3. Embrace Texture, Not Clutter (but skip the bouclé!)
Layer natural textures like wool, linen, fur, and matte ceramics. Texture brings warmth without the need for excess stuff. Go easy on the bouclé – cream bouclé and beige bouclé have both had it’s day. If you go with bouclé, do it in a rust red, terracotta, or another deep, moody color.

4. Prioritize Natural Light
Keep windows as bare as possible. Use soft, flowing curtains or lined drapes pulled to the side by day. Light is essential to the Scandi soul, and creates a gorgeous moody vibe as well.

5. Add Stripes (Yes, Really)
Stripes are back! When in doubt, add something with stripes into the room. A bench, an ottoman, a rug or a sofa.

6. Layer and Build On Your Neutrals
Neutrals are still the base, but not boring and not only neutrals. Look for subtle tone variations: creamy whites, warm beige, soft clay, and stormy greys. Layer in deep, mood colors, or add some fresh accents of lilac or mustard, or army green.

7. Think Modular and Multipurpose
Scandi living is practical. Choose furniture that can adapt, like an ottoman that doubles as storage or a side table that moves with you. Modular sofas allow you to add or move away pieces are wonderful, I love building a sofa according to my needs and changing as I go.

8. Show Imperfections
Wabi-sabi meets Nordic charm remains a fixed part of Nordic style. Think handmade objects, uneven glazes, vintage finds… they all add personality and soften the sleek.

9. Create ‘Slow Zones’
Design corners or nooks that invite stillness, like a cozy armchair with a view, a tea table by the window, or a floor cushion by the bookshelf.

10. Bring In Your Vibe
Scandinavian style isn’t about copying or creating an “Instagram-perfect home” or something from a catalog. It’s about aligning your space with what you need. Try to make sure you start any design scheme with a mood board and a palette of your favorite colors and textures, patterns and favorite accents (like that lamp you love or the cabinet that came from your grandmother). The foundation of your home should be those favorite, cherished things.

What do you think? Do you see Scandi design moving more and more into the personality-rich, sensory home zone? I see it and say YES – I’m ready for more soulful living vibes from the north.

Love,

Holly