How to Blend Scandinavian Design with Other Styles

Scandinavian design has a timeless appeal that lies in its simplicity, functionality, and ability to create serene, inviting spaces. However, what truly excites me is the magic that happens when we blend Scandinavian design with other styles.

In my years of working with clients, I’ve discovered that many homeowners love the clean lines and cozy feel of Scandinavian interiors but worry about their homes looking too stark or impersonal. 

That’s where the art of blending comes in. By incorporating elements from other design styles, we can create spaces that are uniquely personal while maintaining that coveted Scandinavian essence.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the process of seamlessly blending Scandinavian design with other styles, sharing tips and tricks I’ve learned from transforming countless homes. 

Whether you’re drawn to the warmth of bohemian decor or the edginess of industrial design, I’ll show you how to create a harmonious space that reflects your personal style while embracing the best of Scandinavian design principles.

Understanding Scandinavian Design Principles:

Before we dive into blending styles, it’s crucial to understand the core principles of Scandinavian design. These principles form the foundation of the style and will guide us as we incorporate elements from other aesthetics.

1. Minimalism and Functionality: At the heart of Scandinavian design is the concept of “less is more.” Every piece in a Scandinavian-inspired room serves a purpose. When I’m designing a space, I always ask myself, “Is this necessary? Does it add value?” This approach helps create clutter-free, calming environments that promote well-being.
2. Natural Materials and Textures: Scandinavian design celebrates nature. I love incorporating wood, stone, wool, and leather into my designs. These materials not only add warmth and texture but also connect the interior to the natural world outside. In one project, I used a stunning raw-edge oak dining table as the centerpiece, instantly bringing a touch of nature indoors.
3. Light and Neutral Color Palettes: Given the long, dark winters in Scandinavian countries, it’s no surprise that this design style emphasizes light. I typically start with a base of whites, creams, and soft grays, then layer in subtle colors. This approach creates a bright, airy feel that can make even the smallest spaces feel open and inviting.
4. Emphasis on Hygge: Hygge, the Danish concept of coziness and comfort, is essential in Scandinavian design. It’s about creating spaces that feel warm and inviting. I achieve this through soft textiles, ambient lighting, and personal touches that make a house feel like a home.

What is hygge and how can I incorporate it into my home? 

Hygge (pronounced “hoo-ga”) is a Danish word that embodies a feeling of coziness, contentment, and well-being. To incorporate hygge into your home:

1. Add soft, plush textiles like throw blankets and cushions
2. Use warm, ambient lighting with candles or soft-glow lamps
3. Create intimate seating areas for conversation
4. Display personal items that bring you joy
5. Incorporate natural elements like wood and plants

Popular Styles to Blend with Scandinavian Design:

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s explore some popular styles that pair beautifully with Scandinavian design. I’ve had great success blending these styles in many of my projects.

1. Scandinavian-Bohemian (Scandi-Boho): 

This blend is perfect for those who love the simplicity of Scandinavian design but crave a bit more color and personality. I recently worked on a project where we combined a sleek white Scandinavian sofa with colorful Moroccan throw pillows and a vintage Persian rug. The result was a space that felt both modern and eclectic. 

Key elements:

• Start with a Scandinavian base of neutral colors and clean lines
• Add pops of color through textiles and artwork
• Incorporate global-inspired patterns and textures
• Mix in plants and natural materials for a bohemian touch

2. Scandinavian-Industrial: 

This combination works wonderfully for loft spaces or homes with architectural features like exposed brick or pipes. In one memorable project, we paired streamlined Scandinavian furniture with raw metal accents and Edison bulb lighting to create a space that was both cozy and edgy. 

Key elements:

• Use a monochromatic color scheme with blacks, whites, and grays
• Incorporate metal finishes and raw wood
• Choose furniture with clean lines but industrial materials
• Balance soft Scandinavian textiles with harder industrial elements

3. Scandinavian-Mid-Century Modern: 

This is one of my favorite combinations, as both styles share a love for clean lines and functional design. I once transformed a living room by pairing an iconic Eames lounge chair with a minimalist Scandinavian sofa and a sheepskin throw. The result was a sophisticated space that felt both retro and contemporary. 

Key elements:

• Focus on furniture with tapered legs and organic shapes
• Incorporate warm wood tones characteristic of mid-century design
• Use a mix of neutral Scandinavian hues with pops of mid-century colors like mustard or teal
• Add graphic patterns in small doses through art or textiles

Can I blend Scandinavian design with traditional styles? 

