Scandinavian architecture. Architectural features of houses in the Scandinavian style Design and layout features
Each nation has its own idea of the architecture of a residential building and the design of premises. This is connected both with national traditions and with the natural features of a particular region. Scandinavia, this land of harsh and beautiful nature in the north of Europe, is no exception. And although in each individual country one can find its own characteristics common to all Scandinavian cultures, the principles of construction, organization of space and interior decoration of the building will unmistakably indicate its stylistic affiliation.
Norway, Sweden, Denmark and Finland - all these Nordic countries share a common architectural tradition. This is partly due to the fact that their historical development was similar - they did not experience the influence of the powerful Roman Empire, remaining pagan for a relatively long time. Actually, it was the pagan heritage that became one of the main themes of the beautiful architecture of the northern modern, the most interesting examples of which can be seen in Finland. In addition, the formation of the Scandinavian style in architecture and interior was facilitated by common features of geography: a broken coastline, many fjords, a cold and harsh climate, a large number of mountains and lakes, and huge forests. It is the abundance of forests that determines the popularity of wood in Scandinavia - wooden architecture has been the main type of construction here since ancient times.
Traditional Scandinavian design is associated with simplicity, rationality and democracy. It is characterized by natural materials, concise forms, environmental friendliness and quality. One of the characteristic elements of the decor is the natural texture of wood, which can be preserved by a special processing technology.
architectural features
What is the Scandinavian style in architecture? The best way to see it, or rather, to feel it, is to visit the world-famous library built by Alvar Aalto in the 30s of the last century in Vyborg. Simple and modest forms may seem rude and even plain to a person who is not interested in architecture, but at the same time every little thing is thought out. This is especially felt inside the library. Top diffused light, in which no shadows and glare will interfere with reading; heating pipes are hidden in the walls, thanks to which the room warms up evenly and is protected from drafts. And finally, a lecture hall with a wave-shaped wooden ceiling for better acoustics. It is separated from the park by a glass wall, through which a breathtaking view of centuries-old trees opens up. Actually, there are all the signs of a typical Scandinavian house here - both the simplicity of forms, and soft colors, in harmony with northern nature, and huge windows with a view conducive to meditative contemplation.
Of course, the origins of Scandinavian architecture do not date back to the 1930s. The traditional house in the Nordic countries was built of wood. At first it was a bare frame made of logs, then they began to sheathe it with boards. Houses, sheathed with wooden siding or clapboard and painted dark red with white sashes and window frames, are built to this day. This "two-layer" wall construction provides excellent protection against precipitation and piercing wind.
When in our time they talk about the Scandinavian style in architecture and interior decoration of the house, they mean, first of all, Sweden and Finland. It is to these countries that we owe the characteristic features of modern interiors, where light wood is adjacent to glass, ceramics, metal, and the lines are clear and simple, but in this simplicity lies an attractive and discreet beauty. The Scandinavian style in architecture is not positioned as the result of high technology or artistic and decorative innovations. This is a very calm, devoid of unnecessary pathos, modest and comfortable, but at the same time an extremely elegant option.
scandinavian dwelling
A modern Scandinavian residential building is a building built taking into account the terrain and the surrounding landscape. When building a house, they try to disturb the earth as little as possible and, if possible, preserve most of the vegetation. Of course, if it is not a plot of virgin forest, but a field overgrown with weeds that is being built, then they will not particularly stand on ceremony with the flora. But if the natural landscape in the construction zone has sufficient color, then all its elements, whether granite boulders or lichens covering the ground, will be preserved, and the issue of new plantings will be approached very carefully and will make sure that they fit organically into the natural environment. And for no reason the Scandinavians will break the lawn in place of the luxurious vegetation of the pine forest, as they like to do with us.
The house itself is distinguished by simple forms, minimal decor, but at the same time - exceptionally high quality workmanship of all the details of the building. And, of course, the unique Scandinavian design. The height of the building rarely exceeds two floors. Colors, as a rule, are discreet - beige, brownish, lilac. Scandinavian builders try to preserve the natural texture of wood, which is only emphasized by a colorless coating or tinting. But individual details are allowed to be brightly colored, such as ridges and roof supports or gables. Although the Norwegians, for example, prefer to paint their houses in bright colors in order to somehow withstand the gloomy and gray northern winter. The neighbors decided not to lag behind, so brightly colored buildings have been appearing more and more often in other Scandinavian countries lately.
