If someone were to ask you to name a country that has an iconic style in various aspects, you’d probably be able to name one between Italy, France, or Spain. Their cultures are widely known for their rich history in fashion, arts, and design, but there are some other ones out there that continue to blaze their own trail and really have left their mark in the world of design.
One such region that you probably wouldn’t have guessed is Scandinavia. The rich and vibrant culture of Scandinavia can be found throughout the world. Like with other cultures, Scandinavia has its own unique design that was developed over years of influence through the region that includes the Nordic countries of Finland, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, and Denmark.
We’re going to take a closer look into the Scandinavian history of design to see how the movement started and continued in popularity up until where we are today with a special focus on Danish furniture design.
Scandinavian Design History Overview
The foundation for true Scandinavian design emerged in the early 20th century and was characterized by minimalism paired with functionality. The idea of creating maximum style and function with the least amount of display was the primary focus of designers, starting in the 1930s who helped shape the “Golden Age of Scandinavian design” that would last through the 1970s.
Designers throughout the region all contributed to the Scandinavian design, including:
- Alvar Aalto- furniture and textiles
- Arne Jacobsen- chairs
- Borge Mogensen- furniture
- Hans J. Wegner- chairs
- Verner Panton- plastic chairs
- Poul Henningsen- lamps
- Maija Isola- printed textiles
Throughout the 1930s and after, the Scandinavian design philosophy really began to take shape. There are three main factors that contribute to the overall design philosophy and they are functionality, simplicity and clean lines.
Each one is especially important and stays consistent with the overall theme of Scandinavian design. In order to stay true, one should be in harmony with his/her environment and creations should be made to last rather than replaced. Often inspired by the simplicity and beauty of nature, the goals of designing were to promote quality, sustainable products that enhanced and unencumbered one’s lifestyle. 
Design Principles and Trends
Scandinavian designs are all rooted in one main principle and that is to improve daily life. Simple enough, yet it is so easy to find ourselves surrounded by clutter and useless items in our lives just for the sake of having them. This design concept encompassed everything, including interior design. From lighting to silverware, Scandinavian designers were heart set on creating simple, functional products for their fellow neighbors.
Here are some brief explanations of common trends that you may recognize but never knew the Scandinavian roots.
- Floors – it is very uncommon to see wall to wall carpet in a Scandinavian home. Typically, the flooring is a light-colored wood throughout the house with area rugs used very sparingly.
- Surfaces – Oak and teak woods are the most commonly used for walls, ceilings, cabinets, and furniture because of their warm, natural tone. Pine can be used but only after being treated with special oil to reduce the yellow tones.
- Light – due to the geographic location of the Nordic countries, their designs must try to incorporate as much natural light as possible. Generous windows, sheer or minimal treatments, and mirrors help amplify the light and visually expand the interior space.
- Eco-friendly – whenever possible, designers will strive to use eco-friendly materials to keep aligned with the natural aspect of the design.
- Colors – while white walls may seem a bit underwhelming but are extremely common. Blues, grays and other cool, neutral shaded textiles are used to complement the white walls. Sometimes a pop of color can be used by incorporating yellows and oranges to bring some life.
- Accessories – unlike many design schemes that rely heavily on accessories to tie a room together, Scandinavian design sticks to the “less is more” idea and keeps accessories to a minimum to reduce clutter and eliminate visual distractions.
It is truly considered art in the way that Scandinavian design perfectly weds artistic merit with functionality, all while proving efficient and minimalistic. However, it is important to note that while some design themes focus on minimalism to the extreme, the Nordic countries designs are never done just for the sake of minimalism. Artistic beauty is fully achieved with the utmost mindfulness to everyday practicality. Clean design lines, uncluttered curves and no frill or thrills added in can be a stark contrast to the intricate and elegant design cultures of other countries/regions.
Scandinavian Furniture Overview
The principles behind the design of furniture are no different. Due to the inherent artistic beauty, the functional pieces have been sought by millions around the world that seek the aesthetic practicality of beautiful furniture. Scandinavian modern design first made its mark in the 1950s with Arne Jacobsen, of Denmark, leading the way with the concept of architectural functionalism at the helm- the idea that one should always design with a purpose in mind – no-frills without function. Specializing in simple yet visually stunning chairs, Jacobsen remains one of the strongest influences in Scandinavian home design today. His most famous design, the Egg Chair, remains exceptionally popular.
Another exceptional Scandinavian chair and furniture designer was Hans Wegner. Like Jacobsen, Wegner was also Danish and created a stunning portfolio of simplistic chair designs that would test the limits in the 20th century. Pushing the envelope of design, Wegner and other contemporary designers experimented with new materials and vibrant colors to create their pieces. The invention of plastic was a breakthrough for designers everywhere; lightweight and the ability to be molded into any shape imaginable allowed Wegner and others to create freely.
Denmark may have the richest roots in furniture design out of all the Nordic countries due to its direct connection with Germany. Many Danish designers learned and were inspired by the world-renowned design school called the Bauhaus. Scandinavian modern furniture design was created decades ago, but designers and manufacturers are carrying on the very same design principles today.
Cane-Line is one such furniture manufacturer that has established itself firmly as a leader in functional minimalist design in the luxury outdoor furniture industry. Based in Denmark, Cane Line produces a full line of furniture and accessories that are full on function and minimal in design.
Check out some examples of the Scandinavian design elements for yourself:
- Peacock Chair– simple yet comfortable, minimal yet stylish- this chair