SCANDI STYLE
Characterised by minimalism and functionality, Scandinavian design has recently seen a surge in popularity as home-owners and interior designers increasingly incorporate the main elements into modern living spaces
Scandinavian design first emerged as a global design trend in the 1950s, following a successful tour of the Design in Scandinavia show, which captivated attendees with its range of Nordic furniture, glassware and home accessories.
During the last century, Nordic populations were subjected to long, harsh winters and subsequently spent a significant amount of time in their homes. As a rule, houses were small, so interiors were designed to be cosy, but not cramped with excess furniture. Recent Scandi-inspired trends like ‘hygge’ and ‘japandi’ perfectly reflect this style, with their focus on clean lines, functional furniture and warm textures.
Primarily, Scandinavian design is about creating a practical and calming space, so it’s ideal for bedrooms. Here we explore ways in which you can create the perfect Scandinavian-style sleep space that is both functional and stylish.
NORDIC NEUTRALS
Scandinavian design aims to achieve a light and airy feel, so when it comes to decorating your interior walls, it’s best to take the minimalist approach. Create a light backdrop by painting walls white and then incorporate other colours through furniture and soft furnishings. Varying shades of grey are very popular in Scandinavian design, as are nature-inspired shades like muted greens and beiges. There’s no rule to say you can’t incorporate bolder colours, just ensure that you apply the ‘less is more’ approach and use subtle pops of colour here and there to add interest to a predominantly neutral space.
CALM & UNCLUTTERED
Scandinavian spaces are designed to evoke a sense of calm so there is no place within a Scandi-inspired bedroom for busy, cluttered surfaces. Piles of washing, stacks of opened letters or a disorganised display of knick-knacks will only add visual distractions to the desired streamlined effect. Have a thorough spring clean and then sort through your belongings. Donate or dispose of anything you no longer want or need. Surfaces needn’t be entirely bare – one or two simple decorative pieces are ideal.
FUNCTIONAL FURNITURE
Key to a Scandinavian room design is purpose. Ornate or overly decorative pieces of furniture are a big no-no. Furniture is mainly functional, taking up as little of your room as possible to facilitate navigation. Designed to make efficient use of space whilst providing the clean lines often associated with Nordic design, fitted furniture is ideal for Scandi-style bedrooms. Bespoke in nature, it can incorporate all kinds of clever storage solutions to help keep surfaces clear from clutter and belongings organised. Scandinavian design also celebrates craftsmanship, which is exactly what you should receive if you choose bespoke furniture made by an independent maker.
INCORPORATE NATURE
The Scandinavians have a strong relationship with nature due to a historic scarcity of natural resources, and their need to work incredibly hard to obtain them. Natural, organic and sustainable materials frequently feature in Scandinavian home interiors, helping to achieve a light and airy feel. Stripped floorboards and wooden furniture are popular, and nature-inspired decorative pieces will add hints of colour and areas of interest.
Achieve the super trendy hygge look by layering soft furnishings in natural materials such as cotton, linens, hessian and sheepskin. Don’t forget about natural light! Keep windows clear and open, or dress minimally with light drapes to allow as much daylight into your home as possible.
CREATIVE CONTRASTS
Like many major interior design styles, Scandinavian design relies heavily on contrast, but this doesn’t necessarily mean using contrasting colours. A unique and creative space can be achieved through a combination of patterns, textures and shapes. Contrast old decorative items with modern sculptures, rough materials with silky soft furnishings and straight-edged furniture with curved headboards – it’s an engaging way of adding interest to an otherwise simple and minimalist space.
At Hartleys we’re specialists in maximising space, whatever the dimensions of your room. Our aim is to design an aesthetically pleasing, functional furniture layout which moulds itself around the contours of the room, leaving breathing space for easy navigation. Our range of furniture finishes includes light and airy shades as well as natural woodgrains for the perfect Scandi appeal.
If you’d like to hear more about our bespoke storage solutions, you can call us on 01756 700471, visit our Yorkshire showroom, or see us online. We’d be delighted to hear from you.
