Scandinavian kitchens are the ultimate in simplicity and stunningly practical design. One of the best things about a Scandinavian kitchen is that it isn’t just about the aesthetics. Despite looking great, these kitchens are also highly functional. It’s a part of the less is more philosophy that adherents of Scandinavian design believe in; it incorporates pieces that are minimalist, beautiful, and serve a purpose.
Although it may seem daunting to try to design your own version of a Scandinavian- styled kitchen, the truth is that the simplicity of this type of room makes it a great place for beginners to learn to decorate. It’s also important to remember that whatever style you incorporate into your home, you’ll want to make it yours, adding personal touches or switching things up to fit your own tastes lifestyle. Read on for our top tips on how to design your dream Scandinavian kitchen!
FIND WHAT YOU LIKE ABOUT SCANDINAVIAN DESIGN
Take some time to research and find references for kitchens that you like. Try to pinpoint what it is that you like in each specific design. When you research Scandinavian style kitchens, you’ll begin to understand the design elements that go into them, and what it is that you want to incorporate into your own home.
While it may not be possible to incorporate every idea that you like, you will find that most kitchens share some basic elements of design, namely: simplicity, functionality, white space, and style.
BRIGHTEN UP YOUR KITCHEN WITH WHITE
Scandinavian style utilizes white extensively in design, and with good reason. It gives a feeling of lightness, and spaciousness. It’s simple, matches everything, and appears clean. White walls and cabinets can make even the smallest kitchen look bigger.
White is also inviting and reflects light, making it a bright and cozy place to be. This is particularly important if you live in a colder climate, or find yourself indoors a lot. If you have a big window, even better! The white will really bounce that sunlight!
If you can’t afford new cabinetry, a simple coat of white paint can do wonders for stylishly lightening up the kitchen space. White or simple silver or black appliances will add to the look.
CONSIDER YOUR CABINETRY
As mentioned above, a coat of white paint can be enough to really lighten a space. However, if you have the option of buying new cabinets, you can really bring out the Scandinavian style! This type of design is all about clean lines and simplicity.
White or light wood cabinets are excellent choices, but don’t forget about the hardware! Consider either going for very simple cabinet hardware – something sleek – or even getting hands-free cabinets. These cabinets are great for kids and adults alike, as one only has to push on them to pop them open. They look amazing, and have the added bonus of being easier to clean, as they have no. hardware to wash around.
If you do decide to use hardware instead, consider going with a very simple long-line metal piece in silver or bronze and match that up with your appliances and other accents. To accentuate the Scandinavian feel, you will want to avoid large or ornate silverware.
UPDATE YOUR LIGHTING FOR MAXIMUM SUNSHINE
Scandinavian homes are all about large windows and sunshine. It not only creates the illusion of more space; it also brings the outside indoors, and makes for a warmer, more welcoming space. If you are fortunate enough to have large windows, keep the coverings to a minimum. Let as much natural light in as possible by opting for sheers or other lightweight window covering options.
If you don’t have much natural light, you can still up the warmth of the space by adding in your own lights. Track lighting or simple pendant lights are terrific ways to bring light in while adding minimalist stylistic touches.
DON’T BE AFRAID TO ADD COLOR
Yes, white is the backdrop for much Scandinavian design; but that doesn’t mean that other colors are off limits. After all, design is all about making things work for you! Simple does not have to mean white.
Choosing pastel or darker colors to offset the minimalist design can be a very striking choice. For example, consider painting cabinets in a sage green or deep rust. Experiment with lighting, to create a warmer, cozier kitchen. Because the basis of Scandinavian design is minimalistic, a little goes a long way. You can add in a few touches of the same color to create an entirely new look.
Go slowly with changes and see what works for you.
CHOOSE APPLIANCES FOR YOUR LOOK
When designing a kitchen, many people forget one of the most important elements of the room: the appliances! Rather than buying the first appliance that pops into view, thoughtful Scandinavian design incorporates the appliances into the overall decorating scheme. that means choosing sleek appliances that match the overall color palette and feel of the room.
If you’re going for all white, you can stick with white for your appliances, or add a metallic or a touch of color with them. Think of them as another chance to show off your design taste! Many design houses even have matching cabinet and appliance combinations on display.
If you’re not happy with the look of your appliances, there are also options to hide them within the cabinetry to maintain a sleeker look. On the other hand, some people choose to make the appliances the one place where they use bright color or other interesting design choices.
PUT YOUR PERSONALITY INTO IT
Using too many colors or clunky accessories can overwhelm a simply-designed Scandinavian kitchen. But, any kitchen should definitely reflect the designer’s style. So, don’t be afraid to add your own personal touches. Keep them simple, bold, and impactful.
This is a great chance to add a pop of color – for example, a pastel wall hanging or rug – or an interesting piece of art. Simply framed prints or family photos make a great centerpiece for a blank wall. Counterspace should be largely left open to keep the kitchen a functional space, but a simple flower arrangement, vase, or other piece can add a bit of personality.
DON’T SHY AWAY FROM METALLICS
Metallics make great accents, and can lend a modern and functional feel to a room. Metallic tones such as bronze and silver can add to the feeling of light reflection in a room, and are a great accent to a plain white scheme.
Metallic backsplashes are attractive and easy to clean. Again, they also add to the feeling of “light reflection” that makes these kitchens such an inviting place to cook and gather.
KEEP IT SIMPLE
Remember to relax and enjoy the process of designing or decorating. After all, you want your kitchen to be a place for everyone to gather and enjoy each other’s company. Don’t stress too much about adding in new design elements. Remember that you can always go back to add and subtract from your design as you are able.
