Let’s be honest: ‘Scandinavian style’ has become one of design’s most overused phrases in the past few years. While we are certainly partial to a clean, crisp aesthetic, white palette and well-made features, the concept of “scandi style” as a catch-all for minimalist European spaces is a trend we’d like to see less off.
In fact, if anything what would have been classified ‘Scandinavian style’ has matured and diversified in the past few years, leading to subgenres and styles within this wider aesthetic. We particularly like the woody palette and sleek style of the Nordic look, as seen below in this home by Joanna Laajisto. Drawing inspiration from the mature elegance of this space, here’s the pieces that make a case for moving past “scandi” to something more nuanced.
Pale Oak Floorboards
The key to any modern Nordic look is to start with some warm polished floorboards. Made from French Oak, these floorboards from Porter’s Paints are the perfect everyday solution: classic, elegant and easy.
Smith Armchair
An everyday armchair is an essential home feature; look for a simple timber form, built to endure in style and material. This raw untreated leather armchair from Barnaby Lane ticks all the right boxes.
Bubble Lamp
While this look isn’t heavy on the obvious designer pieces, one or two classic midcentury designs is key to creating the balance between refined luxury and down-to-earth practical pieces. This George Nelson lamp is used perfectly in the bedroom, its warm, balanced light casting a subtle glow.
CH20 Elbow Chair
Another midcentury classic, this timeless Hans J Wegner for Carl Hansen design can be stacked for easy storage – though why you’d ever want to hide it away is our guess! Blending traditional timber materials with a modern form, this is a winner for any interior space.
Moller Bench #63
A stalwart of Danish design, the durable yet stylish cord seat is widely revered as “life-proof”, able to withstand decades of use. Here we’ve chosen Moller’s iconic bench seat in a darker palette, adding more subtle depth to the interior palette.
Grey Linen Sheets
As the only textile that seems to look as elegant rumpled as neatly folded, linen is our go-to bedding choice. Here, slate grey linen sheets from Hale Mercantile elevate the bedlinen to a more masculine style, coupled with steel and timber details for a modern bedroom aesthetic.
AJ 50 Wall Light
The matte-black exterior and geometric shape of this Arne Jacobsen for Louis Poulsen light may look striking, but it’s complemented by the soft creamy light that flows out from the white-painted shade – just the right depth for reading in bed.