Almost certainly in a Scandinavian house there will be many panoramic windows through which it is so good to enjoy the surrounding landscape. But this does not in the least contribute to heat loss, since double-glazed windows provide sufficient thermal insulation. When constructing a building, preference is given to natural materials, primarily calibrated or glued beams. Frame structures are no less popular, especially in the construction of inexpensive houses. All materials undergo the most severe selection and strict environmental examination, so they are absolutely safe for health. The roof is covered with tiles, metal - painted or "natural" (copper is especially loved), or various polymeric materials. It can be either pitched or even. It depends on the architecture of the house, but pitched is much more common. It is very difficult to remove snow from a flat roof, especially in spring, and with a pitched roof, this issue can be left, literally, to chance.
Of course, residential buildings are built not only from wood and building materials made from it. There are many brick and reinforced concrete buildings. But the Scandinavians still love wood the most. Moreover, modern processing technologies make it possible to give it previously unattainable qualities - durability and ease of use.
Work for the public is alien to our northern neighbors, so the house is built and furnished in such a way that the owners would be pleased and comfortable to live in it. Provocative luxury is also not encouraged by strict Protestant traditions, so the Scandinavians simply will not understand people who thus show their superiority over others.
Interior Design
Typically Scandinavian interiors are distinguished by several characteristic features. First of all, it is a modest, soft and elegant beauty. The second feature is the light-coloured or wood-paneled walls; discreet wallpaper for painting is often used.
In a Swedish or Finnish house, it is extremely difficult to find a suspended or stretch ceiling in a rich color or complex design. However, like any non-traditional ceiling in general. But if it is possible to build a pitched ceiling in the attic, they will definitely do it, because it will give the room individuality. In addition, the room will become more spacious, and the space will be used more rationally. The floor of light boards, covered with transparent varnish, can add lightness to the interior of even a small room.
Decorating a bathroom or kitchen, the Swedes and Danes show amazing originality. Both small details and the main elements of decoration can enliven the style of the room. For example, walls pasted over with waterproof wallpaper of a hot fiery color and a structure resembling a thin chip. Such an unusual shade for a bathroom should perfectly invigorate on a dark winter morning. And in the kitchen you can meet a lot of pleasant and funny little things.
The textiles used in the interior are distinguished by the harmony of colors and patterns. Soft colors and calm combinations are preferred. So beloved by the Scandinavians, the elegant cream-olive stripe on the furniture covers is wonderfully combined with the beige shade of natural wood, from which low and wide coffee tables are made. Huge windows are usually lightly covered with light curtains. Heavy curtains are not popular here - after all, most of the year there is not enough light, and during the short summer you don’t want to hide from it at all.
Straight lines and rectangular shapes of cabinet furniture made of wood and veneered chipboard are dictated by the basic concept of the Scandinavian style in interior design.
A variety of walls, cabinets, shelves, cabinets, tables, hallways are very functional, have modular systems, and due to light colors they visually lighten the interior, filling it with a harmonious play of lines. Upholstered furniture has straight and simple symmetrical shapes. The upholstery is made of both durable natural fabrics and leather and suede.
Typically, designers prefer to hide the frame bases with upholstery, which gives upholstered furniture a complete look and ensures a harmonious combination with cabinet furniture.
The works of Scandinavian designers are distinguished, in addition to respect for national traditions, by love for natural materials - and not only for wood. Metal, leather, natural textiles (linen and wool), as well as ceramics are materials that Swedish, Finnish or Danish interiors cannot do without. Furniture and accessories created by designers from the Nordic countries are distinguished not only by environmental friendliness, but also by a unique combination of aesthetics and functionality.
Everything has been thought of in home furnishings to ensure maximum comfort - from durable fastening of parts, reliable transformation mechanisms that provide compact storage or new functionality of furniture, to beautiful and durable fittings. What's more, Scandinavian-branded interior items are almost universal and fit in with most contemporary styles. They are practical, comfortable and do not go out of fashion for years precisely because they have an optimal design and shape. Along with the creation of new models, enterprises again and again reproduce products that are loved by customers, only slightly updating it in the spirit of the times.
Scandinavian architecture is surprisingly organic, solid and in perfect harmony with the surrounding universe. Perhaps it is in this unhurried and contemplative approach to life, which begins at home, that the secret of the centuries-old well-being of the descendants of the Vikings lies.
