Scandinavian style and a crystal chandelier? The result may surprise you

Scandinavian interior design conquered the globe long ago

The Scandinavian style of living is nothing new in interior design. Designers from the northern countries have been influencing the look of interiors across the world since the mid-20th century. This clean style was already very popular for example in the USA during the 1950s. By the way, the 1950s and 60s are regarded as the golden years of Danish design. So northern European design should not be regarded as just a recent fad – far from it.

Simply, cosy, practical

Scandinavian ideas about interiors have developed and changed over the years. Modern Scandinavian style stands out thanks to its simplicity and practicality. Interiors should be airy, clean and cosy. At first glance they might even seem minimalistic. This does not mean, though, that Scandinavian style does not emphasize details. The opposite is true! Only when viewed as a whole does the interior make you feel that everything has been arranged casually and comfortably.

At the same time, shapes come with clean and simple lines. Rooms should have no unnecessary partitions or dark corners. As a result, Scandinavian style appears extremely harmonious and timeless.

One key to Scandinavian style are light colours

Use of colour is crucial for contemporary Scandinavian style. The dominant colours indoors are especially light ones – for example light grey, cream, or white. Why do these colours feature so prominently in Scandinavian design? The explanation is relatively simple – during the year there is often a shortage of light at northern latitudes. The aim is therefore to saturate the interior in light.

The bright colours that predominate in these interiors are combined with dark and black accessories. You can find black in carpets, textiles, or smaller items of furniture. The contrast between black and white/dark and light is an essential feature of Scandinavian design.

Materials connected to nature

Natural materials play a fundamental role in Scandinavian living. An important aspect of interiors is the use of high-quality wood – especially birch or pine. Wood is used for furniture, floors and panelling. These wooden surfaces can be painted or varnished – naturally, in bright colours or in white. Other frequently used materials are glass, metal and marble. Also typical are leather and natural textiles made from wool and flax.

Accessories yes, but within limits

Scandinavian interiors are not fond of excessive quantities of accessories, but neither are they rejected entirely. The few accessories should be carefully picked – quality over quantity. Besides aesthetic value, accessories should have a practical function. Timeless pieces go hand in hand with Scandinavian design, forget about accessories that flit in and out of fashion.

Common accessories that match the northern style include cushions, quilts, throws, fur rugs, candlesticks and vases. Jewelry and cosmetics can be stashed away in practical wooden or metal boxes.

Don't be afraid to combine – try a crystal chandelier

Seemingly incompatible combinations are typical for Scandinavian style. New furniture beside the old, the modern adjacent to the rustic. A block of wood instead of a bedside table? An old wooden table combined with modern, white chairs? Not a problem with Scandinavian design – the neutral foundation of the interior ensures a harmonic impression, even for elements that at first glance might seem too diverse.

Perhaps the combination of Scandinavian style and a crystal chandelier might seem a little farfetched at first. But the result comes as a pleasant surprise. It is another of the unusual combinations that gives Scandinavian style its flair. The quality of lighting is exceptionally important in the northern European style. Choose for your interior one dominant crystal chandelier and complement it with wall and table lamps from the same material. Rather than the highly decorative models, chose something simpler – precisely in the spirit of Scandinavian living.