Scandinavian design – inspiration

Scandinavian design, with its emphasis on simplicity, functionality, and light, has become an iconic interior style and a constant source of inspiration for home decorators worldwide. Discover the characteristics of this design style and learn how you can create your own Scandinavian haven using Superfront's design solutions for Ikea's most common frames!

KITCHEN: Fronts PLAIN & GEOMETRIC Almost White /
Handles MINI TWINE & TWINE Brass

KITCHEN: Fronts PLAIN & VERTICAL Honey Wood / Handles WIRE Super White

KITCHEN: Fronts VERTICAL Alabaster Wood

What characterises Scandinavian design?

Scandinavian design, also known as Nordic design, is renowned for its simplicity, functionality, and minimalist aesthetic with clean lines and sparse decoration. Materials such as wood, linen, and leather are extensively used to create a warm and sustainable atmosphere. Light plays a central role with large windows that open up the rooms and create an airy feeling. Neutral colours like white, grey, beige, and black predominate, allowing for personalisation and reflecting Scandinavian values of simplicity, sustainability, and quality of life.

Scandinavian design through history

The Scandinavian design phenomenon took shape in the early 20th century, influenced by Bauhaus and the Arts and Crafts movement, as well as Nordic craft traditions. The style gained global attention at the 1930 Stockholm Exhibition for its timeless and minimalist aesthetic, use of natural materials such as wood and linen, and emphasis on functionality and light. While the design has naturally evolved over the years, these core values continue to make Scandinavian design highly esteemed and appreciated internationally.

TAKUMI TRIPLE SHELF 80cm Alabaster Wood /
Drawer fronts PLAIN & ILLUSION Ashton Grey / Handles MINI CIRCUS Aluminium

KITCHEN: Fronts PLAIN & VERTICAL Almost White / Handles BAR Almost White

1920s-30s: Scandinavian design is influenced by Bauhaus and the Arts and Crafts movement, with a focus on simplicity and functionality.

1930s: Scandinavian design gains international attention at the 1930 Stockholm Exhibition for its minimalist aesthetic and use of natural materials.

1950s-60s: Modern Scandinavian design flourishes with designers like Arne Jacobsen, Alvar Aalto, and Hans Wegner, known for their iconic furniture.

1990s: Scandinavian design is rediscovered internationally for its simplicity and elegance, with companies like Ikea spreading the style globally.

Present day: Scandinavian design continues to be influential, focusing on sustainability, innovative materials, and smart design solutions.

Decorate with Scandinavian design

Here are some tips on what to consider if you want to create your own Scandinavian oasis at home:

– Clean and uncluttered surfaces: Scandinavian design means keeping surfaces clean and minimalist. Avoid excessive decoration and instead choose simplicity in furniture and decor.

– Natural materials: The use of natural materials like wood, linen, and leather is central. These materials create a warm and inviting feeling while emphasising sustainability.

– Light colours and light: A base of light colours such as white, grey, and beige helps create an open and airy atmosphere. Maximise natural light through large windows and avoid heavy curtains to let in as much light as possible.

– Functional furniture: Furniture should be both beautiful and functional. Choose pieces with clean lines and use them to create clear zones in the room, without overcrowding.

– Personal details: Despite the minimalist style, it's important to include personal details that reflect your own style and personality. This could be artwork, textiles, or small decorative items that give the room character.

STORAGE: Fronts VERTICAL Alabaster Wood / Handles MINI REFLECTION Aluminium / Legs PLINTH 120 Alabaster Wood

Scandinavian design from Superfront

At Superfront, you can find timeless Scandinavian design for every room in your home. With our doors, handles, and legs for Ikea's most common frames, you can not only create entirely new furniture but also give your existing Ikea furniture a completely new look in an environmentally friendly way.

Create your own Scandinavian design kitchen around Ikea's Metod frames, with beautifully veined wooden kitchen doors and details in natural materials like wooden handles or leather handles. We also offer kitchen doors for Faktum, enabling those with Ikea's older Faktum frames to make an environmentally conscious choice and extend the lifespan of their kitchen instead of building anew.

In addition to kitchen doors, we have a wide range of doors for Bestå and wardrobe doors for Pax in many timeless colours and wood veneers, giving you the opportunity to give your sideboard or wardrobe a modern Scandinavian update. All our doors are manufactured in Sweden with sustainability and quality in mind.

Explore our selection of sleek handles and knobs, furniture legs, and wall shelves, which can be the perfect finishing touch to your Scandinavian interior!