Style Features
The fashion for the interior style of the Nordic countries came to Russia along with the concept of hygge. This is a feeling of maximum home comfort, coziness and completeness.
The formation of aesthetics was influenced by cultural characteristics that are associated with the harsh northern climate and a craving for nature (hence the prevalence of villages and rural life).
Therefore, the design is characterized by an abundance of wood, natural materials, elements of village life - patchwork blankets, woolen blankets, embroidered pillows and bedspreads, natural or artificial skins.
It may look a little rough, and in some places ungraceful, but these are real everyday items that you are not afraid to blow on. That is, functionality is combined with aesthetics.
The traditional Scandinavian religion, Lutheranism, plays an important role. She proclaimed the demands of simplicity, economy and modesty. In many ways, we owe to religion and the short winter daylight hours of the northern countries the Scandinavians’ special love for bright, simple interiors, varied lighting systems and the use of live fire (candles and their imitation, fireplaces).
The main features include:
- minimalism;
- absence of complex lines;
- main materials – natural wood, steel, ceramics, glass;
- house plants as a decorative element - these can be flowers in pots, edible greens or florariums with succulents;
- a lot of light - thanks to sconces, interior lighting and thoughtful placement of lamps, there is no dark corner left in the house;
- great attention to textiles.
Backlight Features
In photos of Scandinavian-style interiors, garlands can often be seen as lighting details. They are characteristic not only of him, but also of boho.
Individual lights can be either in the form of open light bulbs (usually LED), or with miniature lampshades made of paper or thread.
They act as night lights or interior lighting and create a pleasant romantic twilight. Such chamber lighting can be used both indoors and outdoors - for example, to decorate verandas.
Another feature is the love for candles. Scandinavians use not only the usual white products, but also various thicknesses and colors. A great love for various craft things is often expressed in handmade wax candles, in which various aromatic herbs and essential oils are mixed.
An interesting feature: if there are candles in candlesticks, they do not necessarily have to be lit. Often this is just interior decoration.
Lighting in the Scandinavian style in the interior is developed according to the principle: “The simpler, the better.” It is moderately decorative and functional to the maximum.
Constructions
Scandinavian-style chandeliers come in ceiling or hanging designs, usually with wooden or metal elements. The options for light sources are varied: from Edison bulbs and metal-framed lanterns to floor lamps and massive chandeliers.
Scandinavian style is characterized by bright lighting and large space.
The function of lighting fixtures in this interior is to further enrich the space with light. Correct geometric shapes will convey the spirit of Scandinavian sophistication and the strength of inner temperament.
One of the characteristic features of the Scandinavian style is multi-level lighting. In the interior design, in addition to the central chandelier, there must be floor lamps, wall sconces, and all kinds of lamps.
Often the stylistic character is emphasized by hanging ceiling lights at a low level, especially in a designated seating area, or above the kitchen table.
It is only necessary to take into account that the design of such a lighting device is more compact and does not interfere with free passage in the room.
Materials
In their works, the creators of lighting devices from Sweden, Norway and other Northern European countries combine incompatible materials such as metal, glass, wood and textiles, both natural and synthetic.
In addition, one of the tricks of Scandinavian designers is the use of everyday objects for other purposes.
Bottles, plastic spoons, dishes and even electricians' tools are used. They are combined into unusual designs, in the shape of flowers, exotic fruits, stars, etc. The result is very unusual chandeliers in the Scandinavian style. The effect of their originality is enhanced by the fact that several of these chandeliers are often used at once. They are hung side by side, creating unusual compositions.
At the same time, cotton ball lights are very popular in Europe. They are soft cotton balls with LED lights and can be used in clusters. Such original chandeliers in Scandinavian style
Materials and colors
White is the defining color in the design of the details of a Scandinavian style chandelier. This color of the model can fill the room with a warmer and more welcoming atmosphere.
Taking into account the Scandinavian love of nature and sea travel, contrasting tones can be included in the color scheme.
Noble beech, red oak, birch, walnut are the main finishing materials of Scandinavian designers. The quality and naturalness of the manufacturing material are the main characteristics of Scandinavian-style products.
Also interesting are product models that include materials such as fabric, paper, metal, glass.
Place in the interior
In the kitchen and dining area, the temperature is usually slightly elevated and there is humidity. Any chandelier, especially with the inclusion of small elements, will be subject to rapid contamination. Steam, grease and dust will settle on the device, resulting in a dirty, difficult-to-remove residue.
Accordingly, it is not recommended to install paper and fabric products in these rooms.
