SCANDI STYLE IN THREE SIMPLE STEPS...
Freedom to roam might be limited but you can bring the natural world indoors, wherever you live. GABRIELLE FAGAN explores the new rural chic...
THE Scandinavians certainly know how to live, with their uncluttered homes and effortlessly stylish sophisticated spaces. ‘Relaxed rustic’ is their cool new update on traditional country decor – and it’s not hard to fall for the look, which seems tailor-made for the soothing, tranquil settings we all crave in these stressful times.
It takes inspiration from nature, and there’s something truly comforting about reflecting the great outdoors in our homes, when our freedom to roam is so limited.
“We need spaces where we can switch off, feel comfortable and instantly relax, especially at the moment,” agrees Niki Brantmark, author of Relaxed Rustic: Bring Scandinavian Tranquility and Nature Into Your Home, a beautifully illustrated guide to the style.
“Generally, we’re seeking more ‘rustic’ touches because they bring texture, depth and warmth to the home while helping to maintain a wonderfully calm feel,” explains the British-born interiors guru, who lives in Sweden and runs an awardwinning blog, My Scandinavian Home.
Niki believes the ‘relaxed rustic’ look can be created wherever your location. All that’s needed, she says, is a blend of sustainable materials, individually crafted pieces, vintage finds, and an easy-on-the-eye colour palette.
“You too can create a haven where it’s possible to switch off and luxuriate – albeit temporarily – in life’s simpler pleasures,” she promises.
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RUSTIC REVIVAL
HOMESTEAD is one interpretation of new rustic, but banish any thought of this being a bare bones Little House On The Prairie look. Instead, this is an elegant, fresh approach which puts the spotlight on wood – highlighting its natural grain, tones and textures and allowing it to enhance a carefully curated interior, where each item has been chosen with care.
“The colour palette should echo rich autumnal browns – think of horse chestnuts – and offset those with calm neutrals, beige, white and subtle grey,” explains Niki.
“When you look at your home, you need to think about balance. Everything in your home should be useful and cherished. Swedes are good at finding furniture that combines form and function,” she adds. “Their priorities are for practical pieces which also look lovely.”
Niki advises being guided by the ‘less is more’ principle, as having fewer items means each can be given more space, and they can become individual home ‘stars’ in their own right.
Matilda sideboard, £1,150, Beaumonde
Copen folding chair, designed in Scandinavia, £340, Peppersq.com
■ Rustic tip: Give rooms a timeless feel with a mix of well-crafted furniture, from a variety of different eras and made from beautiful materials. You don’t have to buy new; instead source from charity shops, flea markets and auctions as these items will have the patina of age and can be restored or up-cycled.