Basics of Scandinavian Design

Scandinavian design lives by the motto “less is more”; everything in your space is there for a reason, and it should matter. Learn the basics of Scandinavian design and how to make it elegant and purposeful in this video by The Design Network:

The Scandinavians do black and white better than everyone. Because for most of the year the land is covered with white, the exteriors – and interiors – are done in black in severe and beautiful ways. While you may be scared of black walls, you just need to create balance as you would with any other color. Bring in a lighter colored floor or area rug and neutral sofas and chairs. Use gray instead of beige; think driftwood and docks. Pair gray neutrals with pops of color. Unify eclectic spaces with black.

Beyond black and white, the real Scandinavian design story is told through textures like leathers, metals, tassels, fringe, and rope (nets, knots, macrames). Add printed linens for a soft textured look.

Bringing in natural wood tones and textures, ferns, flowers, dried roots and rustic woods into your house is also prominent in Scandinavian style. Think butcher block for countertops.