Victor Beskrovny
"Landowner of the Northwest",
No. 4(22), 2007
Norway, Sweden, Denmark and Finland - all these Nordic countries share a common architectural tradition. This is partly due to the fact that their historical development was similar - they did not experience the influence of the powerful Roman Empire, remaining pagan for a relatively long time. Actually, it was the pagan heritage that became one of the main themes of the beautiful architecture of the northern modern, the most interesting examples of which can be seen in Finland. In addition, the formation of the Scandinavian style in architecture and interior was facilitated by common features of geography: a broken coastline, many fjords, a cold and harsh climate, a large number of mountains and lakes, and huge forests. It is the abundance of forests that determines the popularity of wood in Scandinavia - wooden architecture has been the main type of construction here since ancient times.
Traditional Scandinavian design is associated with simplicity, rationality and democracy. It is characterized by natural materials, concise forms, environmental friendliness and quality. One of the characteristic elements of the decor is the natural texture of wood, which can be preserved by a special processing technology.
architectural features
What is the Scandinavian style in architecture? The best way to see it, or rather, to feel it, is to visit the world-famous library built by Alvar Aalto in the 30s of the last century in Vyborg. Simple and modest forms may seem rude and even plain to a person who is not interested in architecture, but at the same time every little thing is thought out. This is especially felt inside the library. Top diffused light, in which no shadows and glare will interfere with reading; heating pipes are hidden in the walls, thanks to which the room warms up evenly and is protected from drafts. And finally, a lecture hall with a wave-shaped wooden ceiling for better acoustics. It is separated from the park by a glass wall, through which a breathtaking view of centuries-old trees opens up. Actually, there are all the signs of a typical Scandinavian house here - both the simplicity of forms, and soft colors, in harmony with northern nature, and huge windows with a view conducive to meditative contemplation.
Of course, the origins of Scandinavian architecture do not date back to the 1930s. The traditional house in the Nordic countries was built of wood. At first it was a bare frame made of logs, then they began to sheathe it with boards. Houses, sheathed with wooden siding or clapboard and painted dark red with white sashes and window frames, are built to this day. This "two-layer" wall construction provides excellent protection against precipitation and piercing wind.
When in our time they talk about the Scandinavian style in architecture and interior decoration of the house, they mean, first of all, Sweden and Finland. It is to these countries that we owe the characteristic features of modern interiors, where light wood is adjacent to glass, ceramics, metal, and the lines are clear and simple, but in this simplicity lies an attractive and discreet beauty. The Scandinavian style in architecture is not positioned as the result of high technology or artistic and decorative innovations. This is a very calm, devoid of unnecessary pathos, modest and comfortable, but at the same time an extremely elegant option.
Hidden text
scandinavian dwelling
A modern Scandinavian residential building is a building built taking into account the terrain and the surrounding landscape. When building a house, they try to disturb the earth as little as possible and, if possible, preserve most of the vegetation. Of course, if it is not a plot of virgin forest, but a field overgrown with weeds that is being built, then they will not particularly stand on ceremony with the flora. But if the natural landscape in the construction zone has sufficient color, then all its elements, whether granite boulders or lichens covering the ground, will be preserved, and the issue of new plantings will be approached very carefully and will make sure that they fit organically into the natural environment. And for no reason the Scandinavians will break the lawn in place of the luxurious vegetation of the pine forest, as they like to do with us.
The house itself is distinguished by simple forms, minimal decor, but at the same time - exceptionally high quality workmanship of all the details of the building. And, of course, the unique Scandinavian design. The height of the building rarely exceeds two floors. Colors, as a rule, are discreet - beige, brownish, lilac. Scandinavian builders try to preserve the natural texture of wood, which is only emphasized by a colorless coating or tinting. But individual details are allowed to be brightly colored, such as ridges and roof supports or gables. Although the Norwegians, for example, prefer to paint their houses in bright colors in order to somehow withstand the gloomy and gray northern winter. The neighbors decided not to lag behind, so brightly colored buildings have been appearing more and more often in other Scandinavian countries lately.
