Nordic-Style Decorating for Your Home

A lot of people love how the Nordic design is filling up Pinterest and architecture design pages on Facebook and other social media. Uncomplicated, clean, and simply beautiful – it makes us fantasize about making our own space bright and de-cluttered as well. If you aren’t familiar with the Nordic style, perhaps you have seen Scandinavian designs; it’s the more popular term for it but the look is exactly the same.

The Nordic design movement emerged in the post-World War II era in the five Nordic countries: Finland, Sweden, Iceland, Denmark, and Norway. The term Scandinavia only refers to the kingdoms of Norway, Sweden, and Denmark, but it is often used to refer to all the five countries. This is why the Nordic design is also known as the Scandinavian design.

The Nordic style is characterized by minimalism, simplicity, functionality, and warmth. It makes use of natural and minimal features that are comfortable and restful to the eyes, giving you a sense of the relaxing views in Nordic woods, mountains, and lakes. Incorporating clean lines, natural woods, low-key ornaments, use of light, pale neutrals and bright whites – the Nordic design looks effortlessly elegant, soothing and attractive. Think of IKEA furniture, for instance.

To recreate the Nordic style for your own home, here are some basic tips:

1. Maximize natural light.

Since it is dark and cold much of the year in Nordic countries, they try to make the most out of every drop of light. To do this, Nordic interiors use its trademark choice of white backdrop and whitewashed wood pieces. The white walls would also make you feel free to pick any color theme for your furnishings.

You also need to get rid of curtains and let the light enter. Keep windows sheer or don’t use any treatments. The interior has to be light and airy.

Choose pale or subdued colors2. Choose pale or subdued colors.

Choosing the right shades is essential for defining any design style you want to achieve. When going for the Scandinavian style, choose pale neutrals or subdued colors like pastel shades as your main color palette. Use it as colors for your furniture and fixtures to complement the snowy white backdrop.

3. Pick simple furniture with clean lines.

The Nordic design gets its specific look by featuring furniture with clean lines and simple silhouettes. If you shop at Ikea, you know what we’re saying. Modern, solid pieces of furniture define the Nordic style. This also makes a versatile choice, so it can suit any accent or fixtures, in case you would like to redecorate.

4. Showcase timber.

The Scandinavian style’s all-white-and-bright color palette is always paired with raw wood. Whether they are planks on the wall, accents on the walls or doors for the rooms, timber is used to liven up space and bring in the natural element. But don’t choose any timber – pick those that are light-colored, such as ash, pine, and beech.

5. Choose simple and low-slung seating.

Chesterfields and patterned upholstery don’t fit the Nordic style. Couches should be made of (or look like it is made of) natural fibers that are usually in neutral shades. You can add some bright or patterned cushions, but these must not draw too much attention. Chairs are sleek, closer to the ground and are all about function.

6. Add some texture.

Too much white and pale stuff can make a place feeling cold and uninviting, but adding texture would bring a homey feel the Nordic style creates. Add pillows and soft blankets; make use of cozy textiles and top of the floor with a throw rug to add a welcoming feel.

7. Use accents to add warmth.

Adding pops of bright accents would add to the inviting look of the Nordic style, making it different with the other minimal styles. For instance, a white living room with gray hardwood floor and light gray couch can be cheered up with a bright yellow dangling light fixture and striped blue throw pillows. Adding some greenery can also brighten up rooms and bring some life.

8. Accessorize with simple designs and prints.

In Nordic homes, you can often find a small element of pattern in a room with minimal style. You can mostly find stripes, graphic prints or monochrome patterns to add interest to a space.