How to Design a Scandi Style Home That Doesn’t Look Like an Ikea Showroom

How to Design a Scandi Style Home That Doesn’t Look Like an Ikea Showroom

Charmaine Kon by Charmaine Kon on Mar 20, 2017
Why you should care

Scandinavian interior design ideas can be found all over the internet. We looked to the irrefutable design expert, Instagram, on Scandinavian home designs and décor that embrace the style with personality.

So you love Ikea and Scandinavian designs, but don’t know how to embrace the style without copying and pasting an Ikea showroom?

We collected ideas from Scandinavian homes on Instagram:

Add Texture

Minimalistic design and clean lines are a signature feature of Scandinavian style homes. To offset and complement such minimalism, add texture to the home.

Do it with architectural additions like a wainscot wall:

…or with decorative pieces like furry pillows, fluffy rugs, knitted throws, and other fabric décor.

A post shared by Showhomegirls (@showhomegirls) on

Contrasting Style Piece

Diverge from a 100% Scandinavian look by adding a star, contrasting-style piece to the room. Shop for a piece that really reflects your personality so that the room goes from showroom to special.

#Scandistyle room with a rustic side table.

A post shared by K A T I E (@halfway_wholeistic) on

Vintage designs add instant charm.

…and so does a modern chandelier.

A post shared by @scandimylove on

How about a really fun, standout piece?

Anchor the Room

With “minimalistic and clean” as its main descriptors, Scandinavian designs often feel light and airy. Counter this with an interior design trick – anchoring – add some solidity (and character) to the room.

Do this with a deep wall colour.

A post shared by Dagmara Fajks (@roomor_) on

…or a feature brick wall.

A post shared by Cozy Home?? (@nordic_design_) on

Oversized art works too.

Ornate Patterns

Ornate patterns also contrast minimalism well. In every Scandi-style room, dedicate one or two ornate furniture, décor, or architectural elements.

Your answer to most problems – the right pillows.

A post shared by julia (@lilliv.de) on

Lighting and art are a quick way to make an impact in an otherwise basic room.

A post shared by @dicasdaatena on

You can find sheets and lamps with such floral inclinations at Ikea. Blow up the idea and place it on a wall.

A post shared by Kristin lagerqvist (@krickelin) on

That wall, that rug, that table cloth, and those pendant lamps take this dining room from meh to magic.

Soften With Colour

Ikea designs use plenty of white, black, wood stains, and bright primary colours. Balance those with soft colours – it adds a sense of cosiness too.

Keep your basic pieces neutral and save the colour for changeable décor pieces like art, sheets, and flowers.

Or soften the modernity of your Scandi home with a soft, grey wall.

Why you should care

Scandinavian interior design ideas can be found all over the internet. We looked to the irrefutable design expert, Instagram, on Scandinavian home designs and décor that embrace the style with personality.

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