Almost certainly in a Scandinavian house there will be many panoramic windows through which it is so good to enjoy the surrounding landscape. But this does not in the least contribute to heat loss, since double-glazed windows provide sufficient thermal insulation. When constructing a building, preference is given to natural materials, primarily calibrated or glued beams. Frame structures are no less popular, especially in the construction of inexpensive houses. All materials undergo the most severe selection and strict environmental examination, so they are absolutely safe for health. The roof is covered with tiles, metal - painted or "natural" (copper is especially loved), or various polymeric materials. It can be either pitched or even. It depends on the architecture of the house, but pitched is much more common. It is very difficult to remove snow from a flat roof, especially in spring, and with a pitched roof, this issue can be left, literally, to chance.
Of course, residential buildings are built not only from wood and building materials made from it. There are many brick and reinforced concrete buildings. But the Scandinavians still love wood the most. Moreover, modern processing technologies make it possible to give it previously unattainable qualities - durability and ease of use.
Work for the public is alien to our northern neighbors, so the house is built and furnished in such a way that the owners would be pleased and comfortable to live in it. Provocative luxury is also not encouraged by strict Protestant traditions, so the Scandinavians simply will not understand people who thus show their superiority over others.
Interior Design
Typically Scandinavian interiors are distinguished by several characteristic features. First of all, it is a modest, soft and elegant beauty. The second feature is the light-coloured or wood-paneled walls; discreet wallpaper for painting is often used.
In a Swedish or Finnish house, it is extremely difficult to find a suspended or stretch ceiling in a rich color or complex design. However, like any non-traditional ceiling in general. But if it is possible to build a pitched ceiling in the attic, they will definitely do it, because it will give the room individuality. In addition, the room will become more spacious, and the space will be used more rationally. The floor of light boards, covered with transparent varnish, can add lightness to the interior of even a small room.
Decorating a bathroom or kitchen, the Swedes and Danes show amazing originality. Both small details and the main elements of decoration can enliven the style of the room. For example, walls pasted over with waterproof wallpaper of a hot fiery color and a structure resembling a thin chip. Such an unusual shade for a bathroom should perfectly invigorate on a dark winter morning. And in the kitchen you can meet a lot of pleasant and funny little things.
The textiles used in the interior are distinguished by the harmony of colors and patterns. Soft colors and calm combinations are preferred. So beloved by the Scandinavians, the elegant cream-olive stripe on the furniture covers is wonderfully combined with the beige shade of natural wood, from which low and wide coffee tables are made. Huge windows are usually lightly covered with light curtains. Heavy curtains are not popular here - after all, most of the year there is not enough light, and during the short summer you don’t want to hide from it at all.
Straight lines and rectangular shapes of cabinet furniture made of wood and veneered chipboard are dictated by the basic concept of the Scandinavian style in interior design.
A variety of walls, cabinets, shelves, cabinets, tables, hallways are very functional, have modular systems, and due to light colors they visually lighten the interior, filling it with a harmonious play of lines. Upholstered furniture has straight and simple symmetrical shapes. The upholstery is made of both durable natural fabrics and leather and suede.
Typically, designers prefer to hide the frame bases with upholstery, which gives upholstered furniture a complete look and ensures a harmonious combination with cabinet furniture.
The works of Scandinavian designers are distinguished, in addition to respect for national traditions, by love for natural materials - and not only for wood. Metal, leather, natural textiles (linen and wool), as well as ceramics are materials that Swedish, Finnish or Danish interiors cannot do without. Furniture and accessories created by designers from the Nordic countries are distinguished not only by environmental friendliness, but also by a unique combination of aesthetics and functionality.
Everything has been thought of in home furnishings to ensure maximum comfort - from durable fastening of parts, reliable transformation mechanisms that provide compact storage or new functionality of furniture, to beautiful and durable fittings. What's more, Scandinavian-branded interior items are almost universal and fit in with most contemporary styles. They are practical, comfortable and do not go out of fashion for years precisely because they have an optimal design and shape. Along with the creation of new models, enterprises again and again reproduce products that are loved by customers, only slightly updating it in the spirit of the times.
Scandinavian architecture is surprisingly organic, solid and in perfect harmony with the surrounding universe. Perhaps it is in this unhurried and contemplative approach to life, which begins at home, that the secret of the centuries-old well-being of the descendants of the Vikings lies.
