Of all the different wall decor styles out there, Scandinavian wall decor is probably one of the most popular, thanks to its modern lines and clean look.
A lot of times, we see a design somewhere and think to ourselves,”Hey, that looks really nice and familiar. I wonder what style is that?”.
Another scenario is when visiting a friend’s place and see all the cool furniture livening up the place, prompting the question,”Where is your furniture from?” or “What kind of style are your wall decor?”.
So what exactly is Scandinavian style or Scandinavia home design? Let’s give it a closer look and then take a short virtual tour of great examples.
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If you look closely, you will notice that the designs are primarily made up of clean and sharp lines, almost like a minimalist feel.
The designers often place functionality as a priority but look to incorporate beauty with form rather than replace it.
I think what’s most striking to most is the lack of complication, being clutter-free, and aesthetically pleasing throughout.
You will also often find that rooms following the Scandinavian design principles are large, airy and bright, versus the preference of darker tones in Mid Century Modern (MCM) designs.
In modern times, you might even have heard of hygge, and offshoot of the style created by the Danish.
One characteristic that often springs up is the use of light-colored wood.
The people have a strong love of nature and incorporate it into the home decor.
That includes the use of other natural products such as leather and hemp too.
Their choice of colors are mostly neutral, but plays with contrast to bring about a textured effect.
Use of gray-blue, white, black and tan is most prevalent. Think tan or dark chairs against an all white living room.
However, there are instances where they play around with colors, and none more so than Scandinavian wall art. Wall photo frames frequently showcase abstract art or nature photography. Arrange them alongside an accent wall mirror for best effects!
When it comes to using of textiles, the choice of colors is more varied in order to create a different layer to the room.
It is no surprise to find a sheepskin throw or mohair carpet to mix things up completely, transforming a cold drab room into a warm lively one.
These days, it is not surprising for people to experiment with a mixture of styles.
One example is choosing Scandinavia as its main style, and mixing it up with wall art from another era, or objects that comes from another period of time.
The end result is often stunning, a beautiful historical object taking centerstage among the neutral tones in the background.
Need some inspiration for Scandinavian wall decor? Here’s 8.
There is no shortage of inspiration online since this is one of the most popular styles around. Unlike some styles that come and go, Scandinavia is timeless and here to stay. Let’s have a look at some beautiful designs.
While you are shopping…
We endeavour to show you items in the rooms we showcase, but sometimes they just aren’t available, that’s why you will see the closest match. Also, we love home decor too, so we will recommend items we adore as well 🙂
‘Watercolor Butterfly’ Picture Frame Print on Paper. Beautiful butterfly portrait, great amount of details and painted in cool colors. Includes hooks that makes mounting an straightforward and easy job.
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Painted Puzzle by Morgan Yamada. Spice up your walls with this refreshing wall art piece. Use it to add colors to an otherwise plain looking wall. Perfect complement to a Scandinavian style.
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Polished Brass Brittany Mirror. This mirror is perfect in the bathroom, but can also be used above a dresser, or simply as a wall decor in the living room to add more space and lighting.
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Briela Accent Mirror. Its circular frame is crafted from iron with a brown and gold patina finish for a look similar to the rustic wood. This mirror is easily installed onto any wall with a jute rope hanger, giving your space a nod to a ship or Scandinavian style..
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Blue Skies Painting Print on Wrapped Canvas. Abstract? Maybe. Stylish? Certainly. The colors work together to bring about calmness and tranquility. This wall canvas is a perfect addition to any living space.
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‘Proof of Life’ – Picture Frame Painting Print on Paper. Abstract can be simple too, as demonstrated in this stylish wall art. It is subtle, yet adds a different dimension to a wall quickly.
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2. Greenwich Street Loft Scandinavian Bathroom, New York
Tallega 1-Light Flush Mount. This wall sconce is perfect for lighting up a small room, especially in the bathroom. The frosted glass gives it a modern look that complements the design.
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Inman Accent Mirror. Framed in metal, this hand polished mirror is well designed and has a free floating look thanks to the it being recessed into the frame
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Chapell Hat and Coat Wall Hook. Looks antique and adds a different element to your bathroom wall decor. It keeps your towels and robes organized while adding character to the room!
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3. Bathroom remodel, Scandinavian style, Burbank CA
Hubba Modern & Contemporary Accent Mirror. This elegant mirror is a great piece for any rooms, and in the bathroom, it creates a spacious feeling. The finish is high quality and simple, perfect for your Scandinavian bathroom.