The ideal kitchen lighting fixture should be as simple in design as possible. The material used is necessarily wood, varnished or painted, or glass. Functional and practical products with long-term use are recommended for installation in the kitchen.
Scandinavian style can bring calm and harmony to children's rooms. The versatile and modern look of the products will always be relevant to the changing interests of growing children. A fashionable option would be garlands of balloons; they can be used to decorate mirrors and curtains in a nursery.
A chandelier with the inclusion of any material is relevant for the living room. These can be devices made of paper or wood, crystal. Chandeliers in the form of candles will look original and will add a certain atmosphere of mystery.
Universal Edison light bulbs, metal-framed lanterns, spotlights or floor lamps will shine above your favorite reading chair. You can also choose several lamps with lampshades.
Scandinavian style means a lot of light and more space. Therefore, you can safely choose chandeliers with a three-dimensional design that has a different geometric structure.
Lamps and chandeliers for a Scandinavian living room
For the living room, you can choose any material for modern lighting in the spirit of Scandinavia.
These can be paper and wooden chandeliers, options close to the classic style made of crystal or with light bulbs in the form of candles. Edison light bulbs, lanterns in a metal frame, a lamp in the form of a spotlight or a classic floor lamp that illuminate your favorite reading chair or sofa will be useful here.
An excellent solution would be to illuminate individual areas with a lamp - a floor lamp with adjustable height. This floor lamp has a switch on the shade, so you don’t have to look for it in the dark behind the sofa. The long adjustable lever allows you to set the lamp in the most convenient position. The solution is very creative and fashionable, perfect for the area of armchairs and sofas.
You can also choose several spotlights with chrome or glass shades; they can have simple shapes or be very original.
Scandinavian style loves light and space, which play a very important role in this interior. You can also choose industrial design lamps with modern geometric shapes. Scandinavian sophistication allows us to combine both of these forms, while we give the interior an internal temperament.
You can choose from a huge range of lamps and ceiling lights that combine simplicity and minimalism.
Peculiarities
There are a number of characteristic features of Scandinavian-style lighting fixtures:
- Monochrome variety of textures of the product material, but not shades.
- Natural materials such as textiles and wood are typical in use.
- Laconism and restraint in product design.
- Features of nature are visible in each line, natural and natural colors are predominantly used.
- Metal and wooden elements can be added to the design of the ceiling lamp.
- A kitchen ceiling light should not only match the style, but also be easy to maintain and clean.
- When choosing a lighting fixture for the living room, do not stop at the complex design.
Chandeliers are an additional element of the interior. However, when choosing large-sized models, you need to be prepared that the chandelier will be the center of attention.
Scandinavian style chandeliers – when to buy?
A chandelier should be the last element purchased when furnishing a room. It is important that this accessory matches the entire design of the room, so it is better to select it when all the furniture is already in the room. This will help you choose the right model. Chandeliers in a Scandinavian minimalist style can contain elements such as wood and metal, which will harmonize with similar elements in other stylized objects in the room. The color of the wood can be natural, and bleached wood is also popular.
Chandeliers are usually an addition to the interior, but if you choose large models, they come to the fore.
Character traits
Palette and architecture
Scandinavian style is characterized by a minimal color palette, cozy accents and modern furniture. Natural light is often used in the design. Playing with contrasts is a hallmark of Scandinavian design. For example, a white dining room might feature a black sculpture, creating a dramatic effect.
Contemporary furniture also contrasts with the richly decorated architecture often found in historic buildings in Europe.
Contrasting design elements and accessories
Even newly built modern spaces with minimal furnishings are key: a simple table and swan-style chairs are softened by light wood accents and rich tones of cognac leather.
Two simple lamps of different sizes made of blown white glass on pendants (Louis Poulsen, VL45) make the interior more original and highlight the desired area of the interior.
In Scandinavian-style interiors, against the background of calm white shades of the walls, paintings are presented in the form of contrasting elements or a dining group. Italian lamps in pastel colors are often used, such as Cocoon Gatto on a mirror table or, on the contrary, contrasting colors - wall lamp 265 (FLOS).
Colored art (paintings) is rarely found in Scandinavian interiors. But maybe a group of paintings complemented by greenery in a simple vase and a contrasting industrial style light fixture (DCW Edition).
Candles, often in simple brass holders, became a hallmark of the Hygge style. The candlestick is complemented by a vase on a thin brass base.
