The Enduring Allure of Scandinavian Interior Design

Admired for its simplicity and calming effects within the home, Scandinavian design has experienced prolonged popularity and a strong resurgence during the pandemic. The home should feel like a soothing refuge from the surrounding chaotic world, and no style helps to achieve this better than Scandinavian design. Read on to find out what Hickory Hardware collection will be perfect for your next Scandinavian-inspired design project!

Karimoku Case Study — Azabu Residence by Keiji Ashizawa Design and Norm Architects

A serene neutral color palette, raw and natural materials with a focus on minimalistic design and craftsmanship are a vital part of Scandinavian design philosophy. This style is one of the more widely accessible and easily attainable, but it can be difficult for the typical consumer to know when to edit down. It’s easy enough to grab this or that to create a Scandinavian feel, but equally important is knowing what and when to omit the abundant accumulation of things for things’ sake. Finding balance is key, as Norm Architects put it best, “when there’s nothing more to either add or take away.”

Scandinavian design is often intersected by mid-century modern style and Japanese minimalism. This has been exemplified recently by the Azabu Residence project, a collaboration between Japanese firm, Keiji Ashizawa Design and Norm Architects, based in Copenhagen.

Karimoku Case Study — Azabu Residence by Keiji Ashizawa Design and Norm Architects

In these previous examples we can see the harmony of Scandinavian-inspired furniture pieces with a touch of Japanese minimalism in ikebana-esque botanical arrangements and the paper lantern-like ceiling pendant.

OWIU — Biscuit Loft via Forbes

A common feature of Scandinavian inspired interiors are the addition of mid-century modern pieces like the iconic Eames Lounge Chair seen above. Mid-century modern designs meld beautifully with Scandinavian interiors because they both share an appreciation for the beauty of wood grain and high quality craftsmanship. Mid-century modern buffets, media consoles and coffee tables would slot right into any Scandinavian space.

Oliver Du Puy — M Penthouse

The play of light is also high on the list of importance. Many Scandinavian countries experience a lot of cloudy days and gloomy weather throughout the year. Bright interiors with light maximized by skylights, unobstructed windows and an overall airy layout help to lift and calm spirits when cooler weather comes.

Vipp

Proctor & Shaw — Shoji Apartment

MENU — Brasilia Lounge Chair & Ottoman by Anderssen & Voll

Natural materials and colors are also a hallmark of Scandinavian interior style. Fine wool rugs and Icelandic sheepskin to add textural elements, airy linen curtains, wood flooring and cabinetry as well as marble are commonly seen. Colors echo the natural world with white, beige, creams, grays and browns being popular. These neutral color palettes help to make Scandinavian design timeless.

SSM

@interior_ideas_home

For the perfect compliment to Scandinavian interiors and mid-century modern design pieces, look no further than the Maven collection with its elegant tapered legs and rounded forms. Maven is also available in two different unique knob styles to choose from as well as a substantial wall hook.

Maven in Brushed Golden Brass

Consider incorporating Maven hooks to update a mudroom area, or Maven knobs for a quick and easy closet door refresh!

Maven in Matte Black

Maven is also great for updating that MCM (mid-century modern) piece of furniture or bathroom vanity.

Refurbished Furniture featuring Maven in Brushed Golden Brass by @julie_simpleredesign

Maven in Brushed Golden Brass

Maven in Matte Black

The entire collection is available in four finishes, including Chrome, Satin Nickel, Brushed Golden Brass and Matte Black. Compare above from top to bottom: Matte Black, Brushed Golden Brass, Satin Nickel and Chrome. Shop the entire Maven collection here!

Be sure to tag us on any upcoming Hickory Hardware project. If you think Maven will be perfect for your next kitchen and bath remodel, we’d love to hear from you over on Instagram @hickoryhardware.