Minimal, simplistic and functional, Scandinavian design first emerged as a distinct design movement in the mid 20th century, and has since then taken the world of interiors by storm. Clean lines, a neutral colour palette and attention to detail are large contributing factors to a Scandi-inspired aesthetic, whilst also implementing hygge, the Danish and Norwegian word that describes the cozy, contented mood evoked by comfort and conviviality.  

At Coast Creative we are firm believers that the space in which you live directly affects external elements of life, such as social, professional and personal relationships and self-esteem. We think that your home should be a direct reflection of your personality, and designed seamlessly so that life flows smoothly. Our team can offer advice, ideas, and bring your dream designs to life. 

Embrace Minimalism

Scandinavian design has a strong link to nature. Based around sturdy, natural furniture that needs minimal styling to make it beautiful, whilst being incredibly functional and long lasting, the aesthetic is simple yet fashionable. The Scandinavian nations include Sweden, Norway, Finland and Denmark, all of which are renowned for their wild open spaces, connection to water, and beautiful scenery. Keeping it light and bright, houses that are curated with Scandi design in mind ensure there is plenty of space to move around, and keep focus on the ordinary objects in the room, such as functional furniture, light fittings and mirrors, instead of ornamental furniture that is rarely used. 

To make steps towards a Scandinavian-inspired aesthetic, you’ll need to declutter. By removing objects and paraphernalia that you rarely use and are unlikely to miss, you open up the space. Functional furniture, such as the perfect dining room table, sleek kitchen cabinets, minimal matching chairs and subtle storage (for stowing away everyday items), will keep a room feeling spacious and airey.  

We pride ourselves on creating simple and smart storage solutions. Our team can create bespoke cabinetry that fits seamlessly into any space. There’s nothing we love more than blending form and function. With minimalism in mind, Coast Creative have designed and built kitchens, bedrooms, living rooms and utility spaces, whilst working with architects to get the most out of a space from the very beginning. 

You can find examples of minimalist Scandinavian interiors created by the team at Coast Creative in the homes of Noordhoek, The Lookout and Treyarnon View.

Use of Natural Light

Natural light has a positive effect on our mood and energy levels, meaning Scandi design could be one of the reasons Denmark is on the list of happiest countries in the world. Another principle of Nordic design is bringing nature into the home. Large windows allow you to enjoy the natural world, whatever the weather outside. Green spaces outside add colour to a muted indoor palette, and Scandi influenced interiors often includes living elements, such as house plants, which need natural life to thrive. Natural light is also a precious commodity in Scandinavia – the sun doesn’t rise above the horizon in Northern Norway between the middle of November and the end of January! For this reason, Scandi design makes the most of natural light wherever possible. 

Consider how you dress your windows. Light-filtering fabric curtains and light-coloured blinds enable natural light to flow through whilst still keeping a space private. Mirrors can reflect natural light back across a room, and light-coloured walls maximise the brightness of a space. 

An example of a well-lit space worked on by Coast Creative is Noordhoek. This beachside property utilises the light from all angles, welcoming the sunrise at the back of the house where the kitchen is positioned, whilst the sunset streams in through the front of the house where you’ll find the living space and master bedroom. Big windows, reflective surfaces, Crittal screens and open spaces play a big part in allowing light to move freely around the home. 

Neutral Colour Palette

The typical Scandinavian colour palette includes light tones such as white, grey and soft blues. White is the most important colour in a Scandi palette as it is neutral and maximises light. Another reason it is so popular, is that light coloured wood (which is very common in Scandi interior design) and plants pop against it as a base. Grey is a calming colour that goes well with modern design, and colourful, pastel accents are often kept to the cool end of the spectrum. 

White, neutrals and soft pastels create a calming atmosphere and a cohesive look. The clean, uncluttered approach of Scandi design is mirrored in the colour palette, where muted tones keep the mood relaxed and calming. 

Incorporate Natural Materials

The use of natural materials such as wood, stone and leather is commonplace within Scandinavian design. This is partly due to the durability and longevity of the materials, which is an important consideration. Natural materials also compliment a muted, neutral colour scheme.

Wood is often the base material for furniture such as chairs, tables, bed frames and storage, stone can be used for worktops, sinks and table tops, and leather is normally often used in upholstery and subtle finishes such as cabinet handles.

At Coast Creative we work with a variety of materials. Our team are trained in classic furniture making and are skilled joiners and metalworkers. Our no-nonsense approach to interiors and furniture making means our products are long lasting and practical, whilst also being aesthetically beautiful and minimal. Tables, chairs, dining room sets and storage solutions can be created from wood, a mixture of wood and metal, and other eco-conscious materials that have been carefully tested and selected by our team.

Functional and Stylish Furniture

The key characteristics of Scandinavian furniture are simplicity, functionality and beauty. Where less is more, minimalism plays a key role in the aesthetic and practicality, and spaces are left simple and spacious. These principles are in-line with Coast Creative’s ethos. An uncluttered, beautiful and practical home that works for you and your family can influence a happy life. 

Key pieces of furniture subtly transform a space. Well thought out placement and design of sofas, tables and storage units changes the way the eye travels around the room, whilst also communicating who you are to visitors and guests. Making the most of a small kitchen? Opt for a breakfast bar with stools that fit easily underneath. Aiming to reduce clutter and live more minimally? Smart storage solutions throughout your house can create a beautiful home that you can be proud of, that also works practically for you and your family. 

Coast Creative offer a custom interior and furniture design and make service. Our Head Designer Luke starts by building a concept that perfectly meets your needs, tastes and space. Moving forwards, craftsman Nick takes the design that you have created with Luke, then, with the workshop team, plans and executes its construction and installation. All the while yor project will  be in the safe hands of Director of Operations Dave who handles all the logistics and scheduling, as well as overseeing the metalwork fabrication and engineering.

 

If you’re building a home or redesigning an existing room, we encourage you to consider and embrace Scandinavian design principles. Functional, simplistic and beautiful living can improve your quality of life and make a house your home.

Interested in talking to our designers about how Scandinavian design could improve your home? Get in touch with Coast Creative for a consultation on personal interior design solutions. We’d love to hear from you!