Discover the Scandi Cottage interior trend
If you’re called by the allure of countryside cottage living, yet drawn to the clean lines of Scandinavian design - this trend could be just your thing. Scandi Cottage is an interior style that combines the cosy, rustic charm of traditional cottages with the minimalist and functional principles of Scandinavian interior design. With the acceptance of remote working seeing a lessened need to work in the office, it’s not just celebs taking up residence outside the big cities - and it calls for a modern refresh of traditional country cottage style. This is a highly aspirational, yet homely look - influenced by Cottagecore, but more refined and elegant - offering a blend of warmth and simplicity that is both inviting and aesthetically pleasing.
The same Scandi Cottage look - two different budgets
If you love the look of this trend, there’s great news - it’s achievable no matter your budget. Pared-back, simplistic silhouettes are the key here, which are the mainstay of budget furniture ranges; while on the splurge end, traditionally styled upholstery is the place to splash out. Shopping secondhand is a great way to make the budget stretch, and lets you conserve your budget to invest in key pieces like sofas or beds - check online marketplaces or flea markets for smaller decor pieces or accessories.
If you want to splurge…
Beautiful wood grain brings warmth to any space, and here spending a little more on your bed frame also adds a stylish parquet-inspired headboard. A comfortable bedroom chair offers the finishing touch, as well as a cosy reading nook - or simply a place to put on your socks each morning!
If you want to save…
A classic painted grey bed frame is sturdy and smart, and a storage ottoman is the perfect addition to the end of your bed - serving as seating and additional storage for spare linens, clothing or that out-of-season duvet.
How to create a Scandi Cottage aesthetic
Working particularly well in smaller spaces, this homely vibe is ideal for inspiring a cosy, tranquil space - perfect for bedrooms, living spaces and dining rooms alike. Want to cultivate this aesthetic in your home? Check out our tips below.
Serene colour palette
Soft, serene and simple is the name of the game when it comes to colours here. Think classic cream and calming sage green; all against a backdrop of natural woods and woven linens. Painted finishes and rattan accessories blend the look together, and this is where collections of vintage trinkets really shine.
Traditional shapes
There’s something about a traditionally shaped sofa that endures so well - shapes that have aged timelessly and are as loved today as they were when first invented. This trend embraces all your favourite traditional sofa shapes - and pairs them with more sleek, contemporary accessories, like coffee tables and lamps, for a new take on the look.
Mismatched style
Who says all your dining chairs have to match? Or your sofa suite must all be in one hue? Combining traditional flair with contemporary pieces adds fun to your space, without compromising on calming vibes. To channel this aesthetic on a budget, we love the look of vintage dining chairs painted in the same serene shades.
Pretty prints
Incorporating classic prints into your traditional decor is a great way to add extra interest without compromising the minimalist look. Stick closely to softer prints in your serene colour palette, but otherwise you have your pick of timeless patterns - think stripes, intricate florals, cheesecloth and gingham. All are ideal for accent armchairs, statement headboards or footstools, or play a little safer with soft furnishings like cushions and linens.
Need some Scandi inspiration?
Check out how our DFS customers style their thing.
Not quite your trend? Try these instead!
From creating a modern farmhouse dining room to channelling an earthy living room - there’s so many ways to be inspired by this trend. If that’s not quite your thing, though - that’s totally fine. Cosy living room design isn’t just limited to this trend; and if you’re looking for ideas, here’s a few more interiors trends we think you might like.