Closer to nature
Speaking of Hygge, the Danes try to make the interior cozy and comfortable in all aspects of the decor. Plenty of windows let in natural light, softened by a cozy warm-toned rug. A shelf with large gray pebbles gives a greater fusion with nature.
A contrasting element is an asymmetrical pendant lamp (Menu Lighting) in black.
Fireplaces are found in Scandinavian homes. They are usually placed in a corner or off-center of the wall. The furniture in this area is also decorated accordingly. Small accents are the chairs by the fireplace. The sofa is often placed along the wall, but leaving a small space behind it for passage.
Texture and color
Warm wood tones and sepia tones are popular in Scandinavia. Thanks to them, the room becomes sunnier and brighter, without the use of bright colors. The combination of shades of white, sepia and warm wood creates a cozy atmosphere in the room.
In such interiors, laconic lamps with a brass base and milky shades (FLOS, IC Light) are placed.
The Swedes and Danes are experts at creating coziness in bedrooms. Linen fabrics, woolen bedspreads, and decorative pillows in muted shades are used. In the bedrooms there are bedside wall lamps in natural colors (brass, aluminum), table lamps and ceiling lamps.
When you need to add color to the interior, use a small amount of bright colors (this is what they do in galleries).
Against the background of a neutral color base of the interior, carpets or furniture elements in blue or purple tones appear.
Scandinavian style is a mixture of periods and styles to create a cozy atmosphere. Oil paintings and gilded frames are harmoniously combined with dark furniture and huge industrial lamps.
What is acceptable?
It’s paradoxical, but true: Scandinavian designers see beauty precisely in the comfort and convenience of a lamp, and not in its elegant design. Therefore, when choosing lighting fixtures in the Scandi style, focus on functionality.
Use white liberally in the interior to enhance the lighting effect. Bright artificial light is not held in high esteem by Scandinavians, so light shades will help to dilute the darkness in the interior.
If you decide to completely decorate your house in Scandinavian style, then follow the rule of harmony and unity. To do this, use similar lamps in all rooms. Scandinavian style is universal, so the same chandelier can look equally attractive in both the dining room and the bedroom.
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Lighting is one of the most important features of Scandinavian-style interiors. Various lighting fixtures help make a space more comfortable, fill it with light, and even visually enlarge or transform the geometry of the room.
In this material we will talk about the TOP types of lamps that will look great in the space of Scandinavian rooms. And our photo examples will help you make your choice and teach you to distinguish between lighting fixtures in the total mass of options presented.
Lamps with glass shades are especially loved by designers. Let's start with the fact that glass is, in principle, one of the most relevant and popular materials today, which looks organically in any interior due to its versatility. This type of lighting provides soft, diffused light.
An alternative to the traditional carob chandeliers we see are scandinavian modern lamps. The main advantage of such lamps is that they allow you to adjust the direction of light. By the way, if you direct the light to the walls, you will visually expand the space of the room.
Do you like soft diffused light? Then you should opt for a chandelier with LED bulbs. This option is especially suitable for a Scandinavian bedroom - in this room the light should be soft and calm.
Crystal chandeliers in the form of balls. If you have a spacious and extensive area, then volumetric chandeliers with beautiful pendants will suit you. A round lamp with crystal details is a more universal solution that looks just as stylish, but does not clutter the interior and also creates a whimsical play of light.
High-tech lamps have several lighting surfaces. This way they can provide the room with enough light.
Pendant lamps with several shades at once are also popular. Often this type of lighting device is used to highlight a certain area. This could be a dining area - the main thing is that the lampshade is at a sufficient height from the dining table (minimum 70 centimeters).
Minimalist chandeliers: This is the best option for rooms with low ceilings, as minimalist chandeliers provide a lot of light without cluttering the room. This is a fairly universal type of lamp - used both in Scandinavian interiors and in loft style.
Thus, lamps often take on the main role in supporting other accent decorative elements if they provide color contrast, or they fit in neutrally, complementing the interior design.
What is unacceptable?
When choosing lighting fixtures in the Scandinavian style, one cannot neglect the style of the room.
Even if you do not intend to reproduce Nordic design in the interior, follow the rule of compatibility. Otherwise, it may turn out that a Scandinavian-style lamp will be an absurd accessory against the backdrop of the Baroque style.
Don't downplay the role of materials and textures. Scandinavian interior design is an abundance of natural wood, monochrome, the presence of glass and metal objects. Be sure to think about not only the situation around the lamp, but also what it will be like.
