15 Ideas for Creating a Cozy, Modern Scandinavian Kitchen
The kitchen is the heart of the home–it’s where we cook, eat, and entertain. It’s also a place where we can show off our style. If you’re looking for inspiration for your kitchen, you’ve come to the right place!
Scandinavian kitchen design is all about minimalism, simplicity, and functionality. This design style originated in Sweden and quickly spread to the rest of Scandinavia, Denmark, Finland, and Norway.
The primary focus of Scandinavian kitchen design is to create a functional and aesthetically pleasing space. This design style is perfect for small kitchens as it uses every available inch of space.
Many modern Scandinavian kitchens in America usually have a clean, white interior with a range hood that can be closed if desired. If you’re considering a Scandinavian kitchen for your home, then check out these 15 best modern Scandinavian kitchen design ideas!
1. Stick to a Neutral Color Palette
In Scandinavian kitchen design, one of the most important things to remember is to stick to a neutral color palette. This will help to create an airy and light feel in the kitchen, which is essential in Scandinavian design. White is always a good choice for the walls, but you can also add some light wood tones to add some warmth to the space.
Scandinavia is known for its simplicity, and that extends to its kitchens. A modern Scandinavian kitchen is typically characterized by a neutral color palette, with black, white, and gray being the most popular colors.
2. Embrace Clean Lines and Simple Shapes
Scandinavian kitchens are all about clean lines and simple shapes. Therefore, it’s often been referred to as “the Ikea style” of design. The sleek cabinets and angular island create a modern and sophisticated look, while the use of natural materials keeps the space grounded and approachable.
If you’re looking to give your kitchen a Scandinavian makeover, start by keeping your countertops clear, your cabinets uncluttered, and your walls free of unnecessary embellishments.
3. Let in Plenty of Light
Scandinavian kitchens are known for their light and airy design. An essential element of the design should be to add lots of natural light. This can be done by adding large windows, skylights to the space, and light wood cabinetry.
The result is a bright and cheery space that feels welcoming and warm. This will help to brighten up the space and make it feel more open and airy.
4. Incorporate Organic Materials
Scandinavian kitchens can be beautiful places to cook, eat, and entertain. Using organic materials, such as wood and stone, are key to achieving this aesthetic. You can also incorporate these materials into your cabinetry and countertops for a more natural look.
Using wood and stone in modern Scandinavian kitchens creates a warm and inviting space. Adding in natural elements like plants or greenery can further enhance this feeling.
5. Choose the Right Appliances
One of the defining elements of modern Scandinavian kitchens is the use of white appliances. This helps to create a more open and airy feel in the kitchen.
But that doesn’t mean that you can’t also add pops of color, like with a bright red fridge or blue dishwasher. Anything goes in color, as long as it works with the rest of your kitchen design!
6. Minimalism
Scandinavian design is often associated with minimalism. And while minimalism can sometimes be cold and sterile, in the right hands, it can be warm and inviting. In a Scandinavian kitchen, minimalism is used to create a space that feels open and uncluttered.
This means you want to keep things clean and simple. Choose a limited color palette and use clean lines and simple shapes in your design. The choice of hardware for Scandinavian kitchens allows the other design elements in the room to stand out and creates a sleek, cohesive look.
7. Embrace White Space
One of the most defining characteristics of Scandinavian kitchen design is the extensive use of white space. This blank canvas allows you to make your kitchen your own. So if you’re looking to give your kitchen a Scandinavian makeover, start by opening up the space and painting the walls white.
Some additional ways to use the white space are:
- Add floating shelves around your glass doors to store and display your collectibles.
- Use low-hanging storage containers to maximize wall space and bring in more light.
- Use the blank wall space to display art and decor items that are characteristic of the style.
8. Incorporate Greenery
Nothing says “Scandinavian kitchen” like a healthy dose of greenery. Whether you want a few potted plants on the windowsill or a full-fledged indoor herb garden, adding some greenery to your kitchen is a great way to get that Scandinavian vibe.
Incorporating natural elements like plants into your kitchen is not only a great way to add color, but it also creates a sense of warmth, serenity, and a fresh and uplifting atmosphere.
9. Use Interesting Textures
In modern Scandinavian kitchen design, one of the key elements to focus on is texture. This can be achieved in several ways, such as using different materials for your worktops, cabinets, and splashback.
You could also incorporate interesting textures into your flooring or walls. By doing this, you can add depth and dimension to your kitchen, making it more visually appealing.
10. Go for a Monochrome Look
Another popular trend in modern Scandinavian kitchens is a monochrome color scheme. This can be achieved by using shades of white, black, and grey throughout the kitchen. This type of color scheme is not only stylish but also versatile, as it can be easily changed if you so wish.
While Scandinavian design is often thought of as being clean and minimal, no rule says it can’t be colorful. A monochromatic color scheme is a great way to add some interest to a Scandinavian kitchen.
11. Use Plenty of Wood
Scandinavian kitchens are often built with plenty of wood, and you can create a stunning monochrome look by painting your cabinets, counters, and island white. Then use wood for your floors, backsplash, and accent pieces.
Wood floors are a classic choice for Scandinavian kitchens. They add a warm and natural touch to the space, and they are easy to care for.
12. Incorporate a Pop of Color
While a monochrome color scheme is classic, you can also add a pop of color to your Scandinavian kitchen. A bright red accent piece or some colorful artwork will add just the right amount of personality to the space.
If you’re not sure where to start, try adding a brightly colored rug or a few colorful appliances. You can also do this by painting one of your walls or adding some patterns and artwork.
13. Use Unique Storage Solutions
Sleek and modern, Scandinavian kitchens are all about clean lines and functionality. There are a lot of different ways to store things in a Scandinavian kitchen. You can use floating shelves to store spices or dishes. You can also use magnetic strips to hang pots and pans.
Get creative with your storage solutions, and be creative! But that doesn’t mean they have to be boring! Wall-mounted shelves are a great way to add extra storage without taking up too much room, and they can also be used to display your favorite kitchen items.
14. Consider Scale for Fixtures and Fittings
If you’re planning on incorporating any Scandinavian kitchen design ideas into your own cooking space, one of the first things you’ll need to consider is scale. Depending on the size of your kitchen, you’ll want to make sure that your fixtures and fittings are in proportion.
For example, a small kitchen might look best with small-scale appliances, while a larger kitchen could accommodate larger pieces. Keep in mind that what works in a large, open-plan kitchen may not be as effective in a smaller, more intimate space.
15. Granite Countertops
In modern Scandinavian kitchens, granite countertops are one of the most popular choices. The clean lines, beautiful colors, and durability of granite make it perfect for this design style.
Granite is a beautiful material that can add a touch of luxury to any kitchen. It’s also durable and easy to care for, making it a great choice for busy families.
The Bottom Line
If you’re looking to renovate and refresh your outdated kitchen, then focusing on a minimalist, modern Scandinavian design is a fantastic option. While you can certainly go overboard with this style and create an ultra-modern space that’s little more than a dark box, when done right, the design can be bright, airy, and open. Perfect for cooking!
Remember the key elements of modern Scandinavian kitchen design: white space, greenery, interesting textures, monochrome color schemes with pops of color, and plenty of wood.
Next time you start to plan out your kitchen makeover, keep these ideas in mind! You’ll end up with a stunningly stylish new cooking space that will take your breath away.
