democratic appearance, friendly and relaxed atmosphere.
Here the expression “The task of an architect is to make life more convenient” comes in handy. The beauty of facades fades into the background; ensuring the ideal balance of light and space becomes paramount. Examples of such buildings at the initial stage of development of the Finnish minimalism style are the Finlandia Palace, the Church of Three Crosses, and the Mairea Villa.
Scandinavian minimalism involves creating luxury house projects with a minimum of details. We have to “reconsider” everything and completely abandon things that do not carry any functional load. There is a struggle for space, and decorative elements are clearly losing.
Finnish minimalism – emphasis on functionality without sacrificing quality
Scandinavian-style houses are characterized by free spaces, calm and laconic decor. And the geographic location of the founding country affected the stylistic features and specific design. Due to the lack of sunlight and the harshness of the area, the emphasis in almost all interiors is on light colors, or rather on shades of white. Particularly popular are the large number of indoor plants in the premises and the huge variety of lighting fixtures.
There are effective techniques of Finnish minimalism that exist in real projects:
- Monochrome light colors are often welcomed in the interior, but even here there are no accents. Contrasting, bright blankets and pillows dilute the monotony.
- It is customary to use furniture that is low, simple, made from natural materials (mainly wood, spruce, pine) and at the same time as comfortable as possible.
- There is a clear sympathy for everything natural (wood, stone, plaster, simple tiles); parquet or solid boards are used as flooring.
- It is always beneficial to place a characteristic Dutch oven or a small fireplace in the interior.
- Smooth, natural lines are allowed.
- There are also designer accessories in the form of mirrors within simple shapes, decor made of transparent glass, and items made of cobalt ceramics.
There is decor, but everything is in moderation. Abundance is not welcome here, only space and a lot of light. A special touch of comfort is added by warm blankets made in national motifs and neat, cute flowers on the windowsills.
Cozy variation - luxury houses in the Finnish minimalist style
Among the various styles of minimalism in architecture (Japanese, high-tech, etc.), Finnish attracts with its simple comfort. In this case, “simple” is by no means boring, but interesting and original. Scandinavian designers and architects once challenged the harsh winters - they allowed us to enjoy warmth and comfort all year round without falling into depression. The spaces created are practical, maximally open, light, “airy”, as if they contribute to the discovery of a “second wind”. All household products are at hand. The colors used in Scandinavian designs do not put pressure on the psyche and provide freedom of action and thought.
How to decorate the living room of an elite house in the style of Finnish minimalism?
Despite the small number of items in the room, it will not only look spacious, but also luxurious. It would be appropriate to say here that what really matters is quality, not quantity.
Let your course be restraint and grace, aesthetics and ergonomics. Let's try to overcome the habit of many of placing small objects everywhere that only clog up the space.
Several approaches to creating a favorite place in the house:
- The small size of the living room will make it neat and even more comfortable. Here, free space and light will be of particular value - there will be a struggle for every millimeter. In this case, it is better to minimize the color scheme; often it is a boiling white color, which allows you to create an excellent, harmonious background. But it is important not to overdo it, so as not to create complete boredom around. Mirrors, a beautiful floor lamp, a soft rug, and a comfortable chair would be appropriate, which together will create a rather stylish, expressive interior.
- Today it is popular to use partner colors when decorating a living room in a small, cozy Scandinavian-style home. The Nordic direction is characteristic when white and gray colors are successfully combined. If previously only white was always taken into account, now gray helps to set it off, thereby placing accents (this could be a soft gray wall background or a dark gray sofa, creating an interesting contrast). Scandinavian style allows you to combine minimalism and urbanism, which becomes indispensable for emphasizing certain elements.
- The good thing about decor in a house designed in the style of Finnish minimalism is that it never goes out of style. Furniture will always be relevant, some “classic” details will look elegant and stylish in your living room.
- Finnish minimalism can be vibrant. True connoisseurs of comfort and practicality will more than once make sure that not an excess of decorative elements creates comfort and saturates the house with “colors”. It is possible to combine interesting geometric designs, abstraction, stripes, chevron patterns with the use of bright colors. This way you will give your home individuality, create a bright, pleasing to the eye environment (yellow sofa, pillows, floor lamps, wallpaper on one of the walls, carpet, etc.).
- There are no restrictions on using one thing. Today, a mix of styles (the so-called fusion) is allowed, which helps to move away from the standards. This can be a competent combination of rustic and Scandinavian trends, also the latter with modernity, etc. Thanks to cooperation with a professional team, it will be possible to choose the best option for you.
InnovaStroy specialists will help not only design your new home, conducting preliminary research on the ground and selecting appropriate building materials for the foundation and construction technology. Thanks to the presence of multidisciplinary employees on staff, each of them will work in parallel with each other on your project. Designers will develop the best variations of interior design in your favorite style. At the same time price for designing a private house will be fair and not overpriced.
Construction of a cottage in the style of Finnish minimalism with InnovaStroy
To summarize, minimalism is inherent in the Scandinavian movement:
- restrained color scheme;
- large bright windows;
- hidden light sources;
- minimizing decor or eliminating it completely;
- simplicity of the materials used;
- clear forms;
- free, spacious areas (formed by the play of light, combining rooms).
- For adherents of a pure, rooted direction. In such an interior one can see restraint, rigor, and prosperity.
- For lovers of modern. This is a combination of rigor and modern versatility, expressiveness, where there is no antique furniture and decor, it is spacious and light.
We will build a cottage in the style of Finnish minimalism using:
- Natural materials that will bring comfort to your home. It can be wood, metal, ceramics, leather, fur, linen, cotton.
- Your furniture will be cozy, practical, without taking up much space.
- The windows are large, the curtains are made of light material that can let in a lot of sun.
- The walls inside can be finished with plaster or painted (light gray, light blue, beige, white).
- The floor will be made of laminate, parquet or solid boards. Thanks to a fluffy, soft carpet or patchwork runner, you can add even more coziness to the atmosphere.
- The bathroom will look great in pale blue tiles.
- Let's complement the interior with bright and simple accessories in moderate quantities (glass vases, mirrors, porcelain, candles, textiles, ceramics, clay objects, family photos on the walls, indoor flowers, wicker baskets).
Experts often resort to special techniques - for example, they increase the space of the house even more by combining the living room with the kitchen and corridor. Forged decorations, stone or brickwork, wicker furniture in the interior become a “highlight”. It is easy to emphasize the perfect taste of the home owner by applying this approach to design.
The decision has been made! All that remains is to order the construction of a cottage from InnovaStroy and soon enjoy your new home.
