Scandinavian style is one of my favorite interior design aesthetics — it’s a great way to add a light and airy, yet warm and inviting look to any space. With that in mind, I’m sharing some simple tips on how to add a touch of Scandinavian design to your home in 2025, with images of beautiful room ideas, decorating inspiration, styling tips, and more.
One of the reasons I wanted to explore modern Scandinavian style is that it’s surprisingly similar to modern coastal decor, making it the perfect complement to the other light and airy styles I share here on Jane at Home.
Whether you’re designing a new house or updating your current home, I hope you’ll find all sorts of helpful ideas and inspiration in today’s post.
First, What is Scandinavian Style?
When you think of Scandinavian style interiors, you probably picture serene, light-filled rooms with minimal décor and cozy textures.
This sought-after design trend has been steadily gaining popularity over the past few years. What makes it so appealing?
Modern Scandinavian style is not only visually striking but also deeply rooted in functionality and comfort—two qualities that make everyday living easier and more enjoyable.
Known for its simplicity, and connection to nature, Scandinavian design emphasizes clean lines, muted colors, and natural materials like wood, wool, sheepskin, and leather.
Modern Scandinavian style, sometimes called Scandi minimalism or Nordic design, is all about clean lines, bright open spaces, and a “less is more” philosophy.
Scandinavian interior design emphasizes:
1. Neutral color palettes
Think soft whites, grays, and beiges, often punctuated by subtle pops of color through natural elements or pastels.
2. Natural elements
Wood floors, simple wooden furniture, and organic textiles like linen, cotton, or wool rugs are a signature of Scandinavian homes.
3. Minimalism with warmth
While a clutter-free environment is key, Scandi style doesn’t feel cold. Plush throws, textured pillows, and hygge (coziness) accessories bring warmth and comfort.
4. Functionality
Every item typically has a purpose. Scandinavian design champions efficient use of space and practical storage solutions.
Pure Salt Interior Design – chairs
Pure Salt Interior Design – dining chairs – pendant
Similarities Between Scandinavian Design and Modern Coastal Style
Just like Scandinavian style, modern coastal interior design is light, minimal, and fresh, with bright whites and neutral backgrounds for a feeling of calm and spaciousness.
Pure Salt Interior Design – similar sectional here and here – similar coffee table here
Inspired by the organic colors and textures of nature, modern coastal decor might include light woods, baskets, natural fiber rugs, woven light fixtures, various shades of blue, gray, white, and neutrals, and easy-care fabrics like cotton and linen — all of which are shared with Scandinavian interiors.
The Lily Pad Cottage – pendant – stools
Both styles also avoid heavy ornamentation and focus on creating laid-back, welcoming spaces — which is why I’m such a fan of these two design styles.
Pure Salt Interior Design – chairs
However, where coastal decor embraces tones like ocean blues and sandy beiges, Scandinavian decor often incorporates cooler grays or muted pastels.
For more on modern coastal interior design, see my post, Modern Coastal Decorating Ideas for Your Home.
How to Bring Scandinavian Style to Your Home
1. Start with a clean slate
Declutter surfaces and remove any unnecessary items, as Scandinavian style is defined by open spaces and minimal decor.
Pure Salt Interiors – dining chairs – pendant
Think: an uncluttered coffee table, streamlined shelving, and hidden storage solutions.
2. Focus on neutral tones
A base of white or very light beige walls allows natural light to bounce around, making your space feel larger.
Incorporate light-toned wood floors or furniture to add character and warmth.
3. Layer in cozy textiles
Texture is crucial to prevent your home from feeling stark, so add in some chunky knit throws, soft faux sheepskin rugs, or plush cushions in neutral hues.
These comfort-driven details are integral to achieving that “hygge” atmosphere Scandinavian design is known for.
4. Keep the decor simple
A few minimalist art prints, a statement pendant lamp, or a single piece of modern furniture can anchor the room.
Avoid clutter by choosing pieces that serve both form and function.
5. Bring in greenery
Lush potted plants or fresh cut stems add life to neutral interiors and enhance the connection to nature that Scandinavian homes embrace.
6. Add subtle color
While neutral palettes rule in Scandinavian design, you can introduce subtle colors—like dusty pink, sage green, or sky blue, perhaps through throw pillows or home accents for a fresh look.
