Guest Post by Lana Hawkins
This week, guest blogger Lana, takes us through Scandinavian design and offers tips to creating this look for your home with a few simple tips. It can be so easy to add a few of these touches to your space!
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Observing the latest interior design trends around the globe, we have stopped by northern Europe in search of some Scandinavian inspiration. It is safe to say that designers from this region have worked very hard to capture the essence of Scandinavian culture and transform it into a most peculiar interior design trend. The colder climate which is quite distinguishable for this area, the intact nature and the rough Germanic influence simply rule over the complete space.
Minimalistic and yet luxurious is the best way to describe the Scandinavian style, and this can be attained through so many different home decor items, from lamps to rugs; the latter of which can be found by going to somewhere like bazaarvelvet.com, where a whole host of luxury rugs can be found in the Scandinavian style you are seeking. If you wish to add a bit more European influence into your living space, then these simple hacks will help you in your venture:
Pick the Right Colours
The sterile and distant surrounding which is so characteristic for a minimalistic design has found its way into the Scandinavian design as well, only with a minor twist. Instead of relying solely on those cold neutral colours, this design is focused on adding a bit of softness in its designs by using gentle tones that provide tranquillity in the living space. This way they are giving the sterile environment a bit of depth and warmth, but managing to keep the true essence of a minimalistic approach which is quite recognizable in the Scandinavian culture.
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Natural Is Always Better
One thing that truly characterizes this style is the use of rustic materials, which give out a natural vibe in the space. Wooden floors are the essence of every room, especially if it is light wood in question, as it contributes to the complete airy and clutter-free environment. If you decide though that wooden floors are not for you, then you could always tale a look at using a home decor tile for your floor instead. However, the blend of raw wood with the light colouring of the whole space truly gives out a special feeling to the room. This is why most Scandinavian houses are focused on using natural textures and fabrics to compliment the whole look. You may also find the need to look at new interior doors to ensure even the door works well with the colours of your room! This is just one area most people forget to look at when it comes to redecorating. There are always small accessories that will add extra definition to the room and make it feel complete. For the ultimate Scandinavian vibe a touch of sheepskin throw manages to completely tie the space together and give it a full natural glow.
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Eye for Details
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Of course, in order to break away from the whole desolate surroundings and add a bit of personality into their homes, Scandinavians have managed to combine natural with industrial and gentle with rough. The mix of raw wood and other natural fabrics with industrial materials and colours like brass and copper truly give life to this already sterile environment. The geometrical patterns, wooden antlers and leaf designs are also a common way to embellish a Scandinavian home. Another eye-catching detail is the use of mirrors around the house, as they provide depth and an illusion of a much ampler space that it really is.
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Focus On the Kitchen
When it comes to the focal points in the space, it is safe to say that the kitchen represents one of the most important parts of the house. This being said, the Scandinavian design is really focused on creating an ample, elegant and simple kitchen design. The key is in creating something glamorous but at the same time functional. The leading colour in the kitchen area is white, which overrules the complete space, not only the walls, but the appliances, floors and cabinetry as well. The only breath of fresh air is noticeable in bright wooden details and the use of industrial colouring in certain objects. Another good trick is asking the plumbers not to cover the pipes, but to leave them in the open, as the coat of steel paint can make it look like a decorative piece.
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The minimalistic approach has been gaining in popularity in the last couple of years, as more people are introducing this style into their homes. The Scandinavian design holds its roots in the minimalistic layout but manages to keep some of its authenticity, making it a unique environment that soothes every soul.
Author’s Bio: Lana Hawkins is an architecture student and an advisory editor at Smooth Decorator. She enjoys writing about interior decoration and landscaping. Lana is interested in sustainability and green building, and that’s where she gets most of her inspiration.
I Restore Stuff news:
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Happy Painting …
Sharon.