The Ultimate Guide To Scandi-Chic Vintage Decorating

“Lagom” is a Swedish word meaning “just the right amount”. This word sums up Scandi-Chic design. If you are in need of a fresh look for your apartment or house, this is definitely a style to check out. It’s got just the right amount of everything: a minimalist look without being stark and sterile; white-washed simplicity without feeling cold. Here’s your guide to pulling off this balancing act.

Scandinavian Design Elements

Here are the essential elements of this style.

Minimialism

Free your spaces of any unneccessary clutter. The only furniture and decor you have in the room needs to be there for a reason. We’re talking no frills!

White and Neutral Pastel

White, white, white… that’s the name of this game. Eighty percent of each space should be white or neutral pastels like pale pink or tan. Darker colors are used to balance out all of the snow-like appearance. Monochrome blacks or mohogany brown are popular choices for dark accents. For example, white room might be balanced out with a set of mod chairs in solid, matte black.

Functional Design

You don’t have to be a student of interior decorating to understand the idea of “functional design”. Basically, it just means design that serves a purpose. This goes back to minimialism. If it isn’t in the room for a reason, than get rid of it.

Bring On The Sophistication

Scandinavian-Chic design goes beyond traditional Scandinavian design. On top of rustic, simple design elements of a ski cottage in the Alps, we add in touches of sophisticated charm. For example, a traditional Scandi design might feature a room with a bright white couch, white walls, and a dark, rustic coffee table. The chic part comes in when we add in an elegant silver or gold lamp — or other DIY, vintage-inspired piece. Don’t be afraid of a little modern sparkle and shine.

Vintage Love

Second hand items that work well with this design style include:

• Mod furniture
• Simple square or rectangular wooden benches and stools
• Neutral toned throw rugs
• White fabric — use for covering throw pillows or re-upholstering chairs or bar stools
• Mirrors
• Non-techy items such as old fashioned candlestick holders, hardcover books, and reading lamps
• Wooden crates
• Minimalist picture frames

What do you think of this style? Do you love it or hate it? Leave your vote below!