Gimme! Gimme! Gimme! (A Scandi Kitchen!)

25 Nov 2024

Forged in Denmark, the coziness phenomenon known as hygge (pronounced “hoo-ga”) has been popular in Nordic interior design throughout Scandinavia since the 1800s. It wasn’t until the 1950s, when a US Museum promoted Scandi furniture, however, that Scandi kitchens gained global appeal.

Imagine a Swedish kitchen; minimalist cupboards, natural materials, a practical layout and lots of daylight. Together, these symbols of a modern Scandi kitchen are popular because they follow “lista,” a term Sweden’s Smålandian people use to describe thriving on minimal resources.

Why is that loved? Essentially, Scandinavian furniture originally helped an emerging professional class furnish their new homes when many left secluded family farms for cities. The Scandi style provided practical storage so they could cook but also clean surfaces with which to entertain.

Today, millions still covet the look, but many can’t achieve it. Fortunately, at Sigma 3, we’re Scandi kitchen experts, and we’ve compiled this guide to help you master Scandi design. So, keep reading for question answers, mistakes to avoid and tips to achieve your own Nordic-style interior.

A H-Line Ligna Farmhouse Oak range by Sigma 3 Kitchens Esher

The Difference Between Scandinavian and Nordic Décor

Before we begin, Scandinavia covers Norway, Sweden and Denmark. The term “Nordic,” meanwhile, refers to all those, plus Iceland, Greenland and Finland. Yes, there’s a difference but, as Scandi design borrows from the whole range of cultures, we’ll use Nordic and Scandi interchangeably in this article.

Are Scandi Kitchens Cold?

Now that we understand the terms, let’s address the misconception that minimalist, pastel-coloured Scandi kitchens are cold. In reality, they’re warm. Their minimalism is purely practical and, done right, Scandi kitchen décor will promote hygge – a coziness that can even withstand a harsh Nordic winter.

A H-Line Lumina and Ligna range by Sigma 3 Kitchens Cardiff East and a Ligna range by Sigma 3 Kitchens Esher

Look at these Scandi home interior designs, for instance. Their warm tones, natural wood-grain designs and splashes of bold colours perfectly capture the mid-century modern kitchen aesthetic. Warm and welcoming, they make you feel cozy in spite of their modern cabinetry.

"Making a modern kitchen design look warm is all about colour choice. Even subtle changes can make a huge difference, like opting for our Heritage Grey instead of a brilliant white."

Creating a Scandi Kitchen

So, now that you understand the design jargon and the vibe you ultimately want to achieve, let’s explore Scandi interior design with more granularity. The fundamental components of a Scandi-style interior are:

• An excess of natural light
• A pragmatic layout
• Pastel or natural colour palettes
• Minimalist furniture and décor

Do homeowners break these rules and succeed? Yes. Swedish homes often sport colourful patchwork-tile backsplashes, and mid-century kitchens juxtapose simple Nordic furniture with elaborate French architecture. At Sigma 3, however, we recommend understanding the basics before you experiment. But don’t fret if you think these guidelines are vague. We’ll address each component as we go.

Scandi-Style Kitchen Flooring

At Sigma 3, we advise Scandi kitchen owners to keep flooring wooden and exposed. Pale wood works better than dark wood or tiles. Click-lock flooring is common but floorboards or parquet blocks can enrich the room if you have the budget. However, never – NEVER – use wall-to-wall carpet.

Importantly, try to clear that floorspace. Doing so adds to the minimalist vibe that characterises most Scandi kitchens. Hidden kitchen bins are a fantastic way to achieve and maintain this goal.

H-Line Lumina VelaBins by Sigma 3 Kitchens Abergavenny

If you use warm, brown wood, you can pair it with light grey cabinetry without making the room feel cold, or double down with matching wood-finish cabinets. Alternatively, you could also flip the look with wood cabinets and a whitewashed wood floor. Either way, sticking to this colour palette adheres to true Scandi design principles.

Scandi-Look Kitchen Doors

We’d forgive you for thinking that all Nordic kitchens need flat or handleless doors. While those features are commonplace because they match the simple design of a Scandi dining table or armchair, classic, Shaker, modern and handleless kitchens can all create a Nordic design.

An Ashbourne range by Sigma 3 Kitchens Esher and a Sutton range by Sigma 3 Kitchens Cardiff East

In many cases, the finish supersedes the style. As mentioned, aim of natural wood or white-washed cupboards. That should be the case whether you opt for handleless or cottage-style doors. And, while you’re there, minimise upper cabinetry. This is how many Scandis maximise natural light.

"Nordic countries get extremely long and short days, depending on the season. Knowing they won’t get much light during certain months, the people minimise obstructions in their homes to maximise natural light exposure when they can get it. This tradition has bled into worldwide Scandi design."

Nordic-Style Kitchen Handles and Worktops

Clean lines are vital when it comes to Scandi-inspired kitchen fixtures. To find ones that work for you, check out doors with handleless ridges or ranges that complement chunky wooden handles with no fussy details. Likewise, pattern-free worktops made of natural-looking stone work well.

A Wimbourne range by Sigma 3 Kitchens Abergavenny and a Padstow range

Likewise, keeping surfaces clear is necessary to maintain this simplicity. At Sigma 3 kitchens, we offer a whole spectrum of industry-leading kitchen storage solutions. We recommend our Hathaway pantry to aspiring Scandi kitchen owners because of its storage versatility and in-keeping oak interior.

Scandi Home Décor Ideas

Assembling the final touches of a Nordic interior floorplan that looks cozy isn’t easy but choosing the right accessory colours provides a strong foundation. Pastel-coloured walls are a reliable option, especially compared to white, because they help you avoid creating a clinical space.

On the chairs front, moulded plywood ones are a Scandi staple. Similarly, industrial pendant lights and wooden bar stools play a large part in achieving this iconic look.

A Hatfield Moonlight Blue and Scots Grey Breakfast Dresser by Sigma 3 Kitchens Abergavenny

Afraid of ending up with a modern Scandi kitchen that’s bland? Add modern sculptures or decorative light shades. Both are easy ways to inject spots of bolder colours for more personality. Alternatively, you could use one of our Breakfast Dressers and hang quirky, home-made mugs from its hooks.

Finally, remember we said to keep the floor clear? Make an exception for soft furnishings. A well-place rug, throws, cushions and upholstered armchairs – these are the pillars of hygge and will give your room warmth. Interestingly, though, no curtains. Scandinavians prefer blinds or naked windows.

Need Help Creating a Scandinavian Kitchen?

Feeling inspired to get your own Norwegian, Danish or Swedish kitchen but don’t know where to start? If you need more help, find your nearest Sigma 3 showroom and book a meeting, or become a Sigma 3 Insider for free. As Sigma 3 Kitchens Insider, you’ll get free design guides and tips you can’t get anywhere else.

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