From ethnic style to global brand
The history of the Scandinavian style began in Sweden, in the 18th century, during the reign of King Gustav III. Before this period, Scandinavians copied Italian, French and English. Empire was also popular, with some reliance on local traditions. Gustav III abandoned pathos and luxury, creating a special northern style, simple and homely. The main value of the interior was the abundance of light and objects that reflect light. The curved legs of the chairs become straight, narrowed towards the bottom, the backs become round. Gilding is increasingly giving way to light, beige, gray or blue colors. This was due to long dark winters lasting more than half a year. The Swedish style was formed not in the capital, but in the provinces. So, one of the main items of the Gustavian style - a tall grandfather clock in a painted wooden case - appeared in the village of Mora. "Gustavian style" remained popular almost until the beginning of the 20th century.
Olga Kruglova
Designer
“There are two directions in the Scandinavian style. The traditional Scandinavian style is based on the interiors of three hundred years ago, strict, but speaking of the prosperity of its owners. Modern style brings elegance, softness and functionality. There are no heavy furniture or huge mirrors in a gilded frame.”
At the end of the 19th century, with the development of industry and the advent of new materials, the creation of simple but beautiful interiors became available to everyone. In 1930, an international exhibition was held in Stockholm, which presented the Scandinavian style, combining functionality and attractiveness. However, the very definition of "Scandinavian style" appeared in the 1950s, after exhibitions in the United States and Canada. After the Second World War, craft traditions were preserved in the furniture culture of Denmark, Finland and Sweden for a long time. Scandinavian craftsmen came up with new methods of working with plywood. Thus, Denmark became the world's main supplier of teak wood, from which it was possible to make almost any furniture. There were standard Scandinavian beds, tables, cabinets, which are produced today by the world-famous Swedish brand. Scandinavian masters Stig Lindberg, Timo Sarpaneva, Tapio Wirkkala were the first stars of European design. Classics of Scandinavian design include Henning Koppel's silver fish fork, Tapio Wirkkala's plywood sheet, Finaa Douglas's Chief chair or Cao Frank's Kilta service, created in the 1950s.
Scandinavian style is restrained and respectful of nature. Designers and architects working in this direction prefer light wood, metal, natural stone, linen, leather, fur or cotton. The interior is created in monochrome, light shades using bright color spots. The Scandinavian interior is based on the play of chiaroscuro, and therefore there should be a lot of glass in the room: transparent, frosted or scattering and refracting light rays.
Architectural Features
The architecture in the Scandinavian style has its own characteristics. For example, the building should be built from natural wood. Previously, during construction, a log house was necessarily used. Today it is possible to simply sheathe the walls with boards. And these boards have a light color and soft shades that will be in harmony with. Nature in general is of great importance in the Scandinavian style, and therefore it is not customary to disturb the surrounding landscape when building a house. With its features and color scheme, the building should fit into the landscape of the area. The house is usually not fenced. In rare cases, it is surrounded by a low picket fence.
The layout of the house is thought out to the smallest detail so that it is as comfortable as possible for living. There are no wide corridors and a huge hall, but there is an abundance of utility rooms. Finnish or Norwegian houses do not have a basement. The room is often heated by pipes built into the walls. In the decoration of the facade, a play of contrasts is usually used. For example, the walls are made of light wood, and the window frames are dark, or vice versa. In recent years, it has become a fashion trend to paint the raw board in beige, red, brown, terracotta, white or gray. An obligatory element of the Scandinavian house is high windows. Often the openings go to two floors at once. In northern European dwellings, houses traditionally have gable roofs of great steepness. On the one hand, this allows you to unload the roof from snow loads, on the other hand, the attic remains quite livable. Here you can equip a bedroom or an office. The porch is another essential part of a Scandinavian style home. A terrace can be attached to the porch, which is also not fenced in any way.
scandinavian interior
Scandinavian style design can be applied in a city apartment. A typical interior should be done in light colors, have functional furniture and modest decor. Another important point is the abundance of various lamps. It can be chandeliers, sconces, table or floor. Such a light, clean style is not suitable for those who like bright colors or extravagant decor.
Sergey Uglov
Interior designer
“It is important that the walls are even and plastered. Most often, the walls are painted white. Modern Scandinavian style mixed with industrial allows wall decoration with exposed brickwork. But wallpapers are rarely used, as they are considered impractical. The ceiling can also be white. If space allows, then the use of beams is appropriate as a decorative element. On the floor, it is better to use coatings in light colors. The shade of aged white wood is very popular.”
