Scandinavian-style interiors are characterized bylight colors, lots of white, simple shapes, andnatural wood.

They also emphasize functionality over elaborate decoration.

But that doesn’t mean this aesthetic lacks character.

Scandinavian-styled living room

Credit: David Land

These Scandi-style rooms demonstrate how to achieve this cozy, minimalist look.

The Warmth of Wood

Scandinavian interiors typically avoid clutter in favor of streamlined, functional forms.

Lots of white and little ornamentation give this kitchen and dining area a clean, modern sensibility.

dining area with black mirror

Credit:MATT DUTILE; INTERIOR DESIGN; RYAN RABUSKA

A wood island top and table introduce visual warmth and natural texture that keeps this kitchen from looking sterile.

Hints of black are often added for dimension, but otherwise, keep a Scandinavian-inspired space sparsely colored.

This bedroom sitting area uses fresh greenery and layers of pattern and texture to achieve visual interest.

bug artwork scandinavian style

Credit:David Land; INTERIOR DESIGN: ALYS DESIGN

Wrapped in Wood

Natural textures and materials are important in Scandinavian rooms.

Despite its rustic architecture, this bedroom maintains a minimalist edge thanks to neutral bedding and unfussy furniture.

Wood and leather barstools add a modern touch to the timeless design.

minimalist white kitchen dining butcher block

Credit: David Tsay

Soft pastels and earth tones can introduce warmth and personality to an otherwise sparse interior.

Classic Chairs

Scandinavian furniture designs often showcase sleek, sculptural forms.

Two are painted red for an extra jolt of color that ties in with the floral-patterned wallpaper.

neutral, minimalist dormer bedroom with wood plank ceiling, white walls, and exposed beams

Credit: Tria Giovan

Ethereal Bedroom

The clean,cozy aestheticbrings a calming sense to bedrooms.

The floors are left bare so as not to cover up the wood’s texture and warmth.

Simple Small Spaces

Scandinavian design is well suited forsmall spaceswhere excess decoration could easily overwhelm the room.

black island windows hardware kitchen

Credit: Kim Cornelison

Simple wall decor and an assortment of neutral pillows layer in additional personality without contributing visual clutter.

Geometric Patterns

Within a neutral color scheme, patterns bring visual interest.

Striped bedding, a geometric area rug, andshiplap-paneled wallsintroduce character to this minimalist Scandi bedroom.

antlers green dining room

Credit:David Land; INTERIOR DESIGN: ALYS DESIGN

Styled with simple accessories and finished with patterned pillows, this look is so easy to replicate.

This Scandi-inspired dining room juxtaposes light-toned wood furniture with dark espresso flooring for rich contrast.

Large drum pendants contribute a warm, cozy glow.

autumn decor living room minimalist

Credit:Victoria Pearson; INTERIOR DESIGN: MARY JO HOFFMAN

Low-slung, clean-lined chairs offer comfy seating that doesn’t block too much light.

Utilitarian Can Be Beautiful

Apply Scandinavian style to your workspace for an uncluttered look that encourages focus.

Keep decor as pared-back as possible and display mostly utilitarian objects like file holders andstorage baskets.

flower wallpaper wood dining table

Credit: David Tsay

Choose work-surface accessories in simple shapes so as not to disrupt the uncluttered vibe of the room.

arched doorway white bedroom

Credit: Jay Wilde

black white neutral l-shaped banquette oval tulip table Scandinavian style

Credit: Edmund Barr

Scandinavian-styled dining table pendant lights

Credit:Marta Perez; INTERIOR DESIGN: MICHELLE ADAMS

white bedroom with large wooden bed

Credit: Brie Williams

blue accent wall dining

Credit: Jim Franco

neutral Scandinavian style living rom gray curtains leather ottoman

Credit: Edmund Barr

Desk white chair bins

Credit: Laurie Black