A Scandinavian-style home is inspired by the Northern European way of living and decorating domestic spaces.
But why do so many people want to replicate the vibes of Nordic homes? Scandinavian interiors convey calm and well-being and are very inviting little places.
Every month we travel to Scandinavia in search of vintage rarities. In this article, we want to share with you five ideas for decorating your home in the Nordic style, stolen from the very interiors we are used to scrutinizing with our eyes.
First, however, give us a brief introduction, to shed some light on what Scandinavian design really stands for.
What is meant by Nordic style and how to make home similar to Northern European homes?
Furnishing home in the Nordic style means, as anticipated, to reproduce the bright and cozy look typical of Scandinavian homes.
These are distinguished by their uncluttered, no-frills appearance, functional furnishings with a clean, modern design, and predominantly natural, high-quality materials.
The most effective way to achieve a credible result is to get to the heart of the lifestyle of the people of Northern Europe by understanding indispensable concepts, first and foremost “Hygge”.
Another good habit to replicate to achieve Nordic-style furniture is thecircular economy, which is very important to Scandinavians.
This attitude implies the possibility of embellish spaces with vintage furnishings, full of character and stories to tell.
What does Scandinavian furniture look like?
If you are wondering what authentic Scandinavian furniture looks like and what’s so special about them, we’ll answer in a nutshell: they are made to last, both aesthetically and durability-wise ..
Scandinavian design history has marked the transition to a new way of conceiving the home, in the period following World War II.
This is evidenced by the fact that countless modern design icons are signed by Scandinavian artists themselves.
Here, then, are 5 goodies to really make your space look like a Northern European home.
1. Use teak wood
Teak wood is a key element in Nordic style, thanks to its natural beauty and its warm and enveloping appearance.
It is part of the Scandinavian modern craft tradition and dresses sideboards, armchairs, bookcases and many other furnishings.
Native to the tropical forests of Southeast Asia, teak has earned an impeccable reputation for its natural beauty, durability, and resistance to the elements and insects. These characteristics made it a treasure in the eyes of Scandinavian modernist designers.
Since the mid-1900s, Nordic design has become synonymous with functionality, restraint, and clean aesthetics, reflecting the values of a modern, progressive society. Teak wood, with its versatility and ability to withstand wear and tear, was a perfect fit for this philosophy. In addition, it also became theemblem of the Danish concept of hygge, helping to convey a sense of coziness.
In short, if there is one wood essence that just can never be missing in a Scandinavian home, it is teak. Use at least a few teak elements to add warmth and character to the interior. For example, storage furniture, which is always needed in every room, or tables and chairs for the dining area.
Browse the vintage Scandinavian teak furniture we selected for you by flying to Northern Europe and curating all the way to Italy.
2. Add a touch of green to any room
The houseplants Are an essential element. They add freshness and vitality to interiors.
Here are three different ideas for decorating with plants in a Scandinavian-style home.
- Green zone. An always effective idea to bring vitality to an environment is to create a green corner, grouping plants in a flower stand, preferably vintage, near a window. An area set up in this way has all the makings of a focal point of an essential room.
- Decorated window sills. In Scandinavian houses, windowsills are wide and often embellished with small sculptures, vases and candelabra.
On windowsills, create a simple and balanced styling consisting of one or two seedlings placed in a nice pot holder and a few small decorative objects.
Don’t you have an indoor windowsill? Install a capacious shelf just below the window to mimic the look of Scandinavian homes. - Speaking of shelves, one piece of furniture that lends itself well to green compositions is the classic wall shelf with ladder-like uprights.
The distance between the shelves is adjustable, so as to accommodate various sizes of pots and seedlings growing in height.
For a balanced layout, it is always best to alternate other items, such as books and small decorations, with the plants.
Discover more Ideas for decorating the home with plants., room by room.
3. Ever-present Scandinavian design icons.
Scandinavian design icons, such as the Wishbone chair by Hans Wegner and the PH5 lamp by Poul Henningsen, are the objects of desire for all lovers of Nordic homes.
Certainly, a celebrated vintage piece can make a difference in the home, adding style and sophistication.
In addition to the sideboards, key pieces of Nordic style, a Scandinavian home never lacks a vintage Scandinavian chair legend or one of the lamps that have made design history.
4. Vintage furniture
As anticipated: vintage furniture is a must. They add a good dose of character to the environment and respect the concept of circular economy.
Home centerpieces such as sideboards, dressers, tables and armchairs take on a whole other flavor when they are selected by curators of Scandinavian vintage (that’s what we at Casafika do every day).
So, at least these key furnishings, deserve to be pieces of history.
If you really want to leave you speechless and surround yourself with authentic beauty, then opt for the total vintage look, choosing only furnishings from Scandinavia.
Your home will be an explosion of charm and uniqueness.
Discover the different good reasons why to buy vintage Scandinavian furniture.
5. Hygge atmosphere even outdoors
Extend the Nordic look to the outdoor spaces of your home as well, creating a hygge outdoors.
Opt for natural wood furniture, such as teak chairs or rustic benches. Wood immediately conveys those feelings of authenticity and naturalness, which are essential for creating the mood hygge.
Le dim lights are essential to create the right atmosphere. Choose lanterns, scented candles or decorative lights to hang from trees or along the balcony.
The warm, enveloping light will make your outdoor evenings even more magical.
Next, think about the comfort. Soft pillows and plaids are a must. Place them on chairs or sofas so guests can snuggle up and feel comfortable, too, on cool fall or spring afternoons.
To make the most of your outdoor space, plan a picnic or informal dinner outdoors. Prepare baskets with delicacies, such as sandwiches, cheeses, fresh fruit, and homemade desserts. Sharing an outdoor meal with friends and family is a perfect way to enjoy the relaxed and convivial atmosphere of the hygge.
Finally, don’t forget to add a touch of green. Colorful plants and flowers can instantly transform an outdoor environment into an oasis of peace.
Summary: 5 ideas for a Scandinavian-style home
In short, furnishing home in the Nordic style is a way to create a cozy and serene environment that reflects the beauty of nature and promotes well-being and comfort.
For an authentic result use elements such as:
- teak wood;
- the greenness of plants;
- the vintage furniture;
- Nordic design icons;
- Hygge vibes, in every room and even outdoors.
