Minimalism has become a popular concept as people realize they can do with much less than they think. Removing what is unnecessary and only keeping the essential’s has been the challenge behind minimalism, a challenge being accepted by many individuals today. This idea has also made its way into the design world with homeowners looking to achieve a beautiful interior using only what is needed. Several design styles have been born or resurrected by the minimalist movement including:

• Mediterranean interior design
• Bohemian interior design
• Scandinavian interior design

These styles all have one common goal, to design with only the essentials while still creating a beautiful and functional space. The Scandinavian interior design has gained a lot of attention in recent years as people enjoy the elegance it provides without great fanfare. The elements that make up this minimalist design style allow people to still express their personal tastes but with less and it is done in such a way that no one feels deprived. Let’s explore more of what it means to use a Scandinavian interior style and if it is right for your home.

What is Scandinavian design?

Before deciding on which design style is right for you, it helps to first understand the defining elements that it consists of. Scandinavian design is a minimalist style that uses a less is more approach to creating spaces in the home. The core elements include:

• Natural lighting
• Organic materials like wood and leather
• Neutral colors
• Clean lines
• Simple textures

By blending these different yet elementary tools together, you can compose an area in your home that is cozy, inviting, and functional. Some of the best design features are inspired by nature which is why incorporating materials like wood, leather, glass, and even metal appeal to us. The overall goal of Scandinavian design is to emphasize the potential of a space through the use of simplicity that allows you to move and breathe with ease. It is a partnership of efficiency and quiet elegance resulting in a place of calm where you can just relax from it all. This design choice is all about harmony and balance along with warmth in the environment of your home making it a wonderful choice for any area whether outdoor or in.

Using Scandinavian interior design principles

Once you have decided on your design style choice it is time to begin exploring all the options available to you. As already mentioned, Scandinavian design style utilizes and highlights the beauty of nature to create the perfect environment for your home. Remember that one of the main emphasis of this design option is minimal. There are usually several good aspects to a room that can be highlighted through the correct use of certain elements. If you have great natural light, play off of that by using a soft color palette that will harmonize perfectly with it plus delicate window treatments that allow much of the rays to pour in. You can even add a mirror to reflect more light into the space. Arranging your space with a few modern furniture pieces also highlights nature since much of the design inspiration comes from the gentle curves and lines often found outside. Neutral, muted colors are a big part of the Scandinavian design style which can include white, gray, black, a range of blues, pinks and even greens. From art to rugs, color is a wonderful way to give a little contrast and accent to the room. Texture brings a little depth and interest to the space and can be accomplished with a simple throw blanket or even a unique arrangement of bare twigs in a vase. Scandinavian interior design is effective in transforming a house into a calm home that invites us to just sit and stay awhile.

Less is more

The Scandinavian interior design style is based on a minimalist approach and often creates spaces that feel less crowded with things but more serene to the soul. Just because there is room doesn’t mean there has to be a piece of furniture or wall hanging in every spot. Having a home with everything you need but limiting what you want can yield surprising results. There are less chances of clutter building up and struggling to know where everything is. This does not mean that your home will be boring, one the contrary, minimalist design styles like Scandinavian often feel very chic and modern due to the distinguishing clean lines and balanced color tones. When planning for your space, think through the various tasks that need to be accomplished there or the main purpose for the room. Once you do it is easier to know what will be needed such as furniture and accent pieces. Minimalism focuses on what is functional while still achieving a sense of elegance. It might surprise you to know how much less you need to ensure a room can still do the necessary tasks. This style does not mean you only have one piece of furniture and one lamp but it does reveal that less can accomplish more than you first thought possible.

The benefits of Scandinavian interior design

Going with a minimalist design style, like the Scandinavian, comes with benefits such as:

• Less to clean
• Improved mindset and focus
• Spend less
• Minimal clutter
• Quality items

Due to fewer items in the home it is safe to say that you won’t have to spend so much time cleaning plus you can get to areas easier. Money can be saved since you won’t need that extra sofa and home accent pieces. In turn, that also means you can purchase better quality items since you may only get one instead of two. As we said before, less stuff means lower risk of clutter building up and it is easier to keep things in their place or to find them quickly. Our lives tend to be busy and can often feel cluttered which is why having a home that possesses a sense of calm through limited objects can improve the mindset and focus. A room that is full can keep the eyes overly stimulated causing a distraction from the task at hand which is a wonderful benefit to those who work from home. Read more about the benefits to a minimalist style in this article by Green Drop.

Choosing a Scandinavian interior design style

While this style is not for everyone, it is definitely one worth putting on your list of possibilities. It is important to remember that it is not about letting go of everything you have but realizing that it is possible to live with less. The Scandinavian interior design style is one that is versatile and can blend into multiple periods or areas within the home. It is also a style that can require a shift in our buying habits, to curb our impulse purchasing by asking yourself if you really need it and what will it add to the function and form of your home. Choosing this style brings a unique beauty to your home along with benefits for everyone. Ask your designer about Scandinavian interior design or browse places like Pinterest and Houzz for more inspiration. Home should be a place of comfort and peace which this style can help you achieve.