Using Scandinavian style lamps
The Scandinavian style design is meticulous down to the smallest detail. It is solid, thoughtful and functional. Such features create a special and incomparable character in the interior, which is so successfully emphasized by a variety of lamps in the Scandinavian style.
Scandinavian style ceiling lamps
With just one chandelier you can create not only comfortable lighting, but also a unique atmosphere.
Ceiling lamps in the Scandinavian style are a combination of laconicism, unusual appearance and natural materials.
Thanks to their unconventional design, they stand out against the background of the interior and set the right vector for design.
Scandinavian-style pendant lamps are the final puzzle in decorating a room. In order to create a focal point in the interior, you can purchase a huge chandelier.
The use of such large lamps does not contradict the concept of this direction, the main thing is that they fit the design and harmoniously combine with the surrounding objects.
If you are choosing lighting for the kitchen, remember that a Scandinavian-style chandelier should be of high quality, be easy to clean from dirty deposits and not be afraid of temperature changes. Avoid decorating this room with models that consist of a large number of small elements, as they are quite difficult to care for.
A minimalist Scandinavian-style pendant lamp is perfect for the kitchen. Its discreet design will fit perfectly with a balanced interior design.
Scandinavian style wall lamps
Wall lamps are most often used in areas where it is not possible to place a floor lamp or table lamp, but additional illumination of the space is required. Sconces in the Scandinavian style give the room an unusual and interesting look, without losing its relevance for a long time.
There are many options for wall lights, one of which is perfect not only for Scandi-style design, but also for decorating industrial interiors and lofts. This is an Edison lamp shaped lamp that looks like a large light bulb in a simple metal socket.
Such lamps are used both for decorating residential premises and for styling public institutions.
In children's rooms they use wall garlands with large light bulbs in the form of frosted balls. Such lamps look very gentle and cute. With their help, you can decorate not only walls, but also decorate curtain rods, window or doorways.
Such delicate lighting will be a great addition to the main lighting in the bedroom.
Alternative versions of Scandinavian style lamps
In addition to standard pendants, chandeliers and sconces, there are many options for interior lighting. Scandinavian-style ceiling lamps combine perfectly with floor lamps.
These can be either models with adjustable height, or all kinds of stylized models in the form of a lampshade on a bracket or a classic metal lamp on a long base.
A Scandinavian-style floor lamp on a movable frame is suitable for decorating a living room. This design allows the lampshade to be rotated in different directions.
Scandinavian style is an abundance of open space.
Therefore, in order not to clutter the interior, you can use spotlights in laconic glass or crystal glasses. Frame lampshades in the shape of complex geometric shapes look light and weightless.
Lamps are an integral part of the Scandinavian interior. They complement the design, create accent details in it and fulfill their usual role as a source of lighting.
The role and features of lighting fixtures in Scandi style
Lighting in a Scandinavian style interior is characterized by a combination of several types of lighting fixtures in one interior. Asymmetry and originality are encouraged. Each room has specific needs that should be taken into account when choosing light sources.
Chandeliers
Scandinavian-style chandeliers, photos of which are presented below, demonstrate the successful placement of color accents. Large chandeliers are typical for large rooms. A minimalist interior can be complemented with a classic chandelier with candles or a chandelier with shades in the Art Nouveau style. In addition to the built-in lighting, one large chandelier will harmoniously fit, emphasizing the direction of the chosen style.
Chandeliers in a Scandinavian interior stand out for their simplicity and at the same time originality. For example, these could be lampshades in the form of bottles, cups, chrome spheres or deer antlers. There are no limits to imagination, so you can introduce any ideas and experiments into the interior.
Floor lamps
A Scandinavian-style floor lamp or floor lamps are usually placed next to armchairs and sofas, thus highlighting a relaxation and reading area. Floor lamps with adjustable height are in high demand. Lampshades can be chrome plated, made of glass, paper and all kinds of natural materials.
Lamps and sconces
Scandinavian style lamps are elegant and unique. Designer creations made from natural materials and made by hand bring a special atmosphere and comfort to the interior. Sconces in the Scandinavian style serve as a real wall display.
Scandinavian interior is characterized by practicality and functionality. Even the decor should have a practical side. Why not take the opportunity to combine decorative wall elements with lighting fixtures. Scandinavian-style wall lamps will act as daytime decor that will provide light in the evening.
To summarize, we can come to the conclusion that the issue of lighting in a Scandinavian interior plays a multifunctional role:
- Scandinavian-style lamps are original and practical;
- a large amount of light will perfectly emphasize the Scandi character of the interior;
- Various modes will allow you to adjust the amount of light to suit your personal needs;
- can act as an accent or addition to the interior.
