With so many different design trends available to you, it can be difficult to decide on one for your home.

What if modern, traditional, farmhouse, or any other popular styles simply aren't for you?

If this is the case, consider giving Scandinavian interior design a try. From light, airy colors, clean-lined furniture, and a highly functional layout, this may be the perfect design for you if you are looking for something a little different.

History of Scandinavian Design

Before we dive into the exact details of this design trend, we should first take a look at where it began and how it got to where it is today.

This movement began during the end of the 19th century as modernism began to take off. Following 1880, a designer by the name of William Morris expressed his dislike of the designs brought about by the Industrial Revolution. He wanted to go against the mass-produced, carbon copy designs seen everywhere and focused more on nature and art, as well as the creativity fostered by humans found in Romanticism.

For the next 30 years, the modernist movement would take off and bleed into the furniture, textiles, and other design elements we see signs of today.

Scandinavian Design: Flooring

So what kinds of elements factor into proper Scandinavian design? There are a lot of different things to take into account, so let's start with flooring.

The traditional design theme has a heavier emphasis on wall to wall carpeting to add warmth and comfort to rooms. When it comes to properly pulling off the Scandinavian interior, however, these rooms are highly dominated by wood flooring.

Focus on lighter finishes to keep things warm and airy, while utilizing area rugs for spaces where you want a little more cushion and color. When in doubt on a specific color, a light grey finish on the wood is always a perfect touch for this theme.

Scandinavian Design: Color

Just like any design theme, one of the most important factors to account for is your choice and use of color in your home. While other themes may call for some splashes of color in certain areas, a proper Scandinavian design stays away from bright colors and focuses more on a natural feel to the space.

White walls are a great way to compliment your lighter grey flooring, and balancing these shades out with some dark blue textiles and accessories like throw pillows and blankets will help tie the entire space together.

Scandinavian Design: Furniture

In the grand scheme of interior design, there is arguably no more important element than the furniture. When it comes to Scandinavian themed furniture, the only word you need to remember is simplicity.

Much like a modern look, this pieces should feature sharp lines, a sleeker, straighter profile, and still leave plenty of space throughout the room.

When picking out your sofa for this theme, a three-seater sofa will work in virtually any space you place it. Compliment it with a trendy single chair and you can create a beautiful living room.

Do you have Scandinavian design in your home? What are your favorite pieces or features? Let us know in the comments!