The Scandinavian design is a design movement which emphasizes on simplicity, minimalism and functionality that started in the 1950s. The design emerged from the five Nordic countries namely, Finland, Norway, Sweden, Iceland and Denmark. The principle of the Scandinavian design is that it should be appealing and functional. The decorative objects should likewise be affordable to all. Historically, the ideology was the emergence of a particular Scandinavian form of social democracy in the 1950s. At the same time the availability of new low cost materials and methods for mass production have increased. It is common to see form-pressed wood, plastics, anodized or enameled aluminum or pressed steel in a Scandinavian design inspired home interior.
Simplicity vs. minimalism
There have been debates about the differences between simplicity and minimalism. Many think that the two concepts are one and the same. In a way, there are similarities, but technically, simplicity and minimalism have differences in nature. Some literature even use the two concepts interchangeably, which is not suppose to be the case. By definition, simplicity is the state or quality of being simple, while minimalism is any design or style in which the simplest and fewest elements are used to create the maximum effect.
Minimalist suggest that you only live with what you can carry. It is like living with the things that can fit in your backpack. Unfortunately, many individuals are not into this concept of living since minimalism focuses on living with less. Minimalism is not totally about an art style. It is more of a principle that has existed for almost a century. The widely-adopted guiding principle of minimalism is “less is more”, which was first coined by known architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe. The principle is basically stripping off the necessary until only the core parts remain.
Scandinavian design trend that can boost happiness
Recently, hygge was the talk of the town in interior design. Hygge is the Danish concept of coziness that is known to promote warmth and comfort. However, a new Swedish concept is set to give a new outlook in the way homes are decorated as well as health and lifestyle of individuals. This new concept is called lagom, which means “enough, sufficient, adequate”. Lagom shows that moderation and happiness are linked with each other.
Here are some steps that you may want to follow to cleanse your home and with certainty, they will boost your happiness:
1. One of the highlights of Scandinavian design is its clutterless home interior. The design adheres to the concept of “less is more”. Homeowners therefore invest on furniture pieces that will stand the test of time. Usually, furniture pieces are selected based on how the room will be utilized without the unnecessary add on or excess. Challenge yourself by removing an item in each room instead of adding more items.
2. Lagom encourages us to purchase items that will only bring joy. It does not restrict us from buying anything. It is highly recommended to style the room with only one favorite item. This way, you can truly appreciate its beauty, unlike when you place it in a cluttered area. Scandinavian design recognizes the beauty in the small details, such as a decorative candles, fresh flowers or a pile of books.
3. Color has been extensively studied by different areas of discipline. Studies have shown that the color of the rooms can have significant effects to the mood and atmosphere of the home interior. Use calm and soothing wallpaper colors, such as white, gray and earthy tones to create beautiful and balanced rooms.
4. It’s all about nature. Nature has a strong influence in every Scandinavian home. The design suggests layers of natural textures such as linen, wool and wood. These are known to add warmth into the house. Natural light and greenery are likewise abundant in a Scandinavian inspired home.
Happy decorating!