Scandi Style Living Room

by jowe March 31, 2024

Table of Contents

Bringing Calm and Comfort: A Guide to Scandi-Style Living Room Design

The Scandinavian design aesthetic, also known as Scandi style, has risen in popularity in recent years. It’s a philosophy that embraces simplicity, functionality, and a connection to nature, all wrapped up in a clean and modern look. A Scandi-style living room is a perfect embodiment of these principles, creating a space that’s both stylish and incredibly inviting.

Key Elements of Scandi Style

Neutral Color Palette: Light and airy colors are a hallmark of Scandi design. Whites, beiges, and grays form the foundation, with pops of black for contrast. This light and bright approach makes even small living rooms feel spacious and airy.

Natural Materials: Wood is the hero of Scandi design, bringing warmth and texture to the space. Light-colored woods like ash and oak are most commonly used, with pops of darker woods like walnut for contrast. Leather, sheepskin, and wool are also popular choices, adding a touch of cozy comfort.

Clean Lines and Functionality: Simple, uncluttered lines are key to achieving the Scandi look. Furniture tends to be low-profile and sleek, with clean silhouettes that avoid visual clutter. Every piece should also serve a purpose, reflecting the Scandinavian emphasis on functionality.

Natural Light: Light is essential in Scandi design, as it helps create a bright and airy feel. Large windows are a must-have, allowing ample natural light to flood the space. Sheer curtains or blinds help diffuse the light while maintaining a sense of openness.

Hygge (pronounced hoo-ga): A core concept in Scandinavian design is hygge, the Danish word for a feeling of coziness and contentment. This is achieved through warm lighting, soft textures, and an overall sense of comfort and relaxation.

Creating Your Scandi-Style Living Room

Furniture:

Invest in a few high-quality pieces that are both stylish and functional. A comfortable sofa is a must-have, in a light-colored fabric or leather. Look for pieces with clean lines and natural wood legs.

A low-profile coffee table made of wood or glass is ideal for a Scandi-style living room. You can also incorporate a sheepskin rug or throw blanket for added warmth and texture.

Consider adding an armchair or two in a contrasting color or material to add visual interest. Woven baskets are a great way to add storage for blankets or throws while maintaining a clean aesthetic.

Decor:

Keep decor minimal and focus on a few statement pieces. Artwork with clean lines and natural themes is a great choice. Mirrors can help bounce light around the room, making the space feel larger.

Houseplants are a great way to bring nature indoors and add a touch of life to the space. Choose plants that thrive in low light conditions, such as snake plants or fiddle leaf figs.

Candles are a key element in creating a hygge atmosphere. Opt for soy or beeswax candles for a clean burn and natural fragrance.

Lighting:

Utilize plenty of natural light whenever possible. In the evenings, employ a mix of ambient and task lighting. Floor lamps with clean lines and pendant lights hung over the coffee table are good options. String lights can also add a touch of whimsy and warmth.

Textiles:

Rugs made of wool, sheepskin, or jute add warmth and texture to the space. Choose rugs in neutral colors or with geometric patterns.

Throw blankets and pillows in soft textures like wool, faux fur, or cable knit add a cozy touch.

By incorporating these key elements and focusing on creating a space that is both stylish and comfortable, you can achieve a beautiful and inviting Scandi-style living room that will be a joy to relax in.