Distinctive Features of Scandinavian-Style Country Houses
Not only urban apartments in northern latitudes have distinctive features, but also country houses. Scandinavians have their favorite techniques for designing their plots and the exterior of their homes. And this style closely resembles the design of our country houses, making it easy to adapt to local realities. Here’s what you’ll need to achieve that.
Dark Facades
Gray, almost black paint for the facades of country houses is a characteristic trend in Scandinavian (and not only) countries. It is still rare to see it here, but it’s definitely worth considering. This bold solution has many advantages: it requires fewer layers of paint, summer flowers and trees stand out better against such a background, and the house itself looks more cohesive, graphic, and stylish.
Vintage Furniture
All those wooden buffets, old armchairs, tables, and chairs for the dining area create a sense of historical continuity that Scandinavians value. We can also achieve this by simply refurbishing old furniture, updating upholstery, varnish, and repairing any flaws. And suddenly, grandma’s armchair will shine with the renewed edges of its design.
Firewood as Decor
Fireplaces and wood-burning stoves are constant features in Scandinavian interiors. And where there is a hearth, there are firewood. In the northern latitudes, they are used as decoration, not hidden from view but placed in the foreground. Create a small log storage near the stove or in the kitchen, so you won’t have to go far for firewood, and the room will be filled with a natural, rustic vibe.
“Wild” Garden
Scandinavian country houses and interiors are characterized by a light, deliberate casualness. This also applies to gardens: it seems as if the flowers have slightly exceeded the boundaries of the flowerbeds, the climbing plants have taken up a bit more wall space than intended, and the lawn has skipped a couple of scheduled trims.
Garden Furniture Made of Wood
Scandinavian style is all about nature, naturalness, and authenticity. Therefore, plastic garden furniture is rarely found here, with wooden, rattan, and metal sets being more common. This applies to dining groups, outdoor kitchens, and even loungers, which Scandinavians prefer to soften with cushions and lightweight mattresses.
Painted Paneling
Wooden finishes continue inside the house, but instead of the familiar yellow shade, Scandinavians opt for colorful or bleached tones. This decision makes the space feel more open and spacious, visually increasing the ceiling height.
Rugs and Runners
For flooring, both in the city and in country houses, wood is preferred in the Scandinavian style. And to make it even cozier, a rug is added on top. It’s even better to find handwoven rugs: their diverse texture and imperfect pattern will contrast beautifully with modern furniture items.
Large Windows
The low and short northern sun compels residents of Scandinavian countries to catch every ray, so they love large windows and install glass doors. This can also work for us, but proper load calculation is necessary.
