Scandinavian Design

Why We Love Scandinavian Designs

In the 1950s, a design style emphasizing craftsmanship, simplicity and functionality emerged in Denmark, Norway, Sweden and Finland. This style became known collectively as Scandinavian design. As much an ideological movement as a look, Scandinavian design espoused creating beautiful and useful pieces that are approachable and accessible to everyone. At Lumens, designs from all Scandinavian countries are represented, as is a wide range of Scandinavian-based brands from Denmark, Sweden and Finland. The collection is vast and spans decades of designs to deliver an offering that amplifies the layout of any space.

Where Scandinavian Designs Work Best

Knowing how important and enriching good design can be, we love the idea of modern design created for all. And we simply love the overall look. When gathered together as a group, a proliferation of white finishes, pale woods and formal yet delicate forms give Scandinavian interior design an overall light and cheerful quality. This distinctively blithe personality means that Scandinavian furniture and accessories are refreshingly natural and without pretentiousness, and are equally comfortable in contemporary and classic settings. Whether used in the the living room, the office or on display in the dining room, you'll find that the introduction of Nordic design to your home is happily welcomed.

It truly is modern design that anyone and any space can enjoy.

Scandinavian Designs We Love

Accomplishing a Scandinavian aesthetic requires a designer be located in one of these Nordic countries and have thorough understanding of the tenets of this highly-desirable design style. From lighting to unique accessories that bring personality to a room, you are guaranteed to find the best of the best in this selection. Louis Poulsen is a design-lovers favorite for pendants, chandeliers and table lamps meeting this look. Infamous and iconic pieces from designer Poul Henningsen's collection are recreated by Louis Poulsen and have worked their way into homes all over the globe. Vitra is another noteworthy name offering Danish furniture recreations from Verner Panton's popular collection. Look to Fritz Hansen for iconic pieces originally created by the renown Arne Jacobsen. And for a decidedly Finnish look, be sure to check out the accessories from iittala. The right mix of lighting and furniture will make your home look as if it is straight out of Scandinavia.

How to Choose the Best Scandinavian Lighting & Furniture

As with any lighting or furniture choices, picking the right designs is a carefully considered decision. Already knowing that you prefer a Scandinavian aesthetic in your home is a jump start on finding the best decor for your rooms. Next, thoroughly measure the space where you plan to install lighting to get the dimensions just right. Remember to take note of height, length (from the base of the ceiling) and diameter (for most pendants and chandeliers). If you're decorating with portable lamps, be sure to have a power outlet nearby. For furniture, decide which pieces you want to introduce to your decorating mix. While side chairs and arm chairs might be easy to work with, selecting a larger furniture piece like a sectional sofa or large dining table requires a better understanding of exactly what you need. Finally, find colors, finishes and patterns that will blend in with your existing palette. Or choose designs that will really stand out and give the room a noticeable Scandinavian personality. If you have any questions about the Scandinavian lighting, furniture and accessories featured here, please call our home decor experts at 877.445.4486.

Other Considerations

To browse more trending looks and collections of hand-selected designs we are currently loving, head over to our Looks We Love page. You may also appreciate the distinct look in the assortment of mid-century modern designs. Retro furniture, lighting and home furnishings inspired by trends of the 1950s have a similar appeal as the Scandinavian fixtures featured here and will be an easy implementation to your home's decor. With style of lighting and furniture you choose, be sure to properly outfit it with a selection of well-designed home furnishings too.