5 Steps Towards a Scandi Style Dining Room
Simple, cosy design ideas.
Scandi design is great for creating a casual and cosy atmosphere. Thanks to its minimalism, Scandinavian design is also amazing for small spaces – you can work with what you have and nothing will feel too crowded. Scandinavian dining rooms walk the fine line between being clutter-free yet very welcoming. Want to re-create this look in your home? Check out our five easy tips below.
1. Start With the Basics
The table and chairs in a Scandi dining room are the two most important things to think about. Since these pieces are the focal point of the room and where you'll likely shell out the most money, it's crucial to pick high-quality pieces with a great design aesthetic.
Wood is the number one material used in Scandi design. Light wood tones like aspen, birch and white pine will create a clean and cosy environment. Black wood is a new trend in Scandi design, but it's one that's here to stay. If you need to add a touch of cosiness to your dining chairs, top them with sheepskin rugs.
Tip: If you're limited on space, there's no need to worry. Pull some Scandinavian bar stools up to your kitchen counter to create a mini dining nook.
One of the keys to a curated Scandinavian dining room is to minimise excess. The best way to do this is by thoughtfully choosing your storage furniture. If you love to host wine tastings or serve negronis, use a Scandi-style bar cart to organise your must-haves. Place the prettiest bottles on top and use the shelves underneath for organising glassware.
If your idea of a great night means dinner with friends or baking with your family, you may need a sideboard. A sideboard is ideal for organising extra serveware and dinnerware, particularly those serving platters you might only use from time to time. If your sideboard has a drawer, use it to store cloth napkins, placemats and dining room decor pieces.
Soft lighting is so important in Scandinavian dining room ideas. Scandi countries are known for their chilly winters and months of long nights. Creating a soft, warm glow is key to making your apartment cosy. For a Scandi dining room, we recommend placing a chandelier or pendant light directly over the dining table. Our favourite Scandi pendant lights? Something with a simple shape and a matte black or white shade.
Another way to lighten up your dining room is to let in as much natural light as possible. Keep windows and glass balcony doors free from curtains.
Tip: If you rent your space and can't swap out overhead light fixtures, a Scandi-inspired floor or table lamp can add the same cozy glow to your dining room. Choose a lamp with a light-toned wood base or a simple matte black or white design.
Make your Scandi dining room unique – and give pals something to talk about – by hanging a few prints up to build a gallery wall. A simple black, white and gray palette is great for a calm Scandi room, but we love pastels too. Stick to simple shapes, lines and designs to create a peaceful atmosphere. Use black, white or natural wood frames so that the art stands out.
If your aesthetic leans to the less-is-more side, one large print may work better in the dining room instead of a gallery wall. A large piece of art looks amazing in a room with high ceilings. For a balanced look, hang two pieces that are the same size on either end of the sideboard.
Yes, it's true that Scandi design is all about keeping it minimal, but it's important to treat yourself to some fun extras from time to time. Curate a shelf or the top of your sideboard with thoughtful pieces of Scandi decor. To keep it simple, stick to a small colour palette.
Try adding white marble figurines, a trio of ceramic vases or a couple of artfully placed books. Scandi design favours natural elements, so a branch or dried flowers can work too. The most important thing when decorating is to go with your gut – it will tell you when enough is enough.
Tip: Your journey into Scandi interiors doesn't have to end here! Check out these other guides:
- Ask the Experts: What Is Scandinavian Design?
- 3 Unique Ways to Achieve a Sleek and Modern Scandi Look at Home
- Bring Hygge Into Your Home With These Scandi Lighting Ideas