Take the opportunity and experiment with the choice of lighting fixtures in your interior.
Modern lamps in Scandinavian style
Scandinavian-style interiors are bright, simple and practical. They have very few elements that fill the space without a practical purpose, that is, trinkets. Not only furniture, but also decorations and accessories should be functional. This principle also applies to lighting, which must first and foremost meet the needs of the family and perform its intended functions well.
That is why, at the stage of designing a space, it is worth dividing the room into zones (for example, a recreation area, work area, study area), and taking into account the zoning of the space, choose the appropriate types of lighting.
Scandinavian lamp – dashing modernity
Increasingly, unusual types of lighting are appearing in our houses and apartments, and not just in Scandinavian interiors. Edison lamps, which consist of a colored cable and a large decorative light bulb, are gaining popularity in modern interiors.
Simplicity combined with bright colors makes them interesting and modern. These same characteristics allow them to fit perfectly into a Scandinavian-style interior. As we already know, the Scandinavian style is characterized by light and spacious interiors with a strong accent of color, and thanks to these lamps the interior will gain character.
A big advantage is the ability to create lamps and holders yourself, matching their color and cable to other accessories in the room.
Their simple yet avant-garde design is ideal for Scandinavian-inspired interiors. They break up the cool simplicity and attract the eye, which adds a little dashing and playful character to the room.
Scandinavian-style lamps with cotton ball lights or “cotton balls”
All types of LED lamps are extremely popular, primarily the so-called “cotton balls” or cotton ball lights. They are made from cotton of different colors and connected into garlands of 10, 20 or more pieces. They can hang, for example, on a curtain rod, above a crib or around a mirror.
Cotton ball lamps in fashionable colors will be a wonderful decoration for a child's room. Plus, no matter where you use them, they will bring warm and soft light to any place. This is a simple way to decorate a space, aimed at creating a cozy atmosphere. The balls can be laid along the cable in any order, you can create your own unique composition.
They can be separated, but they look better together. In the nursery they give the impression of glowing toys.
This is also a great idea for decorating a bedroom, living room or hallway in a Scandinavian style, where such a unique lamp, transmitting warm light, will create a pleasant atmosphere and mood. The set consists of balls, wires with light bulbs and has a switch.
There are also many other “light strings” on the market, including rattan ball lanterns, plastic lacy lanterns, and fancy-shaped paper lanterns.
Their big advantage is that they can be placed almost anywhere, as long as you choose a model that is battery-powered and uses little energy.
Metal lanterns in Scandinavian style
A practical and very stylish type of lighting is lanterns made of metal. They can resemble classic lanterns with glass walls and a small door through which a light source, such as a candle or a bunch of LED lamps, is inserted into the center.
Also interesting are the openwork lanterns in the shape of barrels, offered mainly in intense colors - turquoise, purple or sunflower. Lanterns can be installed anywhere - they look good on the porch or in the living room, and can be easily carried around. Glass lanterns are also popular.
Classic Scandinavian style lighting
Scandinavian style loves simple designs, so designer industrial style lamps are great for it. Large metal lamps in cool tones, such as gray or black, will look great in the kitchen.
Lamps in the form of reflectors can be used in the living room. The design on a movable bracket is especially convenient; it can be placed in a reading corner near your favorite chair.
Natural materials cannot be missed in Scandinavian interiors, which is why designer table lamps often have a base made of cork or other natural material.
There are also wooden and cardboard eco-style lamps and ceiling panels (usually placed in the kitchen). Each of these solutions is unique and deserves attention.
When choosing lighting fixtures and planning their placement in rooms, you should remember that lighting should be both functional and beautiful.
Each zone in the room should have separate lighting. The color of the light is also important. So, for example, a warm color would be suitable for a bedroom, but you might want to consider a cool color for a bathroom.
How to organize lighting in Scandinavian style
A short day in northern latitudes means the need for comfortable lighting. In this case, the lamps will not be a decorative element - the light sources are intended only for lighting rooms.
Complete lighting consists of a central ceiling lamp and side light sources - these can be table lamps, sconces and built-in lighting fixtures. The main requirement for light sources is unity of style. Ideally, lamps throughout the house should be decorated in the same style.
The design of lighting fixtures is characterized by calm lines and light tones; such lamps are characterized by the following properties:
- Minimum color combinations in design;
- Discreet, laconic exterior;
- Floral ornaments;
- Natural materials - metal, wood, textiles, glass.
