Scandi style, our way

Mal’s website even features a blog post on his website dedicated to the topic. Titled “Five tips for creating modern Scandinavian interior design,” his tips acknowledge how form and function are the tell-tale indicators of a Scandi interior, that good lighting is key, the prevalence of warm and inviting textiles, pared-down window treatments and an emphasis on the need to minimise clutter. The post exists because of the number of locals that have embraced this design style for years – so much so that Scandi-inspired design has become somewhat synonymous with our modern interiors.

Scandinavian interior design combines utility and beauty and is easily adapted to many different lifestyles and climates – including ones that are much more tropical than polar. We are a case in point. It’s an enduring look that seems to have become synonymous with our modern style says Mal.

“Pulling it off well requires the patience and skill to match the right colour palette and source the perfect pieces,” Mal says.

While it comes from the other side of the world, many key elements of Scandinavian style do seem particularly suited to our homes and our love of casual living. It also speaks to the relaxed beachy vibe prevalent in many coastal homes.

Decorators debating whether a Scandi-themed interior will offer a desired snug aspect in winter, can follow the Scandinavian example of incorporating thick, warm textiles to soften the cool look – think furs, sheepskin and mohair. Use rugs to delineate space and toss throws over chairs and beds, and voila, warmth and cosiness are achieved. The likes of rugs, throws, cushions, timber and baskets also provide an aesthetic balance to the simple furniture and our often predominantly white and grey walls.

Rest assured there are plenty of colours that fit perfectly with this look – from the icy blue of Resene Scandi to the soothing tones of Resene Norway. Resene has a slew of dusky pastels and interesting whites and silvery grey paint colours to underpin the Scandi look. Options to try are Resene Quarter Atmosphere, Resene Double Black White, Resene Dusted Blue and Resene Duck Egg Blue.

Don’t forget about wallpaper, either. Scandinavians love it – especially in bold designs. Local decorators, on the other hand, tend to favour more tonal patterns while some go all-out with the wildest ‘conversational’ styles on offer. Both can work well; just like in other elements of Scandi style, it’s more about what you do with it and how you find the right balance that’s important. The Resene Wallpaper Collection has a huge range of colours and designs to choose from – view the full collection at your Resene ColorShop.

Mal’s top tips for decorators endeavouring to achieve the Scandi look:

• The main things needed to achieve the overall look are the product and colours. As Scandi style is generally based on a white backdrop, it’s imperative you choose the right white for the environment – our sunlight is vastly different from Scandinavia, and even differs from place to place. Therefore, you need to think carefully about the shade of white you choose, and how the light in your home will affect it. The typical Scandi-style palette is a response to the long winter months, high in the northern hemisphere, when the sun barely peeks above the horizon. Pale washes of colour on walls and floors all help to maximise and reflect the winter light. While our southern hemisphere sun spends plenty of time above the horizon, those pale washes of colour equally suit our much hotter climate and coastal living.

• Ideally the colour palette you chose should involve soft muted colours, like pastels – which is not meaning your pinks and yellows, more like soft blue/grey like Resene Longitude and Resene Envy, which is a mixture of soft grey/green.

• Stay away from ‘lolly’ pastels like yellow, bright pinks and mint greens.

• If you would like some boldness, colours like Resene Foggy Grey or Resene Triple White Pointer work well to provide balance.

• Combine furniture made of materials such as blonde ash or birch timber with natural textiles that complement your wall colour. As the inventors of Ikea, as well as many popular interior design trends, Scandinavian people take great pride in their furniture. The crux of Scandinavian interior design is clean lines made from natural materials, often with a mid-century modern twist. Furniture is functional, with comfort at its heart and clever storage and dual-purpose solutions.

• Repeat those timber colourings on floors. All truly Scandinavian interiors will have a wooden, preferably light, floor in all rooms. This is perfect for sandy jandals, so it’s a great fit for our lifestyle. White painted floors work well – consider using hard-wearing Resene Walk-on, while timber stained in Resene Colorwood Light Greywash or Resene Colorwood Whitewash are both popular options. Follow the Nordic example and add a few area rugs for a bit of colour and texture.

• Clean lines throughout the whole interior and uncluttered spaces are key. Scandinavian interior design focuses on clean, relaxing spaces decorated in neutral, natural tones. Because of this, clutter is a big no-no. Luckily, proper Scandinavian furniture incorporates clever storage solutions to ensure clutter can be kept off surfaces

• Use natural lighting where possible and avoid bringing in LED lighting as this is not a Scandinavian look. In most areas, avoid window coverings altogether or opt for simple shades in light fabrics, such as linen, where needed. The Scandinavians may like to go all-out with fur and sheepskin rugs, but you likely won’t see heavy drapes or fussy window details incorporated in their décor.

December 16, 219

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