Furnishing with Nordic furniture means seeking harmony, serenity, cosiness, minimalism

Northern European furniture to imitate a lifestyle of well-being and happiness

The Scandinavian traditions and way of life, regularly rewarded by various rankings that measure the happiness and well-being of the population according to various indicators, have now left the geographical confines of Northern Europe to spread throughout the world.

In design, both for aspects related to their functionality and for the relaxed and serene effect they convey, Nordic furniture is very popular and increasingly used in flats of various kinds.

Some concepts that have an effect on Nordic furniture design

In the collective imagination and from what emerges, the lifestyle of northern countries is characterised by contact with nature and harmony. One concept that has spread is the Danish higgye, a modus operandi that has to do with comfort, cosiness and conviviality, both in the home and in society.

Now gaining ground is the Swedish lagom, literally ‘neither too much nor too little’, characterised by a constant search for balance, harmony and sustainability. All these ways of understanding everyday life are also reflected in the Nordic interior design style.

Nordic interior design is minimalist and serene

Nordic furniture is therefore essentially characterised by great simplicity. Their design is very clean and linear, without excessive elements, in a quest for a serene minimalism, where everything that is needed is available, neglecting the superfluous that might disturb the harmonious atmosphere. They often use straight lines and geometric shapes, which have not only an aesthetic purpose but are extremely functional.

Each piece of furniture is in fact designed to perform its task to the best of its ability, with great attention to order. The overall appearance of the rooms should be that of a well thought-out, uncluttered, serene and convivial environment. Minimalism does not, however, mean emptiness: decorative elements such as prints recalling nature, plants and candles are welcome.

The importance of light in Nordic furniture and its clear, neutral palette

A basic element is light, which is often sought through large windows. Being able to enjoy natural light and large windows and openings is ideal if you choose to furnish your home in a Nordic style; if this is not possible, lighting must play an important role.

The feeling of brightness is accentuated by the choice of colours, with light shades. Neutral tones, such as whites, greys and beiges or pastel tones, are popular.

In Scandinavian interior design (another way of defining the Nordic style), garish colours have little place, if anything as occasional ‘splashes’ of colour: if you like bold hues, at most you can add them with accessories, but in moderation. A neutral, clear and bright palette should dominate.

From materials to manufacturing processes, Nordic furniture must be environmentally sustainable

The emphasis is on materials and their sustainability. The predominant one is wood, which is absolutely natural and environmentally friendly, for all Nordic furniture in every room.

For Scandinavians, it is very important to focus on environmentally friendly elements that are as recyclable as possible and have a long life cycle. Mostly local woods are used, such as pine, oak or birch, which are often bleached and made light. Fabrics are also natural, such as leather, wool or linen, and stones are also popular.

Room by room, how to furnish with Nordic furniture

As far as individual rooms are concerned, in the living room, a warm blanket, combined with a rug, is provided on sofas with simple, clean lines. Characteristic are coffee tables with slender legs, which can never be missing when talking about a living room with Nordic furniture, as well as shelves and bookcases.

The bedroom with scadinava is cosy and functional, using chests and wardrobes that can hold everything you need, if you want a desk and elements such as armchairs for relaxing during the day. In kitchens, there is always room for a long table or a peninsula, perhaps combined with stools, to eat all together.

Il Piccolo, second generation family-run carpentry shop, opens its showroom in Lugano. With over 50 years of experience, Il Piccolo brings with it a wealth of technical and design knowledge of the highest level, thanks to the many interiors designed and furnished all over the world. In addition, Il Piccolo represents the most prestigious brands of furniture worldwide. Il Piccolo designs, manufactures and sells the best of interior design made in Italy, following the customer from design to implementation, delivery and installation of the work, integrating the process with a precise and professional service. CONTACT US!