When it comes to minimalism, Scandinavian design wins the prize every time. If you’re a hardcore minimalist, chances are you’ll naturally lean toward this contemporary – yet in many ways very classic – trend. But after discovering a style you like, a big question comes…How do I start? How do I create a Scandinavian mobile home? Today we’re talking about a few tips and tricks to get your design dreams rolling.
1 – Monochrome first
It doesn’t matter what colors you intend to highlight in your home. For the perfect Scandinavian style, you must start with black and white. This sets the tone for the entire design and gives you that fresh, clean palette that is so important. Scandinavian style is about open space, relaxation, and simplicity. Whether you have an open floor plan or not (note: you should think about taking out a few walls if your floor plan isn’t currently open), a predominantly white house with black accents is automatically going to make the place feel bigger.
So yes, paint your walls white. Paint your ceiling white. Your floor may also end up being (you guessed it) white, but we’ll get to that in the next section. If you feel you need a feature wall or even a whole room of color, that’s absolutely fine. You’ll probably end up choosing blue or gray, two popular Scandinavian colors. Make sure it’s a diffused shade. But remember, color is never better than white (at least when it comes to nordic design!) so keep it minimal.
2 – Have fun with flooring
Flooring is what gives the room that distinctive Scandinavian feel. Floors are always light in color. Think beach wood, something sun-bleached and soft. As we mentioned before, you may want to choose a white floor, but there are many other options as well. To get that classic Scandinavian look, choose wide planks. Or you could even select a fun pattern, such as herringbone flooring or stenciled tile.
And while you’re at it, mix it up. One way to create interest is to intentionally install the planks horizontally in one room and vertically in another – crafting a mix and match feel by putting horizontal planks in every doorway. The idea is for things to look natural, and even a little unfinished.
3 – Cozy textures
Even though Scandinavian interiors are unarguably minimalist, that doesn’t mean they have to be cold and sterile. Texture is what gives this style the cozy, it’s-always-winter type of feel that makes you want to curl up next to the fire with a book.
Wood is an accent that you can’t go wrong with. Leather, linen everything, and rattan are very popular, too. Add texture with sheepskin and Icelandic furs (like these incredible rugs). It should all be very natural and organic looking. Practically anything hand-knit or woven (in neutral colors with pops of brighter colors here and there) looks good in a Scandinavian home.
Think about architecture, too, and incorporate exposed beams and other statements if you can.
4 – Clean lines are the best lines
In the uncomplicated, highly simplistic world of Scandinavian design, clean lines are key. Often this will mean straight lines – but not always. Arched doorways and round statement mirrors mix beautifully with all the simplicity, and they add an extra touch of interest.
Gallery walls are popular in Scandinavian design. Stick with simple black and white frames with black and white art most of the time. Then, experiment with creating unexpectedness by introducing a few colorful pieces.
5 – Decor that’s trending right now
Before you dive into your own decorating, let’s run through a list of Scandinavian decor items that are trending right now.
- Naked bulbs and lanterns
- Hanging metal candle holders
- Rattan and linen chandelier shades
- Round vases
- Butterfly chairs
- Plants (go crazy with these!)
- Black metal lamps
- Low, comfortable seating
- Cross-pattern pillows and blankets
- Wood stoves
- Modern dining room chairs
- Massive knit blankets
- Everything leather and mustard yellow
- Poufs
- Throw blankets (and baskets with more throw blankets)
- Sconces
- Hanging chairs.
Cozy Scandinavian home
Some of us are happy that it’s spring again, and some of us are mourning the loss of cozy, winter days indoors. In Iceland it’s still cold, why can’t it be like that here in the US?! Here’s the secret: it doesn’t have to be winter to be cozy! Scandinavian design is meant to be relaxing, homey, and oh-so-cozy whether it’s snowing, raining, or boiling hot.
We hope these tips and tricks have inspired you to live the simple, Scandinavian lifestyle, whatever the weather. And if you’re really into relaxation, check our 7 Things Your Mobile Home Has To Have If You’re An Easy-Going Person.
About EZ Homes Design Team
