Once you know how to spot the Scandinavian design of furniture, you’ll start seeing it everywhere—your local coffee shop, the hottest new restaurant, and that new furniture store down the street.
People are crazy for the minimalist, functional look of Scandinavian style furniture. Many U.S. retailers are taking note, selling the iconic, pared-down furniture both to Millenials and their parents.
Want to get this easy, effortless look for your pad? Here’s what you need to know about Scandinavian furniture.
Characteristics of Scandinavian Furniture
Scandinavian-style furniture is usually made of wood and other natural elements like wicker and wool. The shapes are easy to identify: simple, restrained, and minimalistic. Many furniture pieces like chairs, tables, and stools will have only three legs, which usually have a tubular, tapered shape.
Most Scandinavian furniture pieces are left in a natural wood tone, or painted in a muted, neutral shade like white, beige, or gray. Clean, simple lines are used in the design of everything from dining tables to headboards.
Popular Brands of Scandinavian Furniture
We can’t talk about Scandinavian furniture without mentioning IKEA, the reigning world champion of accessible, versatile Scandinavian design. But this Swedish-born furniture store isn’t the only popular Scandinavian furniture brand. Other well-known brands include:
Josef Frank, known for his whimsical and colorful patterns
HAY, which puts a modern twist on mid-century Danish design
H&M Home, the interior-focused branch of the popular retailer
What Makes Scandinavian Furniture Different Than Other Furniture?
Scandinavian furniture stands out among other furniture styles for its minimalist look, which embraces form over function. While other design styles might be known for elaborate flourishes, bright colors, and patterns, Scandinavian style is always natural-looking and restrained. The furniture is usually made of organic and natural materials, and color and decoration are used sparingly.
What Type of Material Is Scandinavian Furniture Typically Made out Of?
Most Scandinavian furniture is made from wood and other natural elements. But what wood is used in Scandinavian furniture, specifically? Light wood like pine, oak, and spruce are most popular, but other woods like teak and birch are also used.
These lighter woods are simple in design and create a warm feeling to balance out the typically cold and long Scandinavian winters. The wood is left unpainted but can be smoothed or stained to enhance the natural beauty of the grain. Other popular furniture materials include wicker, cotton, and wool.
Incorporating Scandinavian Style at Home
Ready to add Scandinavian-style furniture to your home? Now that you’re familiar with the characteristics, materials, and popular brands, you can shop for the pieces you really love. Combine your furniture with natural light, plants, and pops of color for a finished Scandinavian look.
