10 Simple Ways to Style a Scandinavian Kitchen

With its clean, minimalistic aesthetic and natural materials, the Scandinavian style has become a darling of design magazines and Pinterest boards alike. In this blog post, we will guide you through 10 simple steps to create your own Nordic-inspired kitchen, packed with functionality and timeless beauty.

1. Choose Light and Neutral Colors

Any Scandinavian kitchen begins with the right color scheme. The Nordic countries are famous for their long and dark winters, so they appreciate light and neutral hues to maximize natural light.

What You Might Need: White and soft grey paints.

Steps:

• Paint your walls in white or soft grey.
• Opt for kitchen cabinets in the same tones.
• Choose countertops in light or neutral shades to pull it all together.

Picture This: Picture a space filled with gentle light, reflecting off the white walls and countertops, creating an incredibly inviting and soothing atmosphere in your kitchen.

2. Install Open Shelving

Scandinavians prefer a functional yet minimalist look when it comes to storage. Open shelving is a key feature of this design.

What You Might Need: Wooden shelves, brackets.

Steps:

• Install wooden shelves on your kitchen walls.
• Display your favorite dishes and kitchenware.

Picture This: Imagine beautifully arranged wooden shelves, showcasing your favorite ceramic mugs, Scandinavian cookbooks and fresh herbs in small terracotta pots.

3. Incorporate Natural Materials

The Scandinavian design philosophy is deeply rooted in nature. Incorporating natural materials like wood and stone is essential.

What You Might Need: Wooden kitchen table, chairs; stone countertops.

Steps:

• Purchase a natural wood dining table and chairs.
• Opt for granite or quartz countertops.

Picture This: Picture a sleek, wooden kitchen table, surrounded by matching chairs. A stone countertop, offering a cool, sleek touch to the warm wood tones.

4. Opt for Clean Lines and Minimalist Décor

Scandinavian style is about simplicity and functionality. Make sure your kitchen has clean, simple lines and avoid any unnecessary clutter.

What You Might Need: Minimalist cutting boards, utensils.

Steps:

• Ensure all your furnishings and décor items have a simple, functional design.
• Keep counters clutter-free and only display necessary items.

Picture This: Envision surfaces free of clutter, broken only by the essentials. A minimalist cutting board, a sleek knife set, beautifully balanced in their purpose and simplicity.

5. Light It Right

Efficient lighting is paramount in Scandinavian design. Opt for simple, modern light fixtures and multiple light sources.

What You Might Need: Pendant lights, under cabinet lights.

Steps:

• Install modern pendant lights over your kitchen island or table.
• Add under-cabinet lighting for added functionality.

Picture This: With soft light cascading down from modern pendants, every surface shines, from the gleaming stainless steel appliances to the polished countertops. It’s a dreamy, ambient haven, the lights a stark contrast against the fading twilight outside.

6. Add Cozy Textiles

Scandinavians are experts at “hygge”, the art of everyday comfort and warmth. Add cozy textiles to achieve this in your kitchen.

What You Might Need: Woolen kitchen rugs, linen dish towels.

Steps:

• Place a woolen rug in front of your sink for a soft touch underfoot.
• Opt for linen dish towels for practical and aesthetic appeal.

Picture This: A plush, cozy rug under your feet as you wash the dishes. Linen towels, hanging from the oven handle, adding a delicate touch of color and texture.

7. Warm It Up With Plants

A touch of green can breathe life into your Scandinavian kitchen.

What You Might Need: Pots of herbs, hanging plants.

Steps:

• Place pots of herbs on your kitchen windowsill.
• Hang plants from your ceiling or place them on open shelves.

Picture This: Picture your kitchen bursting with life: fresh herbs swaying gently in the breeze from the open window, hanging plants forming a leafy canopy over your kitchen island.

8. Create a Functional Layout

Scandinavian kitchens are designed for practicality and ease of use. Consider how to best arrange your kitchen for cooking and entertaining.

What You Might Need: Kitchen peninsula, island or breakfast bar.

Steps:

• Install a kitchen peninsula or island for more workspace.
• Ensure that all appliances and storage areas are within easy reach.

Picture This: A seamless flow of workspace, allowing you to glide from chopping, to stirring, to plating, your movements as effortless as a professional chef’s on their stage.

9. Keep It Low-Tech

Scandinavian style shies away from flashy gadgets. Opt for classic and time-tested kitchen appliances.

What You Might Need: French press, stovetop kettle.

Steps:

• Replace your automatic coffee maker with a French press or pour-over.
• Opt for a classic stovetop kettle instead of an electric one.

Picture This: Picture your rustic stovetop kettle whistling away, a signal that your morning coffee is moments away.

10. Opt For High-Quality Craftsmanship

Scandinavians appreciate true craftsmanship. Invest in well-made items that will stand the test of time.

What You Might Need: Handcrafted cutting boards, utensils.

Steps:

• Choose cooking utensils made from high-quality materials.
• Opt for handcrafted items when possible.

Picture This: Envision a kitchen adorned with items handcrafted with care and precision, each one a testament to quality and durability.

In conclusion, crafting your dream Scandinavian kitchen is not just about creating a beautiful space, it’s about embracing a design philosophy that values functionality and simplicity above all. Start planning your Scandinavia-inspired kitchen today! Happy decorating, and don’t forget to pin this post to your favorite Pinterest board!