Absolutely! Scandinavian design can blend beautifully with traditional styles. Here’s how:

1. Start with a neutral Scandinavian base
2. Incorporate traditional furniture pieces with clean lines
3. Use classic patterns in muted colors for textiles
4. Add warmth with traditional materials like wood and brass
5. Balance minimalism with a few carefully chosen traditional decorative elements

Scandinavian-Tropical Fusion

One of the most exciting trends I’ve been exploring recently is the fusion of Scandinavian and tropical styles. This unexpected combination creates spaces that are both refreshing and cozy, perfect for those who love the simplicity of Scandinavian design but crave a bit of exotic flair.

1. Incorporating tropical elements while maintaining Scandinavian simplicity: The key to this fusion is balance. Start with the clean lines and neutral palette of Scandinavian design, then carefully introduce tropical elements. In a recent project, I used a crisp white Scandinavian-style sofa as the base, then added large-leafed tropical plants and a few rattan accent pieces to bring in that tropical feel.
2. Balancing warm and cool tones: Scandinavian design typically favors cool tones, while tropical style leans towards warmer hues. To blend these, I often use a primarily cool, neutral base (whites, light grays) and then introduce warm accents through wood tones, textiles, and plants. For example, in a bedroom design, I paired cool gray walls with warm bamboo furniture and lush green plants, creating a harmonious balance.
3. Using natural materials from both styles: Both Scandinavian and tropical styles celebrate natural materials, which makes this fusion particularly appealing. I love to mix light woods typical of Scandinavian design (like pine or birch) with more exotic woods or materials associated with tropical style (such as teak or rattan). In one living room, I combined a sleek pine coffee table with rattan armchairs, creating a unique and inviting seating area.

Scandinavian Blending Techniques:

Mastering the art of blending styles is all about finding the right balance. Here are some techniques I use to create harmonious spaces that blend Scandinavian design with other styles:

1. Color palette integration: Start with the typical Scandinavian base of whites, grays, and light wood tones. Then, carefully introduce colors from your chosen complementary style. For a Scandi-Boho blend, I might add terracotta, mustard, or deep blue accents through textiles or art pieces. The key is to use these colors sparingly to maintain the overall Scandinavian feel.
2. Mixing furniture styles: This is where you can really have fun with the blend. I love to mix a streamlined Scandinavian sofa with, say, a mid-century modern armchair or a rustic industrial coffee table. The key is to ensure that despite their different styles, the pieces share some common element – be it color, material, or line.
3. Balancing minimalism with statement pieces: Scandinavian design is known for its minimalism, but that doesn’t mean your space can’t have personality. I often advise clients to choose one or two statement pieces that reflect their complementary style. For instance, in a Scandinavian-Industrial blend, a dramatic oversized industrial light fixture can serve as a focal point in an otherwise minimalist Scandinavian-inspired room.

How do I prevent my space from looking cluttered when blending styles? 

Blending styles without creating clutter is all about balance and editing. Here are some tips:

1. Stick to a cohesive color palette
2. Choose larger, impactful pieces over multiple small items
3. Ensure each item serves a purpose (functional or aesthetic)
4. Use negative space to your advantage
5. Regularly edit your space, removing items that no longer serve or bring joy

Scandinavian Design in Small Spaces

One of the most frequent challenges I encounter in my work is helping clients maximize small living spaces. Fortunately, Scandinavian design principles are perfectly suited to making the most of compact areas. Let’s explore how to blend Scandinavian style in small spaces while maintaining functionality and style.

1. Maximizing functionality in compact areas: 

The Scandinavian emphasis on functionality is a godsend in small spaces. Every piece should serve a purpose, and ideally, more than one. In a recent studio apartment project, I incorporated a wall-mounted desk that folded down to become a dining table. This dual-purpose piece saved valuable floor space while maintaining both work and dining areas.

2. Space-saving furniture options: 

Look for furniture that embodies Scandinavian simplicity while offering space-saving features. Some of my go-to pieces include:

• Nesting tables that can be tucked away when not in use
• Platform beds with built-in storage drawers
• Wall-mounted shelving units that provide storage without taking up floor space
• Expandable dining tables that can accommodate guests but shrink for everyday use

3. Creating the illusion of more space with Scandinavian principles: 

Scandinavian design’s love of light colors and minimal clutter naturally helps spaces feel larger. Here are some techniques I use:

• Paint walls and ceilings in light, reflective colors to bounce light around the room
• Use transparent furniture (like ghost chairs) to reduce visual clutter
• Hang curtains close to the ceiling to create the illusion of height
• Incorporate mirrors to visually expand the space

In one tiny urban apartment, I used these principles to transform a cramped 400-square-foot space into a bright, airy home that felt twice its size. The key was ruthless editing, clever storage solutions, and a commitment to the “less is more” Scandinavian ethos.

Incorporating Scandinavian Elements Room by Room:

Now, let’s take a tour through a typical home and explore how to incorporate Scandinavian design elements in each room while blending with other styles.