The white color of the walls and ceiling is a visiting card of the Scandinavian style. This solution has many advantages. Firstly, the white color visually expands the space and, as it were, fills it with light and air. Secondly, any furniture, decor elements and even indoor plants will look good on a white background. The combination of white and black colors can serve as the basis for the entire interior. However, do not forget about bright color accents. Without them, the room will look sterile and uncomfortable.
Well, if it is possible to make an open plan in an apartment or house. The easiest option is to combine the kitchen and living room. There should not be a lot of furniture in the apartment; the Scandinavian style does not allow any frills. Furniture, often also in light colors, can be wooden. The main feature is the presence of a huge number of modules. An important role in the Scandinavian style is given to textiles. There are no ruffles or flounces here, natural fabrics are used. Knitted fabric is often used. To remind that the Scandinavian style was originally ethnic, bedspreads, blankets or capes with the image of animals, snowflakes or waves on the sea surface can. An interesting option is to use knitted scarves or shawls as a bedspread. Small pillows on a sofa or armchair will help to revive the monochrome interior. Today in fashion with a simple geometric pattern or bright coloring. It is good if decorative objects are also made of natural materials: wood, metal, clay. White ceramics and glass are especially popular. The Scandinavians lived on the coast. They were fishermen, sailors and shipbuilders. Therefore, bringing in will look organically in an apartment made in the Scandinavian style. An excellent option is stones turned by water, ship models or a fishing net.
Speaking of Scandinavian style, one cannot fail to mention the Hugge style. This is not even a style, but the philosophy of life of the Danes. The word "hugge" cannot be translated into another language. This is a cozy, friendly atmosphere, where there is nothing that can emotionally suppress or irritate. The house should be an oasis of peace, a place of rest and meetings with loved ones. The interior in the hugge style is dominated by muted colors: beige, gray, brown. Floors, doors, furniture - everything is made from natural materials. Materials and textures should be pleasant to the touch and easy to clean. The Danish-style house is filled with warm soft light, lit by lamps in the form of garlands or lanterns. The hugge philosophy is a comfortable sofa, a soft blanket, a favorite book and a cup of hot tea. It is probably not for nothing that the Danes are considered one of the happiest nations in the world.
Scandinavian Design Stars
History and rules of Scandinavian architecture and design
History and rules of Scandinavian architecture and design
History and rules of Scandinavian architecture and design
Photos from sites: nord59.net, admagazine.ru, oooarsenal.ru, finnishdesignshop.com
It is difficult to find a person in the modern world who has not heard about or about furniture from IKEA. But how many people know the names of Scandinavian designers? Alvar Aalto is considered one of the most famous Finnish architects and designers. His ideas have had a definite impact on world architecture, and his furniture company Artek has created a modern housing culture. The three-legged stacking stool Stool 60 or the armchair 402, the Savoy vase are some of his most famous inventions. The vase was designed by Aalto and his wife for a glass design competition. Its outlines are associated with the curves of the coastline or the sea wave. Until now, vases are made by hand. Interestingly, it takes 12 craftsmen and 30 hours of work to create one vase. Eero Aarrnio, who worked with glass and plastic back in 1963, created the Ball chair, which is still at the top of designer furniture today. The water-floating Pastil and Tomato chairs have also become iconic.
Poul Henningsen gave the world the PH series lamps, the Artichoke chandelier and the Snow Globe pendant lamp, which are still very popular today. By the way, they were created in the 20s of the XX century, when the electric light bulb was still considered a technical novelty. Joseph Frank is recognized as the king of Scandinavian textiles. His products still adorn many houses and hotels. Kaare Klint is considered to be the father of modern Danish furniture design. His main invention is the Safari chair. Hans Wagner is a Danish architect, creator of the iconic clam chair and many other chair options. In 1950, Interior magazine in America featured a picture of the Round chair on the cover, calling it the most beautiful chair in the world. These are the chairs that were in the studio at the first debate between Kennedy and Nixon. Today, the furniture created by Wagner is one of the most sought after at expensive auctions.
Interestingly, the well-known brand IKEA comes up with names for its products based on Scandinavian languages and culture. So, the name of sofas, coffee tables and storage units are the toponyms of Sweden. The Bedinge sofa is the name of a city in the southwest of Sweden, and the Hemnes bed is a town in northern Norway. The small town in Denmark corresponds to the "Vemb" carpet. But the names of bookcases are nothing more than the names of professions in Swedish. And bathroom accessories are ... Swedish lakes and rivers.
