Originating from Sweden, Norway, and Denmark, Scandinavian design is defined by its clean lines, minimalist aesthetic, and practical elegance. Hallmarks of Scandinavian interior design include light colour palettes, earthy tones, simplicity, and functionality. A deep appreciation for nature is rooted in Nordic culture, which is reflected in the use of natural light, vintage or recycled materials, modern furniture, and clutter-free spaces.
Key Design Elements
- Light Colours & Matte Finishes – Opt for bleached or light-toned floors with a matte finish. Lighter flooring not only brightens up a room but also creates a versatile canvas for subtle pops of colour.
- High Variation Designs – To achieve a more organic and natural appearance, choose materials that replicate the look of wood grain, tonal variations, and the aging process.
- Wideboard Planks – These visually expand a room, making them ideal for larger spaces. Their smooth, understated appearance is both timeless and on-trend.
Engineered Timber Flooring
It’s hard to go past the natural beauty and prestige of hardwood timber flooring. Engineered timber, especially European Oak, is an ideal match for Scandinavian-inspired interiors. To truly embrace the Scandi aesthetic, consider flooring in neutral or grey tones, core elements of the clean and minimalist colour palette that defines this design style.
Whitewashed oak is an excellent option, offering that raw, understated elegance that’s so central to Nordic decor. Its subtle finish adds an effortlessly stylish look while providing a neutral base that enhances natural light and creates a more spacious feel, key goals of Scandinavian interiors. For a perfect Scandinavian touch, Embelton Flooring’s Beach Oak European Oak or Corsican Grey European Oak would be a standout choice.
Benefits of Timber Flooring
- Unique Beauty – as a natural product no two boards will ever be the same – offering natural character and beauty which is unmatched.
- Increases property value – Choosing timber flooring for your home can pay off big time down the track with one study indicating that homes with hardwood flooring can sell for up to 6% more than homes without.
- Versatile – With many different colours and styles to choose from including herringbone, wideboard and chevron patterns, there’s a style to suit any homeowner’s vision.
Hybrid Flooring
For those seeking unmatched durability alongside stunning timber look decors, look no further than hybrid flooring. Available in a broad range of colours, including many lighter neutral toned floors, perfect for that Scandinavian aesthetic. Embelton Flooring’s Whitehaven Hybrid Flooring would be the perfect choice for a Scandi home, what’s more, Whitehaven even comes in a herringbone pattern for those seeking a distinctive finish.
Benefits of Hybrid Flooring
- Waterproof – Hybrid flooring is 100% waterproof, meaning you don’t have to worry about damage in moisture prone areas such as laundries and kitchens.
- Unmatched durability – the dynamic core construction pf hybrid flooring makes it one of the most hardwearing flooring options available, with incredible impact and scratch resistance.
- Stunning Timber Look – Hybrid flooring features high definition timber prints, creating the realistic wood look flooring on the market.
- Widen your perspective – Embelton’s Hybrid range features 6 new wideboard planks for an expansive and luxurious aesthetic.
Laminate Flooring
Laminate flooring offers a stylish, durable alternative to hardwood. Interestingly, the concept was first introduced in Sweden in the early 1920s. After years of development, the Perstorp Corporation launched the first high-pressure laminate (HPL) floor in 1977.
Today, laminate is a go-to flooring option that combines visual appeal with long-lasting durability, perfect for high-traffic homes, especially those with children and pets.
Benefits of Laminate Flooring
- Stylish Options – Available in a variety of finishes like hand-scraped, distressed, or embossed to mimic authentic wood.
- Scratch-Resistant – High-quality laminate features a tough wear layer that guards against scratches and everyday damage.
- Easy Installation – Laminate planks typically feature a click-lock system, allowing them to float over subfloors without adhesive for quick and simple installation.
Additional Tips & Ideas for Warm Scandinavian Living Room
1. Incorporate Plants
Bringing greenery into your home is a simple and effective way to add a touch of nature—an essential element in Scandinavian design. Not only are plants a sustainable choice, but they also help purify the air and support mental well-being, making any space feel more welcoming and alive.
2. Layer with Soft Textiles
Introduce cosy touches through blankets, throws, and cushions. These add warmth during colder months and offer pops of colour to soften the otherwise neutral palette in summer. Much like the texture of wood grain, soft fabrics add visual and tactile depth to your interiors.
3. Use Rugs to Define Spaces
Rugs can enhance the look of your Scandinavian flooring while also protecting it. Stick to plain neutrals or rugs with simple, understated patterns. The shapes and lines of rugs contribute to the clean, geometric aesthetic that’s signature to Scandi interiors.
4. Thoughtful Lighting
Layered lighting makes all the difference. Combine ambient lighting with task lighting to keep your home bright and cosy. Floor lamps are great for adding light to dim corners and can easily be moved around to suit your space.
5. Choose Modern Furniture
Opt for mid-century modern furniture to complement the Scandinavian aesthetic. Clean lines, natural finishes, and minimal forms define this style. Incorporating white pieces also helps to maintain the bright, airy atmosphere typical of Scandinavian interiors.
6. Add Wall Accents
Don’t forget the walls—mirrors and artwork can bring balance and character to a room. Circular mirrors and minimalist art help introduce simple lines and shapes, reinforcing the Scandi look while keeping the space feeling open and harmonious.
Order your free samples from Embelton Flooring to start your Scandinavian flooring journey today.