ELEMENTS OF SCANDINAVIAN DESIGN

Scandinavian design is known for being functional, simple and minimalist. The movement had its origins in the five Nordic countries of Finland, Iceland, Norway, Sweden and Denmark in the early 20th century, and achieved popularity in North America by the Sixties. Its clean lines and contemporary look has never really gone out of style since then.

“The design is esthetically appealing and long-lasting, and that’s why people are looking at Scandinavian design so much: it’s very inspiring and beautiful,” said Anne-Mathilde Bilodeau, cofounder of Opposite Wall, a company that specializes in wall prints and posters.

“The style is clean and modern, with simple silhouettes and natural elements, allowing people to easily integrate it into their homes alongside other contemporary design trends,” said Maureen Welton, vice-president of creative and design at Article.

The incredible thing about Nordic design is that it can be the main event, or the soft, subtle backdrop.

“We recently introduced more Scandinavian styles into Article’s product catalogue because of their versatility and ability to complement a wide array of other designs,” Welton said. She pointed out how well mid-century modern and Scandinavian designs work together in contemporary homes.

Nordic decor can even be influenced by Asian decor ideals.

Thien Ta Trung is the co-founder of Élément de base, a local company specializing in furniture and accessories. He said that they are trying to create their own style: Scandinavian simplicity with an edge. Not only are their values close to the Scandinavian design ethics, but they love to mix in Japanese design esthetics as well.

“(Our designs) are based on simplicity and practicality, and we prefer to use natural materials such as solid wood, wool and leather,” he explained. “These basic principles are the reason it has been so successful and influential because, in a crowded modern world, it’s great to have peaceful and calming furniture around us — a little bit of Zen in our lives.

“When you open the door of your home after a long day, it’s nice to see a space that is soothing and serene. And that is what Scandinavian design can bring to our daily lives.”

The Nordic look is not just about esthetics, it’s also a reflection of the lifestyle in those countries.

“We all know that Scandinavian design is about white walls, pale wood floors and natural light,” said Catherine Lazure-Guinard, founder of the blog and studio Nordic Design. “It takes inspiration from nature and brings the outside in, with muted colour palettes that still feel warm and cosy and inviting,

“Scandinavians surround themselves with objects they really like, so they buy less but they buy better. It’s very curated. And, beyond design, it’s a way of life. It’s just not about buying a lot of stuff.”

Bilodeau learned first-hand about this life philosophy while living in Scandinavia a few years ago.

“I witnessed how people related to their homes,” she said. “It really was an extension of who they were as individuals and families, what they believed in and what they aspired to be, and they often expressed this with home design.

“Space is scarce, and the cost of living is expensive, so I think that’s why Scandinavian design focuses a lot on esthetics, minimalism, quality, and functionality — so you never get tired of it and it can last a long time.”

Bringing a Nordic feel into our own homes is as simple as learning to pare things down.

The expression “less is more” resonated with our experts. “Avoid clutter, and focus on incorporating simple pieces in neutral colours and textures,” Welton suggested. “Try looking for articles with clean lines and wood tones to brighten up your home. And keep the styling minimal.”

Bilodeau agreed. “Opt for minimalism over extravaganza, and keep only what brings you joy and comfort,” she said.

“Bring in as much light as possible so that you can create a fine balance between shades and textures.

“If in doubt, choose neutral colours or the white and black scale, as it never goes out of style.

“And finally, choose quality materials whenever you can.”

PHOTOS (2): COURTESY OF ARTICLE The Culla Spindle Oak bed features the clean, modern lines of Scandinavian furniture. Its light colour and breezy elegance is perfectly suited to a contemporary, airy bedroom like this.

(2): COURTESY OF OPPOSITE WALL PHOTOS A Nordic style chair with clean lines and a wood frame has webbing that echoes the lines in the throw draped across the seat, and complements the arrangement of black-and-white framed wall decor on a white wall.

A simple tableau of blonde wood furniture, flanked by a large floor plant and backed by an arrangement of framed wall art reflects the Scandinavian design approach of clean lines, uncluttered sight lines, and a balanced whole.

A white oak table reflects the clean, modern lines of Scandinavian design.