How To

Delightfully Danish

Written by Shereen Lurie

The recent resurgence of interest in Danish design is testament to our admiration for the ideals, simplicity and way of life enjoyed by the Danes.

At the heart of Danish culture is the philosophy of hygge – the ritual of enjoying life’s simple pleasures. This covetable way of life is conveyed in their neutral, monochromatic interiors, abundant use of texture – think woven rattan chairs, raw wood coffee tables and faux sheepskin throws – and love for ultra-modern mid-century design. Whether you’re going full-tilt or are looking for just a few iconic Danish design elements to incorporate into your home, here are 10 design ideas to delight and inspire:

Keep it calm – In this lounge, wooden slatted walls allow a multitude of colour-block scatter cushions to take centre stage. The overall muted tone of the room is very mid-century, creating a serene space in which to relax and unwind.

Image: Ferm-living.com

Image: Ferm-living.com

Monochrome rules – Black-and-white interiors are a favourite colour combination in Danish homes. The look is timeless, elegant, and always make an impression.

Image: Homedit.com

Image: Homedit.com

Unpretentious style – Danish design is always comfortable, cosy and lived-in.

Image: Visitcopenhagen.com

Image: Visitcopenhagen.com

Art rules – Bold, quirky art is a dominant feature. It makes an impact when teamed with crisp white walls and interesting textiles.

Image: Thinkpositiveprints.com

Home fires – A fireplace adds ambience and warmth to otherwise utilitarian spaces, creating the much-loved feeling of hygge.

Image: Plastolux.com

Image: Plastolux.com

Storytelling – One of the defining – and most appealing – characteristics of Scandi spaces is collected furniture, which celebrates the stories of their residents. Homes are charismatic, sustainable, and feature handpicked vintage furniture.

Image: Theapartment.dk

Image: Theapartment.dk

Soft tones – A cool grey cabinet, wishbone chairs and pendant lights work together to create a soft, subdued room. The rustic wooden dining table adds character and coziness, and helps to reinforce the overall low-key atmosphere.

Image: Boligmagasinet.dk

Image: Boligmagasinet.dk

Add foliage – Freshen up your space with a selection of indoor plants. Not only do they look great, but they also help to purify the air and relieve stress. Popular choices include fiddle leaf fig, delicious monster and cacti. Glass terrariums also look great on open shelves and coffee tables.

Image: Architectureartdesigns.com

Image: Architectureartdesigns.com

Beautiful baskets – No Scandi interior is complete without a collection of woven storage baskets. Baskets are an inexpensive way to funk up any room in your home, and can provide a multitude of storage solutions.

Image: Myscandinavianhome.com

Image: Myscandinavianhome.com

Light it up – One of the easiest ways to add ambience to your home is with eye-catching pendant lights. Made from plasterized fabric, the George Nelson bubble lamp works as both functional and modern art.

Image: Decoist.com

Image: Decoist.com

THE AUTHOR

Shereen Lurie

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