Scandinavian vs Minimalist Interior Design Styles: What is The Difference?
In the ever-evolving world of interior design, two styles have risen to global prominence, captivating homeowners with their shared philosophy of "less is more." Scandinavian and Minimalist design both champion simplicity, clean lines, and uncluttered spaces. Yet, while they appear similar at a glance, a closer look reveals they are two distinct aesthetic languages, each with a unique history, philosophy, and practical application. Learn more »
While both styles emphasize simplicity, functionality, and clean aesthetics, they are not identical. Many homeowners and design enthusiasts confuse them, believing Scandinavian design is just another form of minimalism. In reality, as already mentioned earlier, these two styles share common ground but differ significantly in philosophy, appearance, and ambiance.
However, when you browse interior design magazines, Pinterest boards, or Instagram feeds, you’re bound to see Scandinavian and Minimalist interiors popping up everywhere. Both styles are known for their sleek lines, functional spaces, and uncluttered atmospheres. At first glance, they might appear identical, but when you take a closer look, you’ll notice subtle yet significant differences.
At a glance, Scandinavian design adds warmth, coziness, and a touch of nature, while Minimalist design embodies extreme simplicity and the philosophy of owning less. Understanding these distinctions helps you decide which style better suits your personality, lifestyle, and home environment.
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| Img. 1- A comparison between Scandinavian and Minimalist interior design styles. Photo source: www.bria.com.ph |
In this guide, we will provide our comprehensive breakdown of the core differences between Scandinavian and Minimalist interior design. We’ll delve into their foundational philosophies, visual aesthetics, and the subtle nuances that determine which style is the perfect fit for your home and lifestyle. So then, let's get started!
Origins of the Two Styles
1- Scandinavian Interior Design Origins
Scandinavian interior design emerged in the early 20th century in countries like Sweden, Denmark, Norway, and Finland. It gained global popularity in the 1950s, focusing on creating homes that feel light, airy, and functional. Influenced by the harsh Nordic climate, long winters, and limited daylight, the design style emphasizes natural light, warmth, and comfort.
The Scandinavian philosophy is not only about aesthetics but also about a lifestyle concept known as “hygge”—a Danish word that encompasses coziness, well-being, and the enjoyment of simple pleasures.
👉 Continue reading till the next section to learn more about this fact.
2- Minimalist Interior Design Origins
Minimalist interior design, on the other hand, has its roots in Japanese Zen philosophy and the modernist art movement of the early 20th century. The style grew in popularity in the 1960s and 70s, reflecting a lifestyle that values clarity, order, and the mantra “less is more.”
Unlike Scandinavian design, minimalism is less about warmth and more about purity, function, and discipline. It encourages reducing possessions and focusing only on what is essential.
🛈 The Philosophy Behind the Two Styles: The Heart of the Matter
The most profound difference between these two styles lies not in their appearance but in their underlying motivation. While both seek to simplify, their reasons for "doing so" are fundamentally different. Understanding this core philosophy is the key to unlocking the true essence of each style.
1- The Scandinavian Philosophy: A Quest for Coziness and Balance
Scandinavian design, often simply called "Scandi style," is deeply rooted in the Nordic way of life. It’s a design language born from a need to create warm, inviting spaces to combat long, dark winters. Its principles are captured by two key concepts:
- Hygge (pronounced "hoo-ga"): A Danish and Norwegian word that embodies a mood of coziness, comfort, and contentment. It’s about creating a feeling of well-being, whether through a soft wool blanket, a flickering candle, or a warm cup of coffee. The focus is on finding joy in simple, everyday moments.
- Lagom (pronounced "lah-gom"): A Swedish term meaning "just the right amount" or "in balance." It’s about not having too much, and not too little. Lagom is a philosophy of moderation and sufficiency. It ensures that while the space is simplified, it never feels deprived or sterile.
Ultimately, Scandinavian design uses simplicity as a tool to cultivate comfort and emotional warmth. Every element is chosen to contribute to a cozy, happy environment. (Img. 2)
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| Img. 2- A cozy Scandinavian-style living room filled with natural light, featuring warm textures, and leafy houseplants. Photo source: www.decor8blog.com |
2- The Minimalist Philosophy: A Radical Reduction to the Essential
Minimalism, as an aesthetic, is an extension of a broader lifestyle philosophy. It’s a deliberate and extreme act of stripping away all non-essential elements to focus on the truly purposeful objects. The goal of a Minimalist home is not just an uncluttered space, but an uncluttered mind.
Key principles of Minimalist design include:
- Function over Form: Objects are valued for their utility, not their decorative qualities. If an item doesn't serve a clear purpose, it doesn’t belong.
