Among the variety of design directions, Ukrainians often tend to the Italian. The traits of minimalist Italian design are noticeable in most interiors.
In general, we've developed our own unique culture of home furnishing and interior design. Unfortunately, like the once-trendy 'Eurorepair', it is also quite dull and limited.
This makes homes look monotonous and as if they're stamped out from the same mold. Similar 'trendy' kitchen facades. Similar popular 'of-the-moment' colors. Mostly built-in furniture made of chipboard or MDF.
Yes, of course, designers try to make the most efficient use of space and create 'trendy' designs, and in this pursuit, they often follow the wishes of their clients.
However, such renovations often turn out to be lifeless and formulaic, even though they are frequently labeled as Scandinavian design.
But Scandinavian design is somewhat different. In fact, it's often simpler to implement than what is reproduced in interior design in our region.
Scandinavian design is democratic.
Above all, it is simple. The calling of Scandinavian interior design is to become an extension of its owners' lifestyle, without unnecessary pomp and layers of decorative solutions.
If this is an entryway, it has convenient hooks for outerwear. Not hidden behind shiny wardrobe doors, but open and accessible. So you can quickly step in and take off your coat, while still having a place for all necessary items within direct reach.
Open shelves for shoes, a place to sit down and put them on. Space for a bicycle or a leash for pets. Everything is simple, without unnecessary, complex, expensive solutions.
The same rule applies to any room.
A kitchen in Scandinavian design is not a completely grey, maximally closed, and filled-with-closed-doors system, as it has somehow become popular here.
On the contrary, a Scandinavian kitchen is bright and fairly open. With simple facades, whether wooden, plywood, or white. It doesn't always have a ton of built-in lighting and expensive fittings. Rather the opposite.
However, it embodies the taste and charm of its owners. Often, a kitchen in Scandinavian design is complemented by old or restored items inherited from parents or grandparents. They get a new life in such an interior.
Scandinavian design is all about natural textures.
I would call such textures "honest." What is meant by this?
If you have a brick wall, it's open and painted or even unpainted. It's not a gypsum tile "under brick" stuck on drywall. It's real brick, possibly uneven and imperfect, but genuine.
If it's concrete, then it's an open concrete wall, not decorative plaster "under concrete." If it's wood, then it's real planks or veneer, not laminated chipboard with a "wood" coating
These are always simple shapes made from simple materials. As a rule, Scandinavian design does not have "trendy colors" or fashionable plasters. Because trends are fleeting, but the design you create is built to last.
A room in Scandinavian design may seem too simple and even boring. Because usually it's white walls, monotone floors, white ceiling. Sometimes everything is white.
But the accents are made with furniture and decor. It is important that these items are chosen with taste. Usually, these are simple wooden pieces. Soft furniture without pompous fabrics. Lots of open surfaces and shelves with limited decor.
Scandinavian design is ergonomics.
The main focus is functionality and convenience. Also, simplicity and the aesthetics of ordinary things. In Scandinavian design, there is no pomp as found in other styles. Instead, it emphasizes comfort and coziness.
Convenience is when everything is in its place, and there is a place for everything that is truly important to you at your stage of life.
If you work from home, it's a convenient, well-placed desk.
If you love parties with friends, it's a large dining table, almost always wooden. A cozy living room with various tables and chairs.
If you have small children, it's a place for toys and shared activities.
A Scandinavian design space reflects your needs and habits without the layers of unnecessary design tricks or attempts to dazzle guests with wealth.
Scandinavian design is about being, not seeming.
That's why it’s gaining such popularity worldwide. It reflects a new level of consciousness. The ability to rejoice in simple things and moments of life. A move toward true values.
Elevate yourself to this level!
