The Scandinavian design has remained a prominent icon in the interior design universe.

These Nordic styles focus on neutral color schemes, paired with pops of calm colors and natural elements that bring the outdoors in.

Perhaps the most important aspect of the Scandinavian interior design is the concept of Hygge.

The word Hygge isn’t one that translates perfectly into English, but it references the feeling of coziness, simplicity, and warmth in a home.

Imagine a cool, rainy day spent cuddled next to a fireplace with fuzzy socks and a warm blanket. This is the feeling that is meant to be captured in the Nordic style, one of complete sufficiency, contentment, and warmth.

Learn how to infuse your home with five of the most recent trends in this traditional and minimalist style.

1. Pops of Blue

In the past, Scandinavian interior design consisted primarily of white, black, and wood. But, one new color has come to bring life into neutral spaces.

The perfect compliment for the pale, cool colors, blue promotes relaxation and breaks up the monotony of neutrals.

Consider incorporating a blue accent such as a rug, painting, or blanket to bring this deeply natural color into your peaceful space.

2. Gray Walls

This style usually emphasizes the dichotomy of black and white in terms of wall hue. However, gray walls are becoming increasingly popular as an alternative.

Gray is perfect to adhere to the overall theme while adding a level of unique beauty between the two predominant colors.

3. Worn Leather

There are few things in the world that blend as naturally and as beautifully as wood and leather.

These two elements of nature at a rustic charm to the Scandinavian style that would otherwise be overshadowed by the modern design.

The key is to find worn leather furniture that can provide the coziness that is the foundation of this interior design style, without sacrificing true quality.

4. Big Paper Lanterns

These large, white lanterns provide a modern and elegant alternative to regular chandeliers.

The placement of three to four of these in key spaces such as above a kitchen table is an ideal statement piece.

The lanterns come in different styles that can be customized to your preferences and placement.

5. Cacti

Last year, succulents completely dominated the indoor plant world. These resilient plants are not only hardy but also extremely unique.

However, their close cousins in the cacti family have slowly been gaining traction. Perhaps it’s the dangerous, yet innocent nature of cacti or perhaps it’s the pure beauty of these green life forms.

Either way, add small cacti to your space to bring the outdoors in while improving the aesthetic of the room.

Scandinavian Interior Design Principles

The key elements of all of these trends are the Nordic love of pale colors, nature, coziness, functionality, and contentment.

It can be easy to incorporate even a few of these design techniques to promote happiness and well-being in your home.

Simply invest in key elements that will bring make you feel “just right” rather than endless decorations that clutter and complicate your space. Keep it simple is the key piece of advice.

Check out European Leather Gallery’s high-quality leather furnishings to add to your new cozy little Scandinavian haven.