The characteristic, geometric building blocks are modest in form and devoid of decorative elements. The severe character of the masses is perfectly softened by the use of wood – a material easily available and commonly used in Scandinavia. White and grey are the classic colours of the facade. On their background stands out intense red, not without reason associated with coastal towns of Sweden and Norway.
When we think of Scandinavia, the sight of tightly packed red houses with sloping roofs directly on the sea often comes to mind. Here, too, the Scandinavians’ practical approach is perfectly evident. Due to the large wooded areas, the unfavourable climatic conditions and the poor soil, only a small part of the land is suitable for building, which is why it is so important to make use of every centimetre and to provide functional solutions.
In Scandinavian construction, an important role is played by a large number of windows and numerous glazings, which make the rooms well lit. This is important in a climate where darkness falls quickly in winter and a lack of daylight is acutely felt.
Scandinavian means minimalist?
Don’t be fooled by appearances. Minimalist and Scandinavian styles definitely have more in common than they do. Nevertheless, they are often confused with each other. This common mistake results from the fact that both styles are characterised by great functionality, simplicity and economy of form. The fact that Scandinavian style practically does not exist in its “pure” form does not make the task easier. Currently applied solutions loosely refer to its original, austere character.
Minimalism is the result of conscious resignation from a surplus of things, especially from objects that do not have any useful function. An ascetic form, limited colour palette (often monochromatic), the use of metal, plastic and concrete and the deprivation of decorative elements from the surroundings are characteristic of this style. This is why minimalist interiors usually appear refined and elegant, but also cool and inaccessible.
What is Scandinavian style?
If it wasn’t for the Scandinavians we would never have heard of Hygge! The core of this life philosophy, which originated in Scandinavia, is finding happiness in small, everyday activities: meetings with family and friends, a walk in the woods, a cup of aromatic coffee in a cosy, warm interior. The simplest thing to say about Scandi style is that it is consistent with this philosophy and responds well to the authentic needs of Scandinavians and others. Regardless of the latitude, there is no shortage of people who want and are able to enjoy the moment and the presence of loved ones.
In Scandinavian style purity of form and moderation, manifesting itself in the reluctance to clutter the room with unnecessary objects, are of great importance, but in contrast to the minimalist style, the interior should be, above all, comfortable and cosy. How to achieve such an effect? First of all, thanks to materials such as wood and natural fabrics.
Natural materials
When choosing flooring, opt for light-coloured panels or parquet planks, preferably in beech, pine or ash, finished with matt varnish or oil, which will emphasise the natural colour. For a rustic look, you can choose to paint the floorboards white. Wood will also work well on walls, for example in the form of panelling.
Natural fabrics such as cotton, linen or wool will help to give the interior a warm and cosy character. Cushions, thick-weave blankets, throws, warm blankets, rugs – all of these will make our task easier and make the interior perfectly suited for hygge in the long winter evenings.
Colourful by nature
Scandinavian interiors have been dominated by white for centuries. The choice was again dictated by practical considerations. White helped to brighten up rooms and made them appear larger. The coolness of white in the Scandi style is balanced by warm colours: beige, ecru and grey tones as well as pastel colours: blue, soft mint and powder pink. The walls can also be covered with light wallpapers with delicate patterns, which will give the rooms a cosy feel.
What about intense colours? If you like vivid colours, you do not have to resign from them. Strong colour accents in the form of geometric and floral patterns will work perfectly on cushions, bedclothes, glass and tablecloths, we can also introduce larger surfaces in a stronger colour (e.g. an armchair, a fragment of a wall), as long as we stick to the rule that the chosen colour should appear in nature.
Popular and timeless
Scandinavian style is still one of the most popular styles in interior design, also in Poland. It captivates with simplicity and universality of solutions, which allow to create a friendly, ecological space to spend time in a cosy, free atmosphere.
Akapit promocyjny (do rozważenia)
Wooden, skeleton constructions, characteristic of Scandinavians, despite their durability, are not very popular in our country, although it must be admitted that every year there are more and more supporters of them. Poles traditionally prefer solid, domestic construction. Where, then, can we feel Scandinavian climate on the Vistula?
Novisa Development has Scandinavian-style housing estates in its offer. Although construction materials and architectural solutions proven on the Polish market were used here, the very concept and colours of the estate houses and the houses themselves directly refer to the Scandinavian climate. Thus, visitors to Zgorzała near Warsaw may be surprised to discover a Scandinavian town in the very centre of Poland.
