At a Glance:
7 Scandinavian Design Ideas for Your Bedroom
Have you heard of Scandinavian design? Punctuated by elements we recognize from minimalism, Scandinavian design pioneered the use of white walls, wood floors, and modern furniture to perpetuate ideals of simplicity, function, and connection to the natural world.
Compared to other nature-invoking styles (like minimalism), Scandinavian interiors are less industrial-looking, and whereas minimalist interiors inspire their dwellers to assemble a more functional space, Scandinavian interiors encourage residents to create a livable space with a focus on comfort.
In other words, Scandinavian-inspired décor culminates into a space that makes us feel at ease as soon as we enter it—and that’s why we think your bedroom can benefit from adopting elements of this Nordic style. To that end, check out our list of Scandinavian design ideas so you can begin furnishing the bedroom of your dreams.
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Shop MattressesAbout Scandinavian Style
Scandinavian style in home design is characterized by its minimalist, functional, and aesthetically pleasing approach. Hailing from the Nordic region, this design philosophy has gained global popularity for its simplicity and focus on natural elements. Clean lines, neutral color palettes, and abundant natural light are hallmarks of this style, creating a sense of openness and tranquility in living spaces.
The Scandinavian design ethos emphasizes a strong connection to nature, often incorporating materials like wood, stone, and natural fabrics. Furniture is typically sleek and understated, showcasing craftsmanship and practicality. Functionality is paramount, with an emphasis on clever storage solutions and multi-purpose furnishings.
To create a cozy atmosphere, Scandinavian interiors often feature touches of hygge, a Danish concept that embraces warmth and contentment. Soft textiles, candles, and organic textures add a sense of comfort and intimacy.
Overall, the Scandinavian style fosters an inviting and uncluttered environment, promoting a balanced and serene living space that celebrates simplicity and the beauty of nature.
7 Scandinavian Design Ideas for Your Bedroom
Next, let's dive into how to create a comfortable Scandinavian-inspired bedroom. Here are our 7 top tips:
1. Embrace Muted Colors
In line with its dual emphasis on simplicity and comfort, Scandinavian design is recognized for its use of neutral colors, namely whites, grays, and tans, to make your space feel more uniform—and if you can believe it, brighter.
To avoid breaking from the sense of unity a neutral palette can provide, be sure to incorporate bold colors sparingly.
2. Let There Be Light
A way to foster a comforting environment is to perpetuate a sense of open space. The natural light emitted through large windows can make any room appear larger, and even if your bedroom doesn’t afford you the luxury of a large window, white walls can emphasize available light. In either case, we recommend using semi-sheer curtains or minimal window treatments to allow natural light to brighten up your bedroom during the day.
And to help you unwind at night, be sure to install plenty of lighting fixtures that cast warm light for a cozy, nighttime ambiance. In fact, lighting fixtures are hallmarks of Scandinavian décor themselves, since having accessible lighting, whether it’s on your nightstand, dresser, ceiling, and in the corner of your room is the epitome of comfort—who wants to get up when they’re already in bed?
3. Make Way for Reclaimed Wood
This Scandinavian design idea is a staple in other décor styles. Reclaimed or distressed wood in furniture and home décor mimics the multisensory experience of being outside, which satisfies an innate, human need to connect with nature. Best of all, reclaimed or distressed wood can add a warmhearted touch, giving the impression of a lived-in feel.
In terms of making your furniture selections, design experts preach that it’s important to emphasize balance so that your space doesn’t lose an ounce of uniformity. This can be accomplished through contrast in both color and texture; sheepskin rugs and chenille blankets will look even softer against warm-toned distressed wood.
4. Hang Up Statement Art
Like minimalism, Scandinavian design embraces the “less is more” mantra. A décor principle among interior designers postulates that home accents shouldn’t be smaller than a cantaloupe (it is aptly called “the Cantaloupe rule”). This operates on the belief that anything smaller is perceived as clutter, which can be a culprit of anxiety and general discomfort, even on a subconscious level.
Instead, Scandinavian design encourages decorating with larger décor pieces—but only a few. Bold, monochromatic art in particular helps create a focal point in your room, granting it depth by drawing the eye to one place.
5. Flaunt Modern Furniture
Scandinavian design and modern-style furniture go hand-in-hand. Marked by clean, straight lines and smooth surfaces, modern furniture forgoes ornate designs in favor of simplicity. In terms of colors, warm, neutral, and cool wood tones can look great in a Scandinavian-style bedroom. When you are selecting your furniture pieces, your decisions should ideally depend on how contrast and balance are sustained with your room’s textures and color scheme.
✓ Pro tip: Exposed legs on dressers, bed frames, nightstands, and chairs are esteemed for carving out open space and furthering the illusion of a larger bedroom.
6. Prop Up Some Plants
To pursue tangible contact with nature, Scandinavian décor features house plants. There is really only one rule when it comes to this Scandinavian design idea: Go for real plants, not fake ones.
While small houseplants, like some succulents, are beautiful, they can lend to a cluttered appearance. Larger indoor plants, including sprawling ivies, miniature palms, and fiddle-leaf figs, in woven planter baskets or understated pots look best, in our opinion.
7. Add Cozy Textures
As we mentioned in one of our previous Scandinavian design ideas, this Nordic style creates balance through contrast. To juxtapose the look of wood accents and furniture, soft-textured furnishings contribute to a luxe appearance and soothing environment so that you can unwind in comfy splendor.
Shaggy rugs, velvet pillows, knit blankets, and other soft accents can add intrigue to your room, offsetting the muted colors.
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Of course, the most soothing bedroom starts with a quality name-brand mattress. Check out our Mattresses catalog to explore our array of beds in a variety of sizes, materials, and comfort levels. You can experience the best sleep of your life as soon as tonight when you call or visit our friendly staff today!
FAQ
How to design a Scandinavian bedroom?
To design a Scandinavian bedroom, focus on simplicity, functionality, and natural elements. Use a neutral color palette, incorporate light-colored wooden furniture, add cozy textiles such as faux furs and knit blankets, and ensure ample natural light.
What makes a room Scandinavian?
A room becomes Scandinavian through its minimalist and uncluttered design, emphasis on natural materials like wood and stone, use of neutral colors, incorporation of ample natural light, and a strong connection to nature, creating a calming and inviting atmosphere.
What colors are in Scandinavian decor?
Scandinavian decor typically features a palette of soft, muted colors such as whites, grays, light blues, and pastel tones. These colors contribute to the airy and tranquil ambiance of the space.
What is the difference between Nordic and Scandinavian design?
Nordic design is a broader term encompassing the design styles of all Nordic countries, including Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Iceland, and Finland. Scandinavian design, on the other hand, specifically refers to the design style that originated in Denmark, Sweden, and Norway. While there are overlaps in their aesthetics, Scandinavian design tends to place a stronger emphasis on minimalism and functionality, while Nordic design may include a wider range of influences from each Nordic country's heritage.
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