by How to style your home with luxe Scandinavian design is a question I get asked a lot. It’s not just about throwing in a few minimalist pieces and calling it a day. It’s about creating a space that feels warm, inviting, and effortlessly chic. Let’s break it down step by step so you can nail that luxe Scandinavian vibe without overcomplicating things.
1. Start with a Neutral Base
When it comes to luxe Scandinavian design, the foundation is everything. Think light, airy, and neutral. Whites, greys, and soft beiges are your best friends here. These colours create a blank canvas that lets the rest of your decor shine.
But it’s not just about the walls. Your flooring matters too. Light wood floors are a staple in Scandinavian design. They add warmth without overwhelming the space. If you’ve got darker floors, don’t sweat it. A large, light-coloured rug can work wonders.
Furniture should follow the same rule. Stick to neutral tones for your larger pieces like sofas and beds. This doesn’t mean boring. A cream linen sofa or a grey wool armchair can still feel luxurious and inviting.
Pro tip: Layer textures to keep things interesting. Think chunky knit throws, velvet cushions, and sheepskin rugs. These add depth and cosiness without cluttering the space.
2. Embrace Minimalism, But Not Sterility
Scandinavian design is often associated with minimalism, but it’s not about creating a cold, sterile environment. It’s about simplicity and functionality. Every piece should have a purpose, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be beautiful.
Start by decluttering. Get rid of anything that doesn’t serve a purpose or bring you joy. This is the Marie Kondo approach, and it works wonders for creating a serene space.
Once you’ve pared down, focus on quality over quantity. Invest in a few key pieces that you absolutely love. A sleek dining table, a statement light fixture, or a beautifully crafted coffee table can elevate the entire room.
Don’t forget about storage. Scandinavian design is all about keeping things tidy. Built-in shelving, under-bed storage, and multi-functional furniture are your allies here.
Pro tip: Add a few personal touches to make the space feel lived-in. A stack of your favourite books, a vase of fresh flowers, or a piece of art you love can add character without overwhelming the minimalist vibe.
3. Let There Be Light
Lighting is crucial in luxe Scandinavian design. The goal is to create a bright, airy space that feels welcoming at any time of day. Natural light is your best friend, so make the most of it.
Start by keeping your windows unobstructed. Heavy curtains are a no-go. Opt for light, sheer fabrics that let the light flood in. If privacy is a concern, consider blinds or shutters that can be easily adjusted.
When it comes to artificial lighting, think layered. A combination of overhead lights, floor lamps, and table lamps creates a warm, inviting glow. Stick to simple, clean designs that complement the overall aesthetic.
Pro tip: Use mirrors strategically to bounce light around the room. A large mirror opposite a window can make a space feel twice as bright and twice as big.
4. Incorporate Natural Elements
One of the hallmarks of luxe Scandinavian design is the use of natural materials. Wood, stone, leather, and wool are all staples. These materials add warmth and texture, making the space feel cosy and inviting.
Wood is particularly important. Whether it’s a light oak dining table, a walnut coffee table, or a birch floor lamp, wood brings a sense of nature indoors. Stick to light or medium tones to keep the space feeling airy.
Stone and concrete can also work well, especially in smaller doses. A marble side table or a concrete plant pot can add a touch of luxury without overwhelming the space.
Don’t forget about textiles. Wool throws, linen cushions, and sheepskin rugs add softness and warmth. They’re also practical, making your home feel cosy during those long Scandinavian winters.
Pro tip: Add a few plants to bring life into the space. Greenery not only looks beautiful but also improves air quality. Stick to low-maintenance options like snake plants, fiddle leaf figs, or succulents.
5. Focus on Functionality
Scandinavian design is all about practicality. Every piece of furniture, every decor item, should serve a purpose. This doesn’t mean sacrificing style, though. In fact, the most functional pieces are often the most beautiful.
Think about how you use your space. Do you need a coffee table with storage? A sofa bed for guests? A desk that doubles as a dining table? Multi-functional furniture is key in a Scandinavian home.
Storage is another important consideration. Clutter is the enemy of minimalism, so make sure you have plenty of places to stash your stuff. Built-in shelving, under-bed storage, and hidden cabinets can all help keep your space tidy.
Pro tip: Don’t forget about the little things. A well-designed coat rack, a stylish key holder, or a beautiful tray for your everyday items can make a big difference.
6. Add a Touch of Luxury
Luxe Scandinavian design is all about balancing simplicity with a touch of opulence. This is where you can have a bit of fun and really make the space your own.
Start with your lighting. A statement chandelier or a sleek floor lamp can add a touch of glamour without overwhelming the space. Look for designs that are simple yet striking.
Next, consider your textiles. A velvet cushion, a silk throw, or a cashmere blanket can add a sense of luxury. Stick to neutral tones to keep things cohesive.
Finally, don’t forget about your accessories. A few carefully chosen pieces can elevate the entire room. Think a marble tray, a brass vase, or a set of crystal glasses. These small touches can make a big impact.
Pro tip: Don’t overdo it. The key to luxe Scandinavian design is subtlety. A few well-chosen pieces are all you need to create a sense of luxury.
7. Play with Texture
Texture is one of the easiest ways to add interest to a neutral space. In luxe Scandinavian design, it’s all about layering different materials to create a cosy, inviting atmosphere.
Start with your textiles. A chunky knit throw, a velvet cushion, and a sheepskin rug can all add depth and warmth. Mix and match different textures to keep things interesting.
Don’t forget about your furniture. A leather sofa, a wooden coffee table, and a metal floor lamp can all add different textures to the space. The key is to keep the colours neutral so the textures can shine.
Pro tip: Add a few tactile elements to your decor. A woven basket, a ceramic vase, or a glass candle holder can all add texture without overwhelming the space.
8. Keep It Cosy
Scandinavian design is all about creating a space that feels warm and inviting. This is especially important during those long, dark winters. The key is to focus on comfort without sacrificing style.
Start with your seating. A plush sofa, a cosy armchair, and a few floor cushions can make your living room feel like a haven. Add a few throws and cushions for extra comfort.
Next, consider your lighting. A combination of overhead lights, floor lamps, and table lamps creates a warm, inviting glow. Stick to soft, warm bulbs to create a cosy atmosphere.
Finally, don’t forget about your textiles. A thick rug, a soft blanket, and a few cushions can make all the difference. Stick to natural materials like wool, cotton, and linen for maximum comfort.
Pro tip: Add a few candles to create a warm, inviting glow. Scented candles can also add a touch of luxury.
9. Stick to a Cohesive Colour Palette
One of the keys to luxe Scandinavian design is a cohesive colour palette. This doesn’t mean everything has to be the same colour, but it does mean sticking to a few key tones.
Start with your base colours. Whites, greys, and soft beiges are all great options. These create a neutral backdrop that lets the rest of your decor shine.
Next, add a few accent colours. Soft blues, muted greens, and warm browns can all work well. Stick to a few key tones to keep things cohesive.
Finally, don’t forget about your metals. Brass, copper, and gold can all add a touch of luxury. Stick to one or two metals to keep things consistent.
Pro tip: Use a colour wheel to help you choose complementary colours. This can help you create a cohesive palette that feels balanced and harmonious.
10. Don’t Forget the Details
The devil is in the details, and this is especially true in luxe Scandinavian design. It’s the little things that can make or break a space.
Start with your hardware. Cabinet handles, door knobs, and light switches might seem small, but they can have a big impact. Stick to simple, clean designs that complement the overall aesthetic.
Next, consider your accessories. A few carefully chosen pieces can elevate the entire room. Think a marble tray, a brass vase, or a set of crystal glasses. These small touches can make a big impact.
Finally, don’t forget about your artwork. A few well-chosen pieces can add personality and character to the space. Stick to simple, clean designs that complement the overall aesthetic.
Pro tip: Don’t overdo it. The key to luxe Scandinavian design is subtlety. A few well-chosen pieces are all you need to create a sense of luxury.
Conclusion
Styling your home with luxe Scandinavian design doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s all about creating a space that feels warm, inviting, and effortlessly chic. Start with a neutral base, embrace minimalism, and let there be light. Incorporate natural elements, focus on functionality, and add a touch of luxury. Play with texture, keep it cosy, and stick to a cohesive colour palette. And don’t forget the details. With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a home that’s both beautiful and functional. How to style your home with luxe Scandinavian design is all about balance, and with a little effort, you can achieve it.
