Skip to content

Creating a Serene Scandinavian Dining Room: A Design Guide

February 21, 2025
A Scandinavian style dining room.

Affiliate Disclosure: This blog post contains affiliate links. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!

Dreaming of a dining space that’s both stylish and soothing? Look no further than the Scandinavian design aesthetic. Known for its clean lines, natural materials, and bright, airy feel, it’s the perfect recipe for a dining room you’ll love. This guide will walk you through the key elements of creating a Scandinavian-inspired dining room, drawing inspiration from the image above.

Embrace the Light:

Scandinavian design is all about maximizing natural light. Start by assessing the lighting in your dining room. Large windows or glass doors are ideal. If your space is limited in natural light, consider adding reflective surfaces like mirrors or choosing light-colored paint for the walls to bounce the light around. Sheer, light-colored curtains, like the ones in the image, are a great way to filter sunlight while maintaining privacy. You can find similar linen curtains here.

The Power of a Neutral Palette:

The foundation of any Scandinavian design is a neutral color palette. Think whites, off-whites, light grays, and natural wood tones. This creates a calm and inviting atmosphere. The image showcases this beautifully, with its white walls, light wood furniture, and soft textiles. This palette allows the pops of color, like the pink and green from the flowers, to truly stand out without overwhelming the space.

A color palette featuring Earthen Jug (SW7703), Perfect Greige (SW6073), Reflection (SW7661), Mesclun Green (SW6724), and Baked Cookie (SW9098).

Please note that these colors are approximate. The exact shades may vary depending on lighting and materials.

Natural Materials are Key:

Bring the outdoors in by incorporating natural materials wherever possible. Wood is a staple in Scandinavian design, and the dining table and chairs in the image exemplify this. Look for pieces in light woods like oak, beech, or ash. A similar light wood dining table can become the centerpiece of your dining room. Don’t forget other natural elements like linen, wool, and cotton for textiles.

Focus on Functionality and Simplicity:

Scandinavian design prioritizes functionality and simplicity. Choose furniture that is both beautiful and practical. Avoid overly ornate or fussy pieces. The dining chairs in the image, with their clean lines and upholstered seats, are a perfect example. You can find similar upholstered dining chairs online. A modern wood console table like the one in the image can provide extra storage and display space.

Adding Personality with Decor:

While minimalism is key, that doesn’t mean your dining room has to be devoid of personality. Introduce carefully chosen decor items to add warmth and interest. Flowers are a fantastic way to bring life and color to the space, as seen in the image. Consider adding a few clear glass vases for flowers. Wall art, like the botanical prints wall art in the image, can also add a touch of personality. A long floating shelf can be both functional and decorative.

Setting the Table:

Even everyday meals can feel special in a beautifully set dining room. Opt for simple, elegant tableware, like a white dinnerware set. Add a touch of texture with linen napkins or placemats.

Creating Hygge:

No discussion of Scandinavian design is complete without mentioning “hygge.” Hygge is a Danish concept that encompasses coziness, comfort, and contentment. Create a sense of hygge in your dining room by adding soft textures, warm lighting, and inviting touches. Think sheepskin throws, candles, and a cozy rug.

By following these tips, you can create a serene and stylish Scandinavian dining room that you and your family will enjoy for years to come. Remember to focus on light, natural materials, simplicity, and functionality. With a little planning, you can transform your dining room into a haven of tranquility and style.

Affiliate Disclosure: This blog post contains affiliate links. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!