7 Scandi style living room ideas for stunning simplicity
It’s official: our love for Scandinavian design is here to stay.
In our Sofological Studies: The Ultimate Interiors Report, we discovered that Scandi style is the nation’s favourite interior trend. More than one in five Brits named the clean lines, cosy textures, and effortless elegance of this trend as their number one interior aesthetic.
But we know you’re not looking to just dip in a toe; you’re here to find out how to go all-in on a Scandinavian living room. That’s why we’re sharing seven ways to bring that vision to life, helping you completely transform your living space.
What does ‘Scandi style’ actually mean?
You’re likely already familiar with the core ideas of a Scandinavian living room, but it’s always worth coming back to its heart.
After all, this trend is about so much more than just how a room looks; it’s about how it feels. For example, you want your living room to look uncluttered without feeling empty, minimalist without feeling cold. So much of Scandi style lies in finding this balance, achieving cosy contentment and stunning design in equal measure.
Essentially, you want to feel comfortable and at home in your Scandi living room, but it also shouldn’t look out of place on a Pinterest board.
7 ways to create a stunning Scandi style living room
1. Start with a neutral colour scheme to set the foundation
A neutral colour scheme provides the canvas that will bring the rest of your Scandi living room to life.
It’s not just about opting for a pristine white – which can sometimes feel almost clinical – and calling it a day. Instead, think about how you layer different tones and shades to create depth and warmth. We’re talking about the likes of soft greys, warm beiges, and muted stone colours, the hues that maximise natural light and help your Scandinavian living room feel serene and spacious.
Our expert tip: Use the same colours on your skirting boards and window frames as you would on the walls. This creates a seamless, cohesive look that blurs the boundaries of the room, making the space feel larger and more tranquil.
2. Accent with soft pastel shades that subtly add colour
To prevent a neutral space from feeling too understated, introduce subtle accents of colour – and a warm Scandinavian living room often features soft, muted pastels that echo the natural world.
Think dusty pinks, sage greens, and pale blues. These gentle shades add personality and a touch of playfulness without overwhelming the calm aesthetic. You can introduce these accents with scatter cushions, footstools, or even a well-placed armchair.
Our expert tip: Don’t go overboard with the pastel colours. Choose one or two shades and weave them through the room in varying textures. For example, a sage green velvet cushion paired with a linen throw in a similar shade adds a layer of sophisticated, tonal interest.
3. Opt for an open plan layout to create that sense of space
A sense of flow is essential in a Scandi living room, but that doesn't mean you need to start knocking down walls. It’s more about letting your furniture breathe.
So, instead of pushing all your furniture against the walls, try pulling your sofa and armchairs into more intimate, conversational ‘zones’. This simple tweak instantly makes a room feel more welcoming and allows natural light to move freely, opening up the space.
Our expert tip: Use a large, low-pile rug to anchor your main seating area. This helps to define the space and create a focal point, making the layout feel considered while pulling the whole look together.
4. Choose a sofa that blends simplicity with softness
The perfect Scandi sofa has to master that balancing act between stunning simplicity and cosy comfort.
On one hand, its silhouette should be sleek: think clean lines, uncluttered frames, and elegant, tapered legs that give it a wonderfully light feel. But on the other hand, it has to be somewhere you genuinely want to unwind. That’s where comfort takes centre stage, with soft, subtle curves and deep, inviting cushions you can truly sink into, such as with our corner sofas or curved sofas.
Our expert tip: A chenille sofa will instantly enhance the warm, inviting feel that you’re looking for with your Scandi living room.
5. Embrace natural materials to bring warmth
You can really bring your Scandi style to life with natural materials that make a space feel real and lived-in.
Of course, light-toned woods like oak and ash are the foundation, but the real magic happens when you mix them with other elements. Think about the contrast of a smooth leather armchair, a cool stone coaster, or a hint of woven rattan. It’s this mix that creates a rich, layered space that feels both warm and authentically outdoorsy.
Our expert tip: Don’t be afraid to mix different wood tones. As long as they share a similar undertone (either warm or cool), combining light oak with a darker walnut accent can add depth and character to your Scandinavian living room.
6. Mix in soft and cosy textures that make you feel at home
If clean lines provide the structure, then texture is what gives a Scandi living room its heart. This is where you can really lean into that cosy ‘hygge’ feeling, making the space feel wonderfully inviting.
It’s all about layering different soft, tactile materials that make you want to curl up and stay a while. Imagine a chunky woollen throw casually draped over the arm of your sofa, a few plush boucle cushions to sink into, and soft linen curtains that make the daylight feel gentle and warm.
Our expert tip: Create a dedicated reading nook in a corner of your room. A comfortable armchair, a soft rug underfoot, a cosy blanket, and a warm reading light combine for the perfect spot to unwind.
7. Add plants and greenery to bring the space to life
A Scandinavian living room isn't truly complete until you've brought a little bit of the outdoors in. It’s that final touch that breathes life and energy into a calm space.
While a small succulent is lovely, don't be afraid to think bigger. A tall, architectural Fiddle Leaf Fig or a sprawling Monstera can act as a living sculpture, creating a stunning natural focal point. It’s not just about lush greenery, either; a simple glass vase filled with dried flowers, wispy pampas grass, or even a few sculptural branches can add a touch of wild, effortless beauty.
Our expert tip: Group several plants of varying heights and leaf shapes together in a corner to create a lush, indoor garden effect.
Ready to create your own peaceful, Scandi-inspired retreat? A beautifully crafted sofa with clean lines and a timeless feel is the perfect place to start. Explore our sofa collection to find the ideal centrepiece for your Scandi living room and start creating a space you truly love to live in