1. Living Room: The living room is often the heart of the home, and it’s where the Scandinavian principle of “hygge” really comes into play. Start with a neutral base – perhaps a light gray or white sofa. Add warmth with textured throws and cushions. A wooden coffee table brings in that natural element, while a statement floor lamp can add a touch of your complementary style. Don’t forget plants – they’re essential for bringing life to a Scandinavian-inspired space.
2. Bedroom: In the bedroom, focus on creating a serene, restful environment. A platform bed with clean lines embodies Scandinavian simplicity. Dress it with crisp white linens and add coziness with a chunky knit throw. Incorporate natural materials through wooden side tables or a rattan chair in the corner. If you’re blending with a more colorful style, like Bohemian, this is where you can add a pop of color through artwork or a statement rug.
3. Kitchen: Scandinavian kitchens are all about functionality and simplicity. Opt for sleek, handleless cabinets in white or light wood. Open shelving is very Scandinavian and provides an opportunity to display carefully curated items. If you’re blending with industrial style, consider concrete countertops or metal bar stools. Don’t forget to incorporate plenty of natural light – it’s crucial in Scandinavian design.
4. Home Office: With more people working from home, a well-designed home office is essential. A minimalist desk in light wood paired with a classic Scandinavian-design chair (like the iconic Ant chair) creates a perfect base. Add warmth and personality through artwork and plants. If you’re blending with mid-century modern, this is a great place to incorporate a statement floor lamp or a vintage sideboard for storage.

How can I make my Scandinavian-inspired space feel warmer and more inviting? 

While Scandinavian design can sometimes feel cold, there are many ways to warm it up:

1. Incorporate lots of textiles – throw blankets, cushions, and rugs
2. Use warm lighting, including candles and table lamps
3. Add natural elements like wood and plants
4. Include personal items and artwork that bring you joy
5. Don’t shy away from color – use it in small doses to add warmth

Scandinavian-Inspired Outdoor Spaces

While we often think of Scandinavian design in terms of interiors, its principles can be beautifully applied to outdoor spaces as well. As an interior designer, I’ve found that creating cohesion between indoor and outdoor spaces can significantly enhance the overall feel of a home. Let’s explore how to bring Scandinavian design to your patio, balcony, or garden.

Bringing Scandinavian design principles to patios and balconies

The key is to create an outdoor living area that feels like an extension of your interior. Start with a neutral base – perhaps a concrete floor or light wooden decking. Then, add comfortable seating with clean lines. I love using a mix of built-in benches (great for small spaces) and movable furniture for flexibility.

Weather-resistant materials that maintain the Scandinavian aesthetic

Fortunately, many materials that work well outdoors also align with the Scandinavian style. Some of my favorites include:

• Teak furniture: It weathers beautifully and has a natural, Scandinavian feel
• Concrete: Perfect for planters or even custom furniture pieces
• Galvanized steel: Adds an industrial touch while being highly durable
• Weather-resistant fabrics in neutral tones: Think grays, whites, and beiges

Creating cozy outdoor retreats

The Scandinavian concept of ‘hygge’ is just as important outdoors. Here are some ways to create a cozy outdoor space:

• Add soft lighting with string lights or lanterns
• Include plenty of comfortable cushions and throws (just be sure to choose weather-resistant options)
• Incorporate a fire pit or outdoor heater for cooler evenings
• Use plants to create privacy and a connection to nature

In one project, I transformed a small urban balcony into a Scandinavian-inspired oasis. We used a light wood decking, added a built-in bench with storage underneath, and included a small bistro set in powder-coated steel. Potted plants and herbs added greenery, while string lights created a magical atmosphere in the evenings. The result was a space that felt like a natural extension of the Scandinavian-styled interior, providing a perfect spot for morning coffee or evening relaxation.

Accessorizing Your Blended Scandinavian Space

Accessories are where you can really have fun with your blended Scandinavian style. They allow you to add personality and warmth to your space while maintaining the overall Scandinavian aesthetic. Here’s how I approach accessorizing in a blended Scandinavian space:

Textiles and soft furnishings

Textiles are crucial in Scandinavian design for adding warmth and texture. Choose natural materials like wool, linen, and cotton. In a recent project where we blended Scandinavian and Bohemian styles, I used a mix of sheepskin throws, linen cushions, and a vintage Moroccan rug to create layers of texture and interest.

Lighting fixtures

 Lighting is incredibly important in Scandinavian design, given the long, dark winters in Nordic countries. I love to mix different types of lighting:

• Pendant lights with simple, geometric shapes
• Table lamps with bases in natural materials like wood or ceramic
• Floor lamps that double as sculptural pieces If you’re blending with industrial style, this is a great place to incorporate some metal finishes.

Art and decor

Art is personal, but in a Scandinavian-inspired space, I typically advise clients to choose pieces with simple color palettes and clean lines. Black and white photography works well, as do abstract pieces. Don’t be afraid to leave some walls bare the negative space is an important part of Scandinavian design.

