3 Reasons to Love Scandinavian Holiday Style
Take a nod from the Nordic and bask in the understated spirit of the season.
Giving your home a holiday refresh doesn't have to mean relying solely on your tried-and-true traditions. For a fresh, scaled-back take to seasonal spirit, find inspiration in how Norway, Sweden, Finland, and the rest of the Nordic celebrates—evoking the peacefulness of a white winter.
1. Pared-Down Palette
Rather than our jolly litany of reds and greens, Scandinavians pull colors from their magical landscapes—layering whites, silvers, light woods, and rich greenery. Deep berry reds make an appearance as small accents in traditional knit patterns.
This nature-inspired scheme creates a calming backdrop perfect for slowing down and savoring the moment. Embrace a holiday décor foundation grounded in quieter, earthy colors.
2. Less-is-More Décor
Just as with their year-round style, Nordic holidays are all about decorating with a light hand. But this minimalist approach is far from stark—heaps of candlelight, cozy textures, and craftsmanship details bring in the inviting warmth.
Being thoughtful (and sparse) with your seasonal pieces makes the few special ones you choose stand out all the more. This means your tree too: Fight the urge to fill every last nook and cranny so its natural beauty can be on display too.
3. Refined Natural Materials
Unfinished woods, soft furs, galvanized metal, traditional knits, and rustic ceramics are mainstays in Scandinavian homes, especially around the holidays. These earthy materials honor the region's proud heritage of craftsmanship and subtly draw a connection to scenes outside.
Opting for these materials for accents, like rugs, blankets, and ornaments, are an effortless way to infuse texture (aka visual interest) into this understated holiday style. Layer raw, soft, speckled, and rough finishes together in the same space for dimension.
