16 Minimalist Scandinavian-Style Room Ideas

Study in Contrasts

White is the default for Scandinavian interiors, where long winters with short days make light extra precious. Interior designer Ryan Rabuska’s dining area is a symphony of whites, from the creamy warm white of the walls and ceiling to the bright cool white of the painted metal table base, to the fuzzy ecru of the sheepskin throw. Strategic touches of black snap add contrast and, especially in the case of the 8-foot pier mirror, drama to the all-white scene.

Coziness is Key

This interior design style originates from Scandinavia, which consists of Norway, Sweden, and Denmark (though Finland and Iceland are also sometimes included). Because these northern European countries often experience harsh winters and frigid temperatures, coziness (or hygge, as the Danish call it) is a key element in Scandinavian design.

In this Scandi-style living room, a plush area rug softens the wood floors, and an armchair draped with a throw blanket offers a warm spot to relax next to the wood-burning fireplace.

The Warmth of Wood

Scandinavian interiors typically avoid clutter in favor of streamlined, functional forms. Lots of white and little ornamentation give this kitchen and dining area a clean, modern sensibility. A wood island top and table introduce visual warmth and natural texture that keeps this kitchen from looking sterile.

Subtle Colors and Patterns

Scandinavian color palettes tend to be simple and subdued, with just one or two accent colors paired with a white foundation. Hints of black are often added for dimension, but otherwise, keep a Scandinavian-inspired space sparsely colored. This bedroom sitting area uses fresh greenery and layers of pattern and texture to achieve visual interest.

Wrapped in Wood

Natural textures and materials are important in Scandinavian rooms. Weathered wood floors, exposed ceiling beams, or furnishings with visible wood grain fit easily into Scandi-style rooms, as long as the overall effect remains simple. Despite its rustic architecture, this bedroom maintains a minimalist edge thanks to neutral bedding and unfussy furniture.

In Black and White

Scandinavian style works particularly well in kitchens, where functional design is paramount and clutter should ideally be kept to a minimum. In this kitchen, light wood flooring, a glazed-tile backsplash, and soapstone countertops introduce texture and contrast while maintaining an unfussy look. Wood and leather barstools add a modern touch to the timeless design.

Colors of Nature

Bright white, shades of gray, and wood tones tend to dominate Scandinavian room color schemes, but there’s room for more colorful designs, too. Soft pastels and earth tones can introduce warmth and personality to an otherwise sparse interior. In this dining room, moss green walls combine with antique wood furniture and natural accents for a rustic take on Scandi style.

Minimalism Rules

Sparse accessorization is fundamental to the Scandinavian aesthetic. To achieve a clean and simple look, avoid overcrowding Scandinavian rooms with furniture, and choose decorative accessories carefully. When decorating walls, select one statement-making piece of art, such as the oversized animal photo above this fireplace, instead of a gallery wall.

Classic Chairs

Scandinavian furniture designs often showcase sleek, sculptural forms. For example, the Hans Wegner wishbone chairs in this dining room are a Scandinavian classic with an elegantly curved wood frame. Two are painted red for an extra jolt of color that ties in with the floral-patterned wallpaper.

Ethereal Bedroom

The clean, cozy aesthetic brings a calming sense to bedrooms. In this bedroom, shades of white cover the walls, ceiling, trim, and bedding for a bright, airy look. The floors are left bare so as not to cover up the wood’s texture and warmth.

Simple Small Spaces

Scandinavian design is well suited for small spaces where excess decoration could easily overwhelm the room. In this dining nook, a minimalist color scheme and streamlined, Scandi-style furniture help make the tight space appear larger. Simple wall decor and an assortment of neutral pillows layer in additional personality without contributing visual clutter.

Playing with Scale

Maintaining a minimalist, Scandi-inspired look doesn’t mean sacrificing personality. This dining room’s mix of artwork and mismatched chairs still feels streamlined, thanks to the pared-down color scheme. Oversized pendants make a stylish statement above the table, but the open weave prevents the fixtures from blocking light or appearing too visually heavy.

Geometric Patterns

Within a neutral color scheme, patterns bring visual interest. Striped bedding, a geometric area rug, and shiplap-paneled walls introduce character to this minimalist Scandi bedroom. Styled with simple accessories and finished with patterned pillows, this look is so easy to replicate.

Mixed Wood Tones

Blonde wood furnishings are closely associated with Scandinavian style, delivering natural texture without the heaviness of dark stains. This Scandi-inspired dining room juxtaposes light-toned wood furniture with dark espresso flooring for rich contrast. Large drum pendants contribute a warm, cozy glow.

Let in the Light

Maximizing natural light helps a room appear bright and open, even in the dark of a Scandinavian winter. In this living room, hanging curtains high, nearly at the ceiling, draws the eye toward the sliding-glass doors and can be thrown open to let in as much light as possible. Low-slung, clean-lined chairs offer comfy seating that doesn’t block too much light.

Utilitarian Can Be Beautiful

Apply Scandinavian style to your workspace for an uncluttered look that encourages focus. Keep decor as pared-back as possible and display mostly utilitarian objects like file holders and storage baskets. Choose work-surface accessories in simple shapes so as not to disrupt the uncluttered vibe of the room.