For decor, less is more. Choose a few meaningful pieces rather than cluttering surfaces. Some ideas include:

• A collection of ceramic vases of varying heights
• A stack of design books on a coffee table
• A single, large plant like a fiddle leaf fig or monstera

Remember, each accessory should earn its place in your space, either by serving a function or bringing you joy.

Sustainable Scandinavian Blends

Sustainability is a core value in Scandinavian culture, and it’s becoming increasingly important in interior design. As a designer, I’ve seen a growing demand for eco-friendly options that don’t compromise on style. Let’s explore how to create sustainable Scandinavian blends.

Eco-friendly materials in Scandinavian design

Scandinavian design naturally lends itself to sustainability with its focus on natural materials. Some eco-friendly options I often use include:

• FSC-certified wood for furniture and flooring
• Organic cotton and linen for textiles
• Non-toxic, low-VOC paints for walls
• Natural stone like marble or slate for countertops and accessories

In one recent project, we created a stunning kitchen using reclaimed wood for open shelving, paired with energy-efficient appliances and LED lighting. The result was a space that was both beautiful and environmentally responsible.

How can I make my Scandinavian-inspired home more eco-friendly? 

Here are some tips to increase the sustainability of your Scandinavian-inspired home:

1. Choose furniture made from sustainable or reclaimed materials
2. Opt for energy-efficient lighting and appliances
3. Use natural, non-toxic cleaning products
4. Incorporate plenty of plants for natural air purification
5. Upcycle or repurpose items whenever possible
6. Choose quality over quantity to reduce overall consumption

Upcycling and repurposing in blended styles

Blending styles offer great opportunities for upcycling and repurposing. Here are some ideas:

• Transform vintage industrial pieces into Scandinavian-inspired furniture (e.g., turning an old ladder into a minimalist bookshelf)
• Repaint second-hand furniture in typical Scandinavian colors like white or pale gray
• Use reclaimed wood to create accent walls or custom furniture pieces

Balancing sustainability with aesthetics

The key is to choose sustainable options that align with Scandinavian design principles. For example:

• Opt for quality, timeless pieces that will last for years rather than following fast-fashion trends
• Choose multi-functional furniture to reduce overall consumption
• Incorporate plants not just for aesthetics, but also for their air-purifying qualities

Common Mistakes to Avoid While Blending Scandinavian design

As an interior designer, I’ve seen clients make some common mistakes when trying to blend Scandinavian design with other styles. Here’s what to watch out for:

1. Overcrowding spaces: One of the biggest mistakes is forgetting the Scandinavian principle of “less is more.” It’s easy to get carried away when blending styles and end up with a cluttered space. Remember, every item should have a purpose. In one project, we had to edit down a client’s extensive art collection to allow each piece to breathe and make an impact.
2. Losing the Scandinavian essence in the blend: While blending styles, it’s crucial not to lose sight of core Scandinavian principles. Maintain a focus on functionality, clean lines, and a connection to nature. I always advise clients to start with a Scandinavian base and then carefully layer in elements from other styles.
3. Neglecting functionality for aesthetics: Scandinavian design is beautiful, but it’s also highly functional. Don’t choose form over function. Each piece should serve a purpose. In a recent project, we replaced a beautiful but impractical coffee table with a more functional design that included hidden storage.
4. Overcomplicating the color palette: While blending allows for more color, it’s easy to go overboard. Stick to a primarily neutral base with carefully chosen color accents. I often use the 60-30-10 rule: 60% dominant color (usually neutral), 30% secondary color, and 10% accent color.
5. Ignoring the importance of lighting: Lighting is crucial in Scandinavian design. Don’t rely solely on overhead lighting. Layer your lighting with a mix of ambient, task, and accent lights to create a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Conclusion

Blending Scandinavian design with other styles is an art that allows you to create a space that is uniquely yours while maintaining the simplicity, functionality, and warmth that makes Scandinavian interiors so appealing. Remember, the key is balance – start with a Scandinavian foundation and carefully incorporate elements from your chosen complementary style.

As you embark on your design journey, don’t be afraid to experiment. Your home should reflect your personality and lifestyle. Use these guidelines as a starting point, but trust your instincts and have fun with the process. After all, the most beautiful spaces are those that tell a story about the people who live in them.

Whether you’re drawn to the bohemian flair, industrial edge, or mid-century modern charm, there’s a way to blend it seamlessly with Scandinavian design. The result will be a space that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional, comfortable, and uniquely yours.

Remember, great design is about creating spaces that enhance our daily lives. So as you blend Scandinavian design with your chosen style, always keep in mind how you live and what brings you joy. That’s the true essence of hygge, and it’s what will make your blended Scandinavian space feel like home.