- Purposeless living: The style seeks to remove the distractions of consumer culture and focus on a life of intention. The aesthetic is the result of this conscious choice, not the goal itself.
- A "blank canvas" approach: Minimalist spaces often feel like a clean slate, free of visual noise and personal clutter. They are serene, stark, and highly disciplined.
In essence, while Scandinavian design uses simplicity to add warmth, Minimalist design uses it to achieve a sense of purity and absolute clarity. (Img. 3)
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| Img. 3- A serene and modern living room featuring a "Minimalist interior design" style with clean lines, light wood furniture, and a neutral color palette. Photo source: thespruce.com |
Features of The Scandinavian Interior Design
Here are the main characteristics of the Scandi interior design style:
- Light and Bright Spaces: Emphasis on maximizing natural light, often through large windows and sheer curtains. Walls are typically painted white or in light shades to reflect brightness, a response to the long, dark Nordic winters.
- Neutral and Muted Color Palette: Dominated by whites, grays, beige, and soft pastel accents. Occasionally incorporates muted blues, greens, or blush tones for a subtle pop of color.
- Natural Materials: Extensive use of wood (especially light woods like pine, birch, or ash) in floors, furniture, and accents. Complemented with natural textiles such as wool, linen, and cotton.
- Simplicity and Functionality: Clean lines and uncluttered layouts. Furniture is sleek, practical, and often multifunctional. Every element is both beautiful and useful. Learn more »
- Cozy Atmosphere (Hygge): Incorporates soft furnishings such as throw blankets, cushions, and rugs. Warm lighting from pendant lamps, floor lamps, and candles creates a welcoming ambiance.
- Connection to Nature: Plants and greenery bring life indoors. Designs often blur the line between indoor and outdoor living.
- Minimal but Inviting Décor: Avoids clutter but includes personal touches. Artworks, ceramics, or handcrafted objects are chosen carefully for quality and meaning.
- Open, Airy Layouts: Spaces feel expansive and breathable, even in small apartments. Scandinavian design balances openness with coziness, avoiding the starkness often found in strict minimalism.
👉 In essence, Scandinavian Interior Design is about creating bright, functional, and cozy spaces that combine simplicity with warmth, reflecting a lifestyle that values comfort, practicality, and connection with nature.
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| Img. 4- Scandinavian Style adds a minimalist and charming aesthetic to any space. Photo source: rowabi.com |
Features of The Minimalist Interior Design
Here are the main characteristics of this interior design style:
- “Less is More” Philosophy: The core principle of minimalism is simplicity—keeping only what is essential. Spaces are stripped of unnecessary decoration, focusing on functionality and clarity.
- Neutral Color Palette: Dominated by whites, blacks, grays, and beiges. Sometimes includes slight accent tones, but overall, the palette is calm, restrained, and monochromatic. Learn more »
- Clean Lines and Geometric Shapes: Furniture and architecture feature straight, sleek lines. Designs avoid ornate details, patterns, or complex shapes.
- Open and Uncluttered Spaces: Rooms feel spacious and airy, often using open floor plans. Surfaces are kept clear—no excess accessories or knick-knacks. Learn more »
- Functional Furniture: Every piece of furniture has a clear purpose. Multifunctional and built-in designs are common, reducing the need for excess items.
- Quality over Quantity: Minimalism favors fewer but higher-quality pieces rather than filling the room with many objects. Materials are durable, often natural (wood, stone, glass, steel), but are used sparingly.
- Natural Light and Simple Lighting: Spaces are designed to maximize natural light. Lighting fixtures are sleek, understated, and purposeful rather than decorative.
- Calm and Serene Atmosphere: Minimalist interiors evoke a sense of order, clarity, and calmness. The emptiness is intentional—it allows the mind to feel clear and focused.
👉 In essence, Minimalist Interior Design is about creating a disciplined, uncluttered, and functional environment that reflects intentional living. It’s less about coziness (like Scandinavian design) and more about achieving serenity through simplicity.
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| Img. 5- Minimalist interior design with modern elegance and panoramic city views. Photo credits: decoraid.com |
Key Differences Between Scandinavian and Minimalist Interiors
Though similar, here are the most important differences:
- Aesthetic Approach: Scandinavian design emphasizes warmth and coziness, while Minimalist design focuses on stark simplicity.
- Use of Color: Scandinavian interiors use soft, muted tones with occasional pastels, whereas Minimalism often sticks to monochrome palettes.
- Texture and Materials: Scandinavian design integrates wood, textiles, and plants for a natural feel, while Minimalism minimizes textures and avoids decorative elements.
- Function vs. Philosophy: Scandinavian design aims for comfort and functionality; Minimalism is about a disciplined lifestyle and reduction.