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Rhen Wall Mount Bathroom Faucet. Elegant and classy design that screams luxury! The silhouette is gorgeous, and the functionality top notch!
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DWBA Polished Gold Towel Rail. Complement the gold wall faucet with this handy tower rail. Designed in Germany, it is the perfect addition to your bathroom.
Azriel Rustic Beveled Accent Mirror. Mix up your style with this rustic wall mirror. It is eye catching and works well whether you choose to hang it horizontally or vertically!
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Varga 1-Light Armed Sconce. The unique design of this sconce is sure to get your guests raving about it. Perfect for a cozy corner or the bathroom!
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Scoop Metal Wire Basket. Handy addition to store commonly used items like bath or hand towels, or use it to organize your shower gear!
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Bull Skull Wall Decor. Use this daring hanging wall decor to accentuate any living space. The stunning look is sure to turn some heads and makes a perfect centerpiece!
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Pom Pom at Home Zuma Blanket. Besides the cute name, I think this blanket looks so comfy! It is made of cotton and the woven style is beautiful.
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Charlotte Handmade Shag Gray Area Rug. Don’t worry, no animals were harmed here. The faux rug is super soft and makes you feel like you are standing on clouds!
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Johanne 6 Light Sputnik Chandelier: Going against the usual style of chandeliers, this piece stands out easily and brightens any room effectively. Rods are adjustable so you can design your own unique style.
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Indigo Collide by Vincent Van Gogh. Any piece from the master is sure to bring attention to your wall, and this abstract piece is sure to do the job well.
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Kinetic Grid II. I never get tired of these kind of wall art, especially this kind of contemporary designs. The 3 piece set complements each other well and is suitable for large spaces or even on their own.
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Dmitri Frameless Half Circle Beveled Accent Mirror. This frameless mirror takes an unusual shape, but will fit well around the house, especially above a console or fireplace.
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Norvin Solid Wood Side Chair. The chair that put Demark in the international spotlight. This Hans Wegner design is simple and classy. Great fit for any dining tables.
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Tonia 5-Light Sputnik Modern Linear Chandelier. I love this chandelier! It actually reminds me of plum blossoms! Might be a bit far fetch but they are so beautiful and stands out in any living space.
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Concord Wall Mount Bathroom Faucet. A modern design that is simple and functional, totally in line with a Scandinavian bathroom theme. These are built with high quality and made to last.
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Akerra Polished Edge Frameless Vanity Mirror. Ebern Designs make really sleek and modern home decor items, but this is no exception. The lines are distinct due to the high polish. Standout!
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Mentone 2-Light Vanity Light. The matte black finishing gives it an understated look, but the design itself is pretty unique. Not that easy finding such designs at all!
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How can I decorate my wall in the Scandinavian style?
There are so many options to turn our plain walls into works of art! From wall art and paintings to wall key boxes and racks, the choices are almost infinite!
Here are some tips that follow the Scandinavian design principles:
Paint your walls white. Most Scandinavian homes will have white walls which allow the wall decor to stand out
Provide adequate spacing from one object to the other. One of the key characteristics of Scandinavian wall decor is being clutter-free and having a clean and minimalist look. Be sure not to place your wall decor too close to each other! Keep them at least 5- 6 inches apart.There are exceptions, of course, so exercise your best judgment.
Do not hang too many things on the same wall, which again ties back to the principle of being clutter-free.
Not exactly talking about walls here, but floors are equally important. Pair light wood flooring with carpets or rugs that provides a different tone. Light colors make the room look brighter and cleaner, and is the perfect canvas to throw in your creativity. If wood flooring is not an option, go for laminated flooring that is light in color and in wood prints.
Make sure to provide as much lighting as possible to replicate the bright sunny days in the Scandinavian region. Choose from Scandinavian wall sconces to liven up the room. Scandinavian wall pendants are great options too.
More Scandinavian Wall Decor that will make your friends envy you!
– Scandinavian Wall Art, Paintings and Canvas
Even Flow Painting Print
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Plant Lady Bath I Painting Print
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Neutral Pattern Play I Framed Painting Print
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Glacier Graphic Art on Wrapped Canvas
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Abstract Elegance by Oliver Gal
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Dance of Youth by Pablo Picasso
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Emma Taylor is the Chief Editor at Wallccessories and writes regularly about topics surrounding home decor. Her family has moved several times over the years due to her husband's job requirements, and thanks to that, she has had many opportunities to dabble in designing and decorating real cozy homes.