Scandinavian style has had a huge impact on the world of interior design. It is thoroughly modern and yet manages to influence almost every decorating style out there from mid-century to contemporary. Even though the Scandinavian design is all about minimal use of color and clutter, a Nordic-style nursery can still be warm and cozy.
Browsing through Scandinavian inspired living rooms may not make it seem appealing for a nursery but it’s actually a great choice. A minimalist canvas reduces clutter and the opportunity for dust and germs to collect. It’s also the perfect canvas to add color and design ideas as your child grows up. If you’re looking for ways to incorporate Scandinavian style in your baby’s new nursery, here are a few tips that can help.
Start with a neutral color palette
When you want a Scandinavian inspired nursery room, it is best to start with a neutral color palette. Pick one or two primary colors to dominate the room. Some popular combinations include black and white, brown and white, white and gray, etc. Other great choices are lighter pastel shades such as lilac or pale yellow.
Don’t think you have to stop there or not use any other color. The one or two colors you start with are great options for the color of the walls and furniture like the crib. You can use these colors to bring everything in the room together. But you can always add pops of color with rugs, books, or toys.
Cribs and dressers from the Flexx collection in natural wood colors are a good example of Scandinavian inspired nursery furniture. These pieces work extremely well with plain white or patterned walls.
Add texture and patterns
Many Nordic style nurseries feature white walls but it doesn’t mean you have to keep them plain. Dress it up a little with small patterns of animals or flowers. It’s another way to add some movement or a natural motif into the room. You can use patterned wallpaper or decals to brighten up otherwise empty walls. Another option is to create a statement wall to focus the eye and leave the others plain.
Fabrics are a great way to soften the lines of Scandinavian design and give the opportunity to add color. Another advantage of this approach is that you can always mix up the color scheme by removing pieces that no longer work for your child. Area rugs, sheets, throw pillows, and curtains all offer exciting opportunities just waiting for you to explore.
A more subtle way to add some texture to your space is two use furniture with dual finishes. A wooden piece with glossy facades or Rustico Moderno‘s signature two-tone finish make for perfect options.
Clean lines and less clutter
Nordic style values functionality but not clutter. Who says you need hundreds of little items in a nursery? What most families need are a few solid pieces that can serve multiple purposes.
A crib that can convert into a daybed and toddler bed is a great example. You can find furniture that can serve as both storage and shelving. A dresser with 3 drawers can also work as a shelf for displaying photographs or art pieces. Furniture with wheels allows you to rearrange the room. Seating with built-in storage or a changing table that converts to a desk is a great idea in your nursery.
These types of furniture pieces minimize clutter and allow more room to add personal touches. Emphasize personal mementos and gifts from friends and family instead of the furniture.
Use natural materials
The Scandinavian design takes a minimalist approach to decor but it also emphasizes the use of natural materials over synthetic. It balances aesthetics and functionality, so your nursery can be practical and beautiful at the same time. Why should sacrifice one for the other when you can have both?
Natural material doesn’t just mean wooden furniture, although it’s a great start. All the pieces in the Vibe collection are made of solid wood and proudly showcase it in several natural finishes like brown and white bark. You can also add plants for a touch of nature. Whether it is a giant indoor plant or a shelf of smaller succulents, it lends a touch of warmth to any nursery.
Make it whimsical
Most Nordic-inspired nurseries feature a touch of whimsy somewhere. Encourage your little one’s imagination with colorful mushrooms, fairy lights or lively patterns. Children don’t need a ton of stuff to play with. A few thoughtfully chosen pieces will go a long way instead.
Another great reason to go Nordic in the nursery is that you can easily create a gender-neutral nursery for your baby. A neutral color palette allows you to add colors in small doses throughout the room. Who says unicorns have to be pink all the time?
It’s not hard to use elements of Scandinavian style in your baby’s nursery. Use these tips to create a calm and playful space for your child!