- Atmosphere: Scandinavian spaces feel inviting and lived-in, while Minimalist interiors can feel serene but sometimes cold or austere.
- Similarities Between the Two Styles
Despite their differences, both styles share common values:
- Simplicity and functionality are central.
- Clean lines and uncluttered layouts define both.
- Both prioritize quality over quantity.
- They avoid heavy ornamentation and excess decoration.
The Aesthetics: A Visual Comparison
Now that we understand the philosophical foundation, let's explore how these beliefs translate into the visible elements of each style, from the color palette to the choice of materials.
A. Color Palette: Warm Neutrals vs. Monochromatic Discipline
- Scandinavian: The Scandi color palette is a direct reflection of its surroundings. It relies on a base of warm, muted neutrals like whites, soft grays, and beiges. These are then accented with colors found in nature—deep forest greens, earthy terracotta, and light ocean blues. The use of light is paramount, and the palette is designed to maximize and reflect the limited natural light of the Nordic regions.
👉 Learn more about warm color palettes here.»
- Minimalist: The Minimalist color scheme is typically monochromatic and strict. A pure white is often the primary color, with accents of black, charcoal gray, or shades of beige. This limited palette enhances the feeling of vastness and order, but can also feel stark and cold to some. Color is not used for emotional warmth, but to create a visually quiet and cohesive space.
B. Materials & Textures: Natural Warmth vs. Sleek Purity
This is arguably the most significant visual differentiator.
- Scandinavian: The interiors are tactile and full of texture. They celebrate natural materials in their most unadorned state. Think light-colored wood (birch, pine, ash) on floors, furniture, and walls. Textiles are crucial for adding warmth: wool, cotton, linen, and sheepskin are used liberally in blankets, rugs, and throws. The texture is what makes the space feel cozy and inviting. (Img. 6)
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| Img. 6- A bright and modern living room showcasing the Scandinavian interior design style, featuring a pop of bold color with a teal sofa. Photo source: www.moderndane.com/ |
- Minimalist: Minimalist design often embraces clean, sometimes man-made materials with smooth, polished surfaces. Common materials include concrete, stainless steel, glass, and polished stone. Where wood is used, it’s often in a dark shade and treated to have a uniform, non-porous finish. The emphasis is on a lack of visual "noise," so surfaces are often flat and unadorned.
C. Furniture: Functional Curves vs. Geometric Lines
- Scandinavian: Scandinavian furniture is known for its graceful curves, clean lines, and ergonomic shapes. It’s both beautiful and highly functional. Think of the iconic Eames lounge chair or simple wooden dining chairs with rounded edges. The furniture is designed to be comfortable and inviting, not just to exist as a sculptural form. (Img. 7)
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| Img. 7- Scandinavian living room with a plush sectional sofa, warm textured throws, soft cushions, and a cozy fireplace for timeless comfort. Photo credits: decorilla.com |
- Minimalist: The furniture is often characterized by extremely straight, geometric lines. It's streamlined, with little to no ornamentation. The focus is on a sleek profile and a seamless look. Furniture in a Minimalist space is an essential part of the architecture, often blending in rather than standing out.
Blending Scandinavian and Minimalist Elements
Interestingly, many modern homes combine Scandinavian minimalism, merging the best of both worlds. This mixed style uses the warmth and natural textures of Scandinavian design while adopting the clean lines and decluttered spaces of Minimalism.
Tips for blending the two styles:
- Stick to a neutral palette but add natural wood for warmth. (Refer to the related section above)
- Use multifunctional, sleek furniture.
- Keep clutter to a minimum while allowing a few cozy elements like rugs or throw blankets.
- Add plants for a touch of life without over-decorating.
FAQ | How to Choose the Right Style for Your Home?
- Lifestyle: If you value coziness and warmth, Scandinavian design may suit you better, but if you prefer discipline and order, Minimalism is ideal.
- Climate: In colder, darker climates, Scandinavian interiors bring light and comfort. Minimalism works well in modern urban settings.
- Personal Taste: Do you love natural textures and cozy textiles? Then go Scandinavian. Do you thrive in sleek, clean, distraction-free spaces? Choose Minimalist.
To Conclude...
Scandinavian and Minimalist interior design styles may look alike at first glance, but they serve different purposes and evoke different emotions. Scandinavian interiors are all about warmth, light, and functionality with a human touch, while Minimalist interiors embrace the philosophy of living with less, focusing on discipline and simplicity.
When choosing between the two, think about your lifestyle, your environment, and what makes you feel most at home. Whether you prefer the coziness of Scandinavian design, the serene clarity of Minimalism, or a combination of both, understanding these styles will help you create a space that truly reflects your personality.
