The rise of 'Hygge' has prompted a resurgence and love for Scandinavian Interior Style in the UK. This minimal, no nonsense trend that focuses on comfort is all about making a functional living space that is calming, and cosy.

Think sumptuous furs, natural furniture, a muted colour palette and functional spaces. Let's explore this Scandic trend further, and how you too can incorporate these influences into your home.

What Is Scandinavian Interior Style?

This interior style is characterised by simplicity, functionality, neutrality and the beauty of everyday items. It follows a design movement that originated in the nordic countries, Denmark, Sweden, Finland, Norway and Iceland.

The key elements of Scandinavian interior style are the use of natural materials through furniture. Soft textures, a muted colour palette and a fusion of both functionality and style. Scandic interiors are functional first and foremost, but they nail the 'style with substance' approach.

Scandinavian Interior Style Ideas

Muted Colour Palette

The simplicity of Scandinavian style works in harmony with a muted colour palette. Whilst white can make a space appear brighter, it will only reflect what is around it. If it's a room with little natural light you are better opting for a warmer neutral such as cream or alabaster.

Cream, alabaster, and even earthy tones are a great complement for the white, more neutral colours. Pure white throughout can make the space appear clinical which is everything that Scandic style is not. Have white or cream as a base colour and bring warmth into the space with textures and other muted shades.

Natural Materials

An important characteristic of Scandinavian homes is the use of natural materials throughout, especially natural wood. Don't just stop at flooring, these natural materials can be brought in through furniture too, with rattan or other natural material decorations to help bring further warmth into the space.

Soft Textures

Hygge is a daily practice in Denmark which focuses on a feeling of warmth and cosiness. A word which can't directly be translated into English. If Hygge was to be described it would be a a cosy nook on the sofa, with plenty of furs to snuggle into, the gentle sound of rain against the window, good company and delicious food. This state can be achieved in many ways, with a calming and functional living space helping to make it that bit easier.

Focus on bringing soft textures into living spaces and the bedroom with faux fur throws, soft textures, cushions and plush bedding for a sumptuous Scandinavian feel. Whilst muted colours are preferable, you can introduce some darker shades such as charcoal for a contrasting accent colour.

Maximise Natural Light Sources

Scandinavian countries get plunged into some of the darkest months between October and early spring, before they are met with those endless days of daylight in the summer. Getting enough natural light throughout the winter is key to keeping those spirits high, whilst boosting mental health and productivity. Because of this, maximising natural light sources is key.

Floor to ceiling windows are a pivotal feature in Scandic homes. Whilst they aren't so commonplace in the UK, try and use natural light sources to your advantage. Position desks next to windows where possible, don't obstruct windows and opt for window coverings that allow the maximum amount of light in as possible.

Thus, natural light helps your interiors too, your interiors can only reflect what is around them so natural light will help to lift what you already have too!

Keep It Minimal

As the saying goes, you are the product of your environment. The Scandic countries take this very seriously. There are proven studies that a minimal, clutter free desk helps to boost your productiveness and your mood at work. The same applies to how you feel in your home, you want to be able to relax and this isn't possible in a cluttered space.

You need to keep clutter at bay and to be organised to fall into the sync of a Scandinavian home. Your clutter doesn't need to be hidden from plain sight, it can be stored and organised in stylish drawers and baskets.

For a simplistic, yet homely update to your interiors, Scandinavian style is the perfect choice. It's an uncomplicated, no nonsense design that still brings warmth and character to an interior.