Janette Mallory Interiors – woven pendant
Scandinavian Interior Design and Decor Ideas for Your Home
Below, you’ll find beautiful Scandinavian inspired interiors showing how to incorporate fresh, contemporary Nordic style decor in different rooms in your home.
Modern Scandinavian living room ideas
Simple Furniture Pieces: Stick to modern silhouettes with tapered legs, neutral upholstery, and minimal ornamentation.
Area Rugs: Soften hardwood or tile floors with a plush area rug in a subtle pattern or neutral shade.
This adds comfort and texture without distracting from the serene overall look.
Statement Lighting: A sculptural pendant or floor lamp in muted metal or natural materials (like rattan) can double as functional art in the room.
For more living room ideas, see my post, 2025 Living Room Trends and Decor Ideas.
Modern Scandinavian Kitchen Ideas
Bright, White Cabinets: Achieve a crisp, clean look with white cabinetry.
Pure Salt Interiors – similar pendant lights – similar counter stools
Pair it with a light-toned wood countertop or island to add warmth.
The Cabinet Gallery Utah – Cambridge Home Co. – lantern pendants
Showcase neat stacks of plates, glassware, or rustic ceramic vases. This creates a casual, inviting vibe reminiscent of Nordic cafés.
Minimal Hardware and Fixtures: Opt for sleek brushed metal or matte black faucets and cabinet handles to maintain a streamlined appearance.
For more kitchen ideas, see my post, 2025 Kitchen Trends and Design Ideas You Will Love.
Brandon Architects – Brooke Wagner Design – Patterson Custom Homes
Scandinavian Bedroom Ideas
Scandinavian style’s emphasis on simplicity and coziness resonates with the growing desire for homes that are both serene and practical.
Pure Salt Interior Design – rug
Neutral Linens: Crisp white bedding, layered with a white, gray, or beige duvet, brings an instant Scandi feeling to your space.
A bench or settee at the foot of the bed provides extra functionality and coziness.
Warm Wood Details: Light-toned wooden bed frames or nightstands create visual interest without overpowering the space.
Soft, Ambient Lighting: Incorporate bedside lamps or pendant lights with warm bulbs to foster a tranquil atmosphere—perfect for winding down after a long day.
For more bedroom ideas, see my post, 2025 Bedroom Ideas and Trends for a Dreamy Master Suite.
I’m sure it’s clear by now I love Scandinavian style interiors! In my opinion, adding a touch of modern Scandinavian design to your kitchen, bedroom, living room, and home results in a stylish, timeless space.
Whether you’re drawn to its minimalist, light and airy aesthetic or its cozy, nature-focused aspects, modern Scandinavian style has timeless appeal for any space, and embracing a modern, functional, and beautiful Nordic-inspired design has never been more achievable.
Its similarities to modern coastal style — especially its emphasis on relaxation, natural materials, and clean lines — make Scandinavian design a wonderful choice for any home.
I hope you found this post helpful and informative. Please let me know if you have any questions about bringing a touch of beautiful Scandinavian style to your home. Have a wonderful day! xo Jane
Where to Shop for Scandinavian Style Decor and Furniture
Experimenting with Scandinavian style home decor doesn’t have to break the bank. Below are a few of my favorite places to shop for Scandinavian style decor:
IKEA
For more interior design ideas and styles, home decor trends, and modern coastal style, here are a few favorite related posts from the blog:
2025 Interior Design Trends: Beautiful Home Decor Ideas You Will Love
Beautiful Kitchen Trends and Design Ideas for 2025
Modern Coastal Kitchen Ideas and Trends for 2025
Modern Beach House Decorating Ideas for Your Home
A Simple Guide to Mixing Metals in the Kitchen
Modern Kitchen Pendant Lighting Ideas You Will Love
Stylish Coffee Bar Ideas and Trends for 2025
California Casual Style Decorating Ideas for Your Home
Modern Coastal Decorating Ideas for Your Home
Color of the Year 2025 + Top Home Color Trends
What is Coastal Grandmother Style? (and why I’m loving this trend)
How to Get the Restoration Hardware Look in Your Home
How to Get the Nancy Meyers Aesthetic in Your Home
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