Introduction to Scandinavian Furniture
Scandinavian furniture is delightful, gorgeous, and functional. That’s why it’s the best. Fight me. Anyone, anyone? Actually, it might be hard to find any takers. There’s a general feeling that Scandinavian design creates some of the most attractive and unique furniture you’ll find on the market today. Many of the major elements of this style were introduced to the US in the 1950s and 1960s. And they’ve remained popular for their simplicity, utility, and beauty. Scandinavian furniture is the perfect blend of warm functionality, clean lines, flawless craftsmanship, and understated elegance. Caught your attention? We’ve got some tips on capturing the look for your own space.
Scandinavian Furniture Basics
Scandinavian furniture is easy to recognize. Many of the pieces feature simple lines, as well as engaging shapes. In fact, Scandinavian design played an out-sized role in the rise of mid-century modernism, as both are characterized by minimalism and simplicity. But Scandinavia has the longer claim on stripped-down style, growing out of a regional tradition of minimalist furniture. And modern Scandinavian design is no different. Many of the pieces maintain the traditional organic appeal and lightness that are hallmarks of the region. You can also identify Scandinavian furniture by its excellent build quality. It is usually hand-crafted and often features high-quality finishes.
The Foundation of Scandinavian Design
But that only covers how the furniture looks. How does it all fit together? One of the things that’s easy to notice with Scandinavian interiors is the space seems to hang all together. That’s because every piece serves a purpose. And its the reason Scandinavian design maintains its contemporary appeal, despite its traditional roots. When functionality is the highest aim, then there’s little waste and keeping things clean is a breeze. This style creates clean and uncluttered interiors.
Are you into neutral colors? Then you’re in the right place. Scandinavian furniture and interiors tend to go with cool tones, such as a soft grey. Rooms are often painted in white, as well as a distinctive blue that has caught on with contemporary expressions of the style.
Another feature of Scandinavian interiors is their love of nature. This is expressed in a couple of ways. First, plants play a big role, as well as big windows. Incorporating reminders of the outdoors inside is vital. Remember, this is a region with severe winters. Folks need all the help they can get surviving staying indoors for half a year. Secondly, many of the design are made of organic materials. In other words, there is going to be a lot of wood furniture. Other materials include wool, cotton, and fur. Your furniture will look as good as it feels!
How to Find the Best Scandinavian Furniture
Ready to start adding to your Scandinavian furniture collection? Start with a sofa, creating a focal point you can build from over time. After you find the perfect sofa, finish off your living room. There the style is rich with designs. You’ll discover plenty of chairs, sideboards, coffee tables, end tables, and other corresponding pieces to complete the room.
Next up is the dining room. Start with a large dining table. Then invest in a set Scandinavian inspired chairs with their distinctive thin legs. As you put together each room, you may notice another feature of this style. Scandinavian design is all about socializing and entertaining, placing focus on creating spaces that can accommodate many guests. But it isn’t necessary to always go big. Also remember, especially if you’re on a tight budget, that quality is more important quantity. How can you tell the difference? Quality pieces are crafted with solid construction from robust materials. That’s why the best Scandinavian is perfect for daily use; it will stand the test of time.
There’s a reason Scandinavian designs have always had a distinctive place in people’s hearts. And they continue to remain on trend even as interior trends shift and evolve. Nothing diverts our attention from the hustle and bustle of our daily lives better than the interior tranquility of Scandinavian design. The region even has distinct word for the creature comforts of home: hygge. With eco-friendly furniture on the rise, Scandinavian furniture’s long-term appeal is assured. It has an organic and eco-sustainable quality that will keep it a mainstay of interiors for years to come.
