How to compare Scandinavian Style vs. Contemporary Style. Both Scandinavian and contemporary styles are popular in interior design, known for their clean lines and functional aesthetics. However, they each have unique characteristics and philosophies that set them apart. Scandinavian design, rooted in the Nordic countries, emphasizes simplicity, natural elements, and a cozy atmosphere, often referred to as “hygge.”

In contrast, contemporary design is ever-evolving, incorporating current trends and a more eclectic approach. Here’s an in-depth comparison to help you understand the nuances of these two styles and decide which one best suits your space.

Let’s start with the basics:

1. Origins and Philosophy

Scandinavian style

• Origins: Rooted in the Nordic countries (Denmark, Norway, Sweden, and Finland), this style emerged in the early 20th century and gained prominence in the 1950s.
• Philosophy: Emphasizes simplicity, functionality, and a connection to nature. It reflects the Scandinavian way of life, focusing on coziness (hygge), sustainability, and practicality.

Contemporary Style

• Origins: Contemporary design refers to what is currently popular or in vogue. It started in the latter half of the 20th century and constantly evolves.
• Philosophy: Prioritizes sleekness, sophistication, and modernity. It embraces new materials and technologies, focusing on creating spaces that feel fresh, current, and stylish.

2. Color Palette

When it comes to color and comparing Scandinavian Style vs. Contemporary Style. Scandinavian and contemporary styles each bring their own unique palette to interior design. Scandinavian design favors a calm, neutral color scheme, with whites, grays, and soft beiges setting the tone. These colors create a serene and airy atmosphere, making spaces feel light and open. Occasional pops of muted pastels or natural wood tones add warmth without overwhelming the simplicity. In contrast, contemporary design embraces a broader spectrum of colors.

While it often starts with a base of neutrals like black, white, and gray, it isn’t afraid to incorporate bold, vibrant hues as accents. This approach creates a striking, polished look that feels fresh and dynamic. Understanding these color preferences can help you choose the right palette to achieve the perfect mood in your home, whether you’re drawn to the calm and cozy or the bold and modern.

Scandinavian style

• Colors: Predominantly uses neutral tones such as whites, grays, and soft beiges. These are often complemented by muted pastels and natural wood tones.
• Mood: Creates a calm, serene, and airy atmosphere. The colors are chosen to reflect light and enhance the feeling of spaciousness, crucial in the long, dark winters of the Nordic region

Contemporary style:

• Colors: Uses a broader range of colors, often including bold and striking hues alongside neutrals. Black, white, and gray are staples, but bright, vibrant colors can also be incorporated as accents. Have a look at what colors go well with a contemporary style design on our Ultimate Guide for Contemporary Style
• Mood: Focuses on creating a polished and sophisticated environment. The use of contrasting colors adds drama and visual interest.

3. Materials and Textures

When it comes to materials, Scandinavian and contemporary styles each bring their own unique flavor to interior design. Scandinavian design emphasizes the use of natural materials to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. You’ll find plenty of wood, leather, wool, and linen, which add warmth and texture to a space. These materials reflect the Scandinavian commitment to sustainability and a connection to nature.

Conversely, contemporary design embraces a mix of natural and synthetic materials, focusing on sleekness and sophistication. Metals, glass, and polished surfaces are commonly used, alongside natural wood and fabrics, to create a modern and stylish look. Understanding these material preferences can help you choose the right elements to achieve the desired ambiance in your home. These are the main differences in textures for Scandinavian Style vs. Contemporary Style:

Scandinavian Style:

• Materials: Prefers natural materials like wood, leather, wool, and linen. These materials add warmth and texture, essential for creating a cozy atmosphere.
• Textures: Emphasizes layering textures to add depth. Think woven rugs, knitted throws, and natural fiber textiles.

Contemporary Style

• Materials: Embraces a mix of natural and synthetic materials. Metals, glass, and polished surfaces are commonly used alongside natural wood and fabrics.
• Textures: Focuses on smooth and sleek textures. High-gloss finishes, metal accents, and smooth leather are typical in contemporary interiors.

4. Furniture

When choosing furniture, understanding the distinct characteristics of Scandinavian and contemporary styles can make all the difference in achieving your desired look. Scandinavian furniture is all about simplicity, functionality, and timeless beauty. Think light-colored woods, clean lines, and organic shapes that offer practicality and a sense of warmth. Each piece is designed to be both useful and enduring. On the other hand, contemporary furniture focuses on bold lines, striking shapes, and innovative designs.

It often combines materials like metal, glass, and polished surfaces to create pieces that are not only functional but also serve as eye-catching statements. By recognizing these differences, you can select furniture that perfectly aligns with your aesthetic and creates a harmonious atmosphere in your home.

Scandinavian Style:

• Design: Furniture is characterized by its simplicity, functionality, and timelessness. Pieces often have clean lines, organic shapes, and are made from light-colored wood.
• Function: Multi-functional furniture is common, reflecting the practical nature of Scandinavian design. Storage solutions are integrated seamlessly.

Contemporary Style:

• Design: Furniture features bold lines, striking shapes, and often incorporates innovative designs. Pieces may have an artistic or sculptural quality.
• Function: While functionality is important, contemporary furniture often prioritizes aesthetic appeal and modern design trends.

5. Space Layout

When it comes to layout, Scandinavian and contemporary styles offer distinct approaches to arranging your space. Scandinavian design prioritizes open, uncluttered layouts that promote easy movement and a sense of calm. Furniture is arranged to create a harmonious flow, ensuring that each piece has a purpose and the space feels airy and inviting. In contrast, contemporary design often embraces flexible and adaptable layouts, frequently featuring open-plan spaces.

This style emphasizes creating defined zones within a larger area, allowing for a seamless flow while also highlighting specific functional areas. By understanding these layout principles, you can design a home that feels both organized and stylish, whether you prefer the serene openness of Scandinavian design or the dynamic versatility of contemporary style.

Scandinavian Style:

• Layout: Emphasizes open, uncluttered spaces. Furniture is arranged to allow for easy movement and a sense of openness.
• Flow: The flow between different areas is smooth, promoting a harmonious and relaxed living environment.

Contemporary Style:

• Layout: Flexible and adaptable, often featuring open-plan spaces. Furniture placement may be bold and unconventional to create visual interest.
• Flow: Prioritizes creating a seamless flow, but with more emphasis on individual zones and functional areas within the space.

In this post we cover the main differences between a Scandinavian vs Contemporary interior style. Both Scandinavian and contemporary styles offer unique approaches to interior design, each with its own set of principles and aesthetics. Scandinavian design, with its emphasis on simplicity, natural elements, and coziness, creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. Contemporary design, on the other hand, focuses on sleekness, modernity, and sophistication, making spaces feel stylish and up-to-date. Depending on your personal preferences and lifestyle, you can choose the elements from each style that resonate with you to create a home that is both beautiful and functional.