With the temperatures continuing to drop, if there’s one thing we’re craving, it’s a place to cosy up during the winter. And when it comes to creating spaces that can beat the winter blues, we can all learn a thing or two from the Scandinavians. Considering how they’re living in some of the coldest places in the world, Scandinavians seem to have found the formula for decorating homes that are bright, cosy and inviting. So, if you’re planning to redecorate your home this season, here are some reasons to go Scandinavian.

It Emits Warmth

While they may be clean and minimalist, Scandinavian spaces should include a variety of textures that can make the space warm and intimate. So, try sprinkling some cosy home decor items such as plush pillows, soft cowhide rugs and bamboo throws which can help keep you warm for the winter and also provide the space with some visual accent. Although this style is minimalist and as such is best left with a small amount of décor, you are free to include all of these decorative pieces since they also have a practical purpose. You can also, incorporate other homewares that emit warmth and create intimacy in one way or another, such as dimmable lighting fixtures or scented candles that flicker.

It Floods the Space with Light

As the days become shorter and gloomier, there will be less natural light entering the space. However, the Scandinavian style is known for its ability to make interiors look brighter. This style demands that the walls are white and clean, which as a result amplifies the light around the room. Additionally, you should avoid using hard window treatments and heavy curtains which can reduce the amount of light getting in. And when it comes to artificial lights, try using large chandeliers and other noticeable fixtures which are made of metal and can reflect light. Another great way to increase the light in the room is with strategic use of mirrors, like for instance behind a lamp.

It Creates a Soothing Atmosphere

The clean, white walls can feel too cold unless they are properly softened. With that being said, Scandinavian spaces often feature a colour palette dominated by earthy tones such as brown, grey, black and cream, and small hints of pastels. You can use earthy neutrals for the larger elements in the room, such as the furniture and windows, and pastels in the form of small home décor items. As a result, the space isn’t overwhelmed with colour and actually has a soothing feel to it, perfect for spending your weekends curled up in a blanket on the sofa.

Scandinavian interior design is famous for its clean and simplistic attitude. It demands that furniture and decorative items are kept to the bare minimum in order to increase the amount of open space and support movement in the home. But even with fewer things, you won’t find yourself lacking something because this is Scandinavian furniture we’re talking about. And Scandinavian modern design furniture is often built to serve several functions like for instance, an ottoman that doubles as hidden storage, or an extending dining table which allows you to add extra seats when needed.

However, simplicity doesn’t only refer to cutting back on the things you own. It also refers to the clean and simplistic aesthetic of Scandinavian which is perfect if you want to fill your home with calmness and a Zen-like atmosphere. And what colour is more calming than white? For this reason, white walls are the predominant feature of this style. They serve to make the space feel lighter and look larger visually and allow the modern design furniture with sleek lines to grab more attention. As for the windows, they are best left bare or partially covered with a sheer curtain that allows for light to filter through and flood the space.

Although the colour palette is dominated by white, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t feel free to include other colours as well. In fact, a palette of neutral tones and touches of pastel can give the white backdrop more depth. The rule goes that big furnishings should come in neutral colours such as cream, grey, brown, or black, whereas décor and smaller furniture pieces like ottomans can come in pastels. As a result, your space will feature plenty of colours while still feeling visually balanced out.

Besides the dominance of white and neutral colours, another characteristic of Scandinavian style that makes the home feel more serene is the connection to nature. Drawing inspiration from the great outdoors, Scandinavian modern design furniture is made of quality hardwoods such as oak, maple or walnut. The colours and textures of these woods give the space a warm and cosy feel. The same goes for the floors as well, which are usually made of wide-planked hardwood. The use of indoor plants as décor is strongly encouraged in this style. Additionally, you can also include some modern metallic touches in the form of brass lighting fixtures.