The strict and practical Scandinavian style in architecture was formed under the influence of national traditions, climatic features and the predominance of natural materials.
The absolute highlight of the northern regions is the cold beauty of nature with its mirror lakes, rocky mountains and green forests. Scandinavian dwellings, built from natural materials, perfectly convey this spirit.
Features of Scandinavian architecture
The main features inherent in this style are strict rationality, color harmony and priority in the use of natural materials.
Log cabin in scandinavian style
A typical Scandinavian-style house is a low wooden frame with regular geometry and discreet design. Particular attention during construction is paid to the high quality of all materials and elements. It is believed that this technology was borrowed by the Varangians-mercenaries from ancient Russian architects. Later, in the 13th century, Norway developed its own method of building log cabins, the secrets of which have come down to our times.
Wall construction
Scandinavian style is associated with natural naturalness. It is not surprising that the predominant building material in this direction is a log (beam). Also, frame technology is in great demand.
Frame house in scandinavian style
It is customary to treat wooden surfaces with coatings that emphasize the original beauty of the material. Untreated boards, darkened from time to time, are also common in design. The main colors of the facades are brown, beige, sand, black.
Playing with contrast and painting individual elements in bright colors, the house stands out and compensates for the inherent minimalism in the decor.
Contrast of colors in the facade decoration
It is worth noting that modern Scandinavian houses are also built of brick and concrete. But they are not faceless. A competent combination of colors, textures and the predominance of wood in the decor of concrete structures harmoniously fits into the concept of natural tranquility of the style.
Scandinavian style windows
The lack of daylight among the peoples of the north played an important role in shaping the concept of windows. Panoramic glazing is common in Scandinavian architecture. Large windows allow you to get aesthetic pleasure and brightly emphasize the individuality of the house. You can glaze both entire walls, gables, and install roof windows.
Scandinavian glazing
However, this technique became available only with the advent of high-tech window structures. A large glass area should not lead to heat loss. Therefore, in addition to good windows, in such houses, special attention is paid to the thermal insulation of walls and other building envelopes.
Roof device
The roof of Scandinavian houses is often gable. Possible flat options or designs with small hip slopes on the gables. This is in line with the core concept of simplicity and functionality.
green roof
For covering, tiles or metal profiles are used. It is worth highlighting, which is not suitable for every project.
Porch, terrace
Mandatory elements of houses of this style are a porch and a terrace. Often they can be combined or located on different sides. It all depends on the specific idea. Usually, such structures are made spacious, which allows you to place a full-fledged recreation area.
Terraces often have simple forms. They are extremely open and have minimal decor in design. A popular finishing material is wood.
Terrace in Scandinavian style
Having studied the features of the architecture of Scandinavian houses, we highlight the main advantages of the style:
- Practicality, conciseness and original design without frills.
- The use of large windows is not only beautiful, but functional.
- The simple design of walls and roofs reduces material costs and simplifies assembly work.
The majestic beauty of the northern nature with the mirror surfaces of lakes, rocky slopes, evergreen forests, as well as the harsh climate that makes you live in constant readiness to fight the elements, largely determined the nature of the Scandinavian architectural trend.
Restrained and practical, but at the same time impeccably elegant, originating on the territory of present-day Sweden, Denmark, Norway and Finland, this style is very original, because in its development it managed to avoid the influence of antiquity.
Scandinavian style in architecture: conceptual features
The Scandinavian style in architecture is far from high technology and artistic and decorative innovations. This is rather a modest, devoid of meaningless pathos, rather restrained, but at the same time, a very elegant and cozy home design option.
Absolute rationality, color harmony, impeccable quality and naturalness of materials - these are the main features inherent in the Scandinavian architectural style.
Other features of this area include:
- conciseness, straight and clear lines of buildings;
- panoramic glazing;
- minimum decorative finishes;
- the predominance of wooden elements.
The height of the house in the Scandinavian style is small, as a rule, it is one or two floors. The entire layout is thought out to the smallest detail, which makes the home as cozy and comfortable as possible.
Reasons for the style's popularity
Scandinavian style houses are popular in many European countries. The reasons for this demand lie in a number of positive characteristics of such houses:
- harmonious combination of aesthetics and functionality;
- solidity and durability of buildings;
- naturalness and environmental friendliness of materials;
- simplicity and speed of construction;
- the relevance of the style, the possibility of placing buildings both within the city and beyond.
Scandinavian style house: wall design and decoration
Traditionally, the main building material for the construction of houses in the Scandinavian countries was and remains wood, or rather, calibrated or glued beams.
The natural beauty of wood is not hidden behind a layer of paint, but, on the contrary, they try to emphasize it by treating the walls only with a transparent or tinted protective coating. At the same time, preference is given to natural natural shades: beige, brown, gray-green, earthy black.
In the design of the facade in Scandinavian style, practical minimalism is taken as the basis. To set color accents and give the home an elegant decorative effect, some elements, such as architraves, ridges, beams and roof supports, are painted in more saturated, and sometimes in bright, contrasting colors.
In the modern version, the Scandinavian style is more concise.
For construction, not only wood is now used, but also brick and concrete structures. The walls are often covered with light-colored plaster, sheathed with wooden clapboard, panels or facade boards.
The carefully thought-out combination of textures and shades, as well as the predominance of natural wood in the decorative design, save these houses from depersonalization without violating the concepts of style.
The roof of the house in the Scandinavian style
The roof in Scandinavian buildings always meets the requirements of simplicity and functionality. The traditional option is a single-slope or dual-slope design, which avoids excessive snow load.
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Traditionally, shingles are used as roofing material. However, in recent years, its polymeric counterparts have also proven themselves well.
For buildings in the Scandinavian style, the color of the roof plays an important role. The harsh northern climate involves the use of roofing materials in dark shades, mostly gray or deep brown, which accelerates the melting of snow, naturally freeing the roof from excess load.
One of the stylish design options for Scandinavian homes is extensive roof gardening. In this case, instead of traditional materials, the entire surface of the roof is filled with live lawn grasses.
Window
The windows in a Scandinavian house are always large. They can capture two floors at once. Sometimes even the whole wall is made with panoramic glazing. Thanks to this technique, the eternal problem of lack of lighting is solved, and it becomes possible to constantly enjoy the surrounding landscapes. And given the high quality of the double-glazed windows used, heat loss through window openings will be minimal.
Frames, in addition to their direct purpose, being also an integral part of the facade decor, look massive and solid. Depending on the exterior of the building, they imitate dark or light wood in color.
doors
There are several options for decorating entrance doors in Scandinavian buildings.
Fans of modern solutions and free space will appreciate panoramic doors that practically do not stand out against the general background of glazing, repeating the style of windows, their shape and color.
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Supporters of more conservative views should pay attention to metal insulated doors, sheathed with wood, in accordance with the color scheme of the facade.
And, finally, the third, universal option, combining the two previous ones - solid wooden doors with stylish glass inserts.
Porch and terrace
An integral part of the Scandinavian house - the porch, as a rule, is quite high. It is located at the main entrance and, taking into account the climatic features of the northern nature, it has an exclusively practical purpose - maintaining cleanliness inside the home.
If there is an opportunity to increase the usable area, why not use it?!
— To this end, prudent Scandinavians always complement their building projects with terraces.
Being an obligatory part of the building, the terrace is a complete recreation area.
Most often, this is an open area under a canopy, decorated in minimalist traditions. In some cases, it is complemented by a wooden fence, in harmony with the color scheme of the facade.
Depending on the design project and the wishes of the owner, the terrace can be combined with the porch, located on the opposite side of it, or simply surround the entire building along the perimeter.
Scandinavian style home decor: color schemes
Color solutions for the design of the facades of Scandinavian houses are selected depending on the characteristics of the landscape.
White. It corresponds to the northern nature as much as possible, personifying snow. Perfectly fitting into any environment, it gives buildings a visual lightness, harmoniously combined with both cold and warm shades. 
Black. On the facade of a small Scandinavian house, this color looks incredibly stylish and concise. And woody and milky accents give it notes of warmth and grace. 
wood beige. Perfectly complements any landscape, demonstrating the natural beauty of the texture and creating a feeling of home comfort. It looks especially impressive in combination with darker shades or contrasting whites. 
Grey. Impeccably practical, modern and concise option, perfect for urban development. Combines favorably with all the basic colors of the style, allowing you to create win-win options. 
Scandinavian style houses - photo
