Your Guide to Scandi Interior Design

Scandi design is an abbreviation of Scandinavian design, Scandinavia being the collective name for Denmark, Sweden, and Norway where long, dark winters inspired a focus on light, comfort, and practicality.

Emerging in the early 20th century, this style became a defining feature of the mid-century modern movement, championing clean lines, natural materials, and functional design. Scandi design represents the beauty found in function (or, as Swedish brand IKEA puts it, “The Wonderful Everyday”; it’s a style that helps people from all walks of life find ways to bring joy to the every day via useful, elegantly made furniture. It is a globally popular and achievable aesthetic that works well alongside other styles.

Scandi interior design is all about creating a harmonious blend of simplicity, functionality, and coziness. Here are the essential elements that define this timeless aesthetic:

Scandi spaces are known for their airy feel, achieved through soft, neutral tones like white, cream, light gray, and beige. These shades amplify natural light and create a calming backdrop that lets other design elements shine.

Visit our Scandi design inspiration board on Pinterest for more ideas on Scandi colors.

Scandi design embraces the outdoors with elements like large windows to let in natural light and the inclusion of greenery through potted plants or fresh flowers. Incorporating materials like light woods, leather, wool, and linen brings warmth, texture, and authenticity to the space, creating a grounded and organic feel.

The concept of hygge, a Danish term that embodies the feeling of coziness and contentment, plays a significant role in shaping Scandi interiors. Plush rugs, knitted throws, and soft cushions add layers of texture and warmth, making spaces feel inviting and comfortable, especially during colder months.

Less is more in Scandi interiors. Spaces are uncluttered and thoughtfully curated, with each item serving a purpose. This minimalist approach keeps the environment serene and functional while allowing the beauty of individual pieces to stand out.

Scandi interiors share similarities with other minimalist styles, but their unique blend of functionality and warmth sets them apart.

Japandi style combines the simplicity of Scandi design with the elegance of Japanese aesthetics. While both styles emphasize minimalism and natural materials, Japandi often incorporates darker, moodier tones and Zen-inspired details. According to Google Trends, interest in Japandi design has grown significantly since January 2021, making it a popular choice for those who want a slightly more dramatic take on Scandinavian simplicity.

You can visit our Japandi Interior Design Guide for more information on this popular aesthetic.

Scandi and minimalist styles share a love for simplicity and functionality, but they differ in approach and atmosphere. Minimalism is all about reducing to the essentials, often resulting in clean, stark spaces with a focus on form and function. It prioritizes monochromatic color schemes, sleek lines, and an almost architectural precision. While Minimalism emphasizes restraint, Scandi style balances functionality with inviting, lived-in elements, making it feel more welcoming and homely.

Scandi and Nordic styles share a foundation in simplicity, functionality, and natural materials, but they differ in focus and mood. Nordic style, encompassing all five Nordic countries, including Finland and Iceland, adds a rugged, nature-inspired touch with darker, moodier tones, raw materials like stone and untreated wood, and more eclectic, textured elements. While Scandi feels light and serene, Nordic carries a bolder, more grounded connection to the outdoors.

Transforming your home into a Scandi-inspired haven is easier than you think. This timeless style focuses on simplicity, functionality, and a cozy atmosphere, making it perfect for any space. Here’s how to bring the beauty of modern scandinavian interior design into your home:

The foundation of Scandi design is a light, neutral color palette that maximizes natural light and creates a serene backdrop. Opt for shades like crisp white, soft beige, or light gray for your walls and ceilings. To add subtle depth, consider incorporating a Scandinavian-inspired wood-effect wall mural, such as our Alpine design, which introduces texture and visual interest without overpowering the room.

Catherine Jacob, Head of Design at Hovia advises, “To avoid a cold and clinical feeling, pare barely-there wallpaper patterns to add depth such as Lamella or subtle wallpaper mural with a nature-inspired element such as Chalk. Heavy textured fabrics are essential for adding warmth, bring in throws and rugs to make the space feel really cozy.”

Scandi style is all about purposeful design. Choose furniture with clean lines and practical features that enhance both form and function. A sleek wooden coffee table with hidden storage or a modular sofa that adapts to your needs are perfect examples. Every piece should serve a purpose while complementing the overall aesthetic of your space.

Bring the outdoors in by incorporating natural materials and textures, or by choosing a nature inspired wallpaper such as our Grove forest wallpaper. Light woods like oak or birch are staples of Scandi design and can be used in furniture, shelving, or decor. Pair them with soft, organic textiles like wool throws, cotton cushions, or leather accents. To freshen up the space, add potted plants, small succulents, or a bouquet of fresh flowers for a touch of greenery.

Comfort is key to achieving that hygge vibe in your Scandi-inspired space. Layer different textures to create warmth and depth. Add plush throws over your sofa, drape linen curtains over windows to diffuse light, and include soft, fluffy rugs underfoot. These layers not only make the space inviting but also create a sense of relaxed sophistication.

In Scandinavian interiors, lighting is more than just functional—it’s a mood enhancer. Use a mix of warm-toned lighting sources, like pendant lights, floor lamps, or candles, to create a cozy ambiance. Soft lighting balances the neutral palette and adds an inviting glow to your space.

Window treatments are kept minimal, often using sheer fabrics like linen or muslin—or sometimes omitted altogether—to let in as much sunlight as possible, ensuring the space feels fresh, inviting, and effortlessly bright.
Catherine Jacob, Head of Design at Hovia says, “One of the most noticeable attributes of Scandi design is the light and airy feeling the style creates. Bright walls and pale woods make the space feel brighter, especially in those darker winter months.”

Finally, embrace the “less is more” philosophy. Avoid clutter and focus on a few carefully selected decor pieces that complement the space. Storage solutions like woven baskets or sleek cabinets keep essentials tucked away, maintaining the clean, uncluttered aesthetic that defines Scandi style.