Simple, charming, minimalist, but not bare. Scandinavian kitchens are very easy to recognize if you know what they are. They’re simple and natural to the eyes, but they aren’t terrifyingly bare either. Scandinavian kitchen designs are rooted in simplicity, incorporating warm and natural materials—especially wood—to bring out the best in one’s kitchen.

For a clearer perspective, IKEA is probably the most iconic representation of how Scandinavian colors are used properly. Many of their designs are very minimal, and the way they use pale and light colors while still maintaining depth showcases what Scandinavian design fundamentally is.

Below, we’ll be dissecting six ways to incorporate the Scandinavian style into your kitchen, starting with:

 

  1. Pale and Light Colors

Scandinavian kitchen styles thrive when everything—the flooring, the walls, the ceiling, the furniture, and even the appliances—are pale, and light colors are used. Using pale shades of black, grey, white, and brown is a must.

Colors like deep onyx, stone or dirty white, and beige are great Scandinavian colors to start from and use as a base. 

 

  1. Wood Flooring

There are other flooring options, but wood flooring is probably one of the most important elements of the Scandinavian style and the easiest option out there. The ability of flooring to influence the energy of an entire room is understated.

Engineered high-quality wood is the go-to in order to avoid warping. Although it’s more expensive than most tiled-flooring options, it’s definitely worth it. Matching the wood flooring color to the ceiling and walls will also help.

P.s. It is important to pull off a light base with smooth and textured grains!

 

  1. Reclaimed Materials

Nothing screams natural more than reclaimed materials. Bricks, window frames, glass panels, ceramic tiles, and fireplaces are all feasible options you can reuse from your old kitchen pre-renovation.

It gives off a charm that adds to the entire Scandinavian aesthetic, but of course, you’ll have to embrace the elements fundamental to Scandinavian design.

 

  1. Limed Wood

Using limed wood is a good idea—especially for furniture that complements your kitchens, like the cabinets and cupboards. It’s light, soft has a fine texture, and has this whiteish and yellow glow to it.

Contrasting it with darker-colored center tables and chairs may help create some dynamic while still maintaining a minimalist design. Playing around with the placement of the furniture will also help add depth if your kitchen isn’t that spacious.

 

  1. Incorporate Natural Light

Finding a way to incorporate natural light. Sure, the sun won’t be cooperating with you every single day, but when it does, it makes it all worth it. Part of what makes the Scandinavian style beautiful is its balance between artificial and natural light for a bright and blooming workspace.

If possible, add large, tall, glass windows on the sides with natural light sources and avoid curtains. Not only does it allow natural light to pass through, but it also opens up your kitchen, providing much-needed space and depth.

Not to mention, with large windows comes a great view of your outdoor area, so you’ll have more of the natural aesthetic that Scandinavian style flourishes in natural lighting. Not only is it beautiful, but it also saves you a lot in electricity.

 

  1. Add Plants

Potted plants will elevate your kitchen. The plants will add more to the natural feel of the kitchen while taking up empty spaces. Although it may seem impractical to have plants in the kitchen, it’s important for the Scandinavian design.

Plants will help add texture and neutral colors and act as a layer of accessory for the kitchen. Snake plants, monstera, aloe vera, rubber figs, and other foliage plants are great additions.