Originating from the Nordic countries including Norway, Finland, Denmark, Sweden, and Iceland, and gaining prominence in the 1950s, Scandinavian style embraces simplicity while exuding elegance and allure to interior spaces through three distinctive features: minimalist design, refined sensibility, and functional usability.

Let's delve deeper into this highly popular style through the following article.

What is Scandinavian Interior Style?

You can refer to it as Nordic or Scandinavian style, and both are correct. Originating from the northern region, the land of white snow, where freezing weather persists throughout the year, people in the Nordic region pay great attention to the interior spaces of their homes. True to the spirit and culture of the Nordic people, Scandinavian interior style can be summarized in three words: "simple, cozy, and refined."

Neutral color palettes such as white, gray, and black combined with minimalist yet functional furniture create a sense of harmony and soothing aesthetics. This skillful combination brings comfort, tranquility, and relaxation to homeowners. That's why Scandinavian interior style is not only favored by the younger generation but also cherished by middle-aged homeowners.

Key Features of Scandinavian Style

While there are some similarities with Rustic interior style, such as the use of wood, stone, or neutral colors, Scandinavian style has its own distinct characteristics that you can find below.

1. Materials Used in Scandinavian Style

Wood: This is the signature material that cannot be missed when mentioning Scandinavian style, with oak being the most commonly used type. Wood is not only used in the main structures like beams and columns but also in interior design as a vital element that brings life and warmth to the apartment. Wooden accessories such as chairs, wardrobes, dressing tables... provide a rustic, simple, and close-to-nature beauty.

Stone: When combined with wood, pure white or natural stone becomes a perfect pair of "Scandinavian style" materials for the apartment, often used for wall cladding, kitchen countertops, or dining tables. The elegant, bright white beauty of stone perfectly complements the warm, sturdy nature of wood, creating unique architectural accents.

Fur: Adding a Scandinavian touch to small-sized Scandinavian-style apartments, fur makes interior spaces luxurious and is used as rugs or wall decor.

2. The Color Palette of Scandinavian Style

White is the dominant color in Scandinavian style, just like its snowy namesake. The white color gives a sense of spaciousness and enhances the perception of height. It creates a contrast that reflects light, making it especially suitable for the winter season when daylight is limited and darkness prevails.

In addition, homeowners can combine white with other color palettes such as cream, black, light gray, emerald green, etc., to reduce the monotony of the space and add a youthful, vibrant touch to the home.

3. Light - the Soul of Scandinavian Style

Light can be seen as the catalyst that elevates the emotions and living experiences of homeowners following the Scandinavian style. To capture natural light sources, most Nordic-inspired designs combine wide window frames with sheer white curtains.

Additionally, homeowners cleverly utilize artificial lighting to maintain the gentle and cozy ambiance inherent in Scandinavian style. They incorporate decorative lighting fixtures such as cloud lamps, brass pendant lights, or paper lanterns.

4. Decorative Elements

Greenery: The fresh and cool green color of plants adds a touch of freshness and reduces the overwhelming effect of the dominant white tones in Scandinavian style. Plus, who can resist some beautiful nature in their living space?

Fireplace: Adding a Northern touch to complete the architectural picture of the house.

Patterns: Following the principle of minimalism, Scandinavian patterns often include checks, stripes, or floral designs, which are applied to paintings, wall hangings, and carpets. Some homeowners have started experimenting with more intricate patterns, drawing inspiration from various cultures around the world.

5. Furniture Selection

People in the North prefer a tidy and spacious environment, so the choice and arrangement of furniture in Scandinavian interior style follows that lifestyle. Multi-functional furniture is prioritized. You can arrange modular chairs, sofas, detachable seats, wall-mounted shelves, high-rise cabinets, and more to save space. Additionally, opt for furniture made from natural materials like rattan, bamboo, contributing to an elegant and creative aesthetic.

Is Scandinavian Style Suitable for Vietnamese Homes? Exploring the Possibilities

When it comes to design and architecture, styles undergo transformations and embrace influences from various cultures and environments before gaining recognition and global acceptance. The Scandinavian style is no exception.

While some features of this style may not be directly applicable in Vietnam, such as the use of fireplaces and fur rugs in interior design, creative alternatives can be found. For instance, instead of thick fur rugs, homeowners can opt for intricately embroidered fabric sofas resembling the characteristic texture of Scandinavian rugs. Additionally, placing thin and small plush rugs beneath coffee tables in the living room can create focal points and add a touch of elegance.

For flooring options, Vietnamese homeowners can choose from a range of premium natural materials or imported industrial floors from Europe to replicate the authentic Scandinavian architectural look. Imported European flooring options in neutral tones like white or gray provide ample choices to suit various preferences. Incorporating natural light, furniture elements, white painted walls can be applied seamlessly to any space in Vietnam. In fact, Vietnam's short winter season and abundant natural light make it convenient to harness sunlight throughout the year. These elements come together harmoniously, creating an airy, free-flowing, and vibrant living space.

Scandinavian style has become a popular interior design trend in recent years. If you are curious and captivated by the allure of this Nordic style, seek out a reputable architectural interior design firm to transform your beloved home into your dreamy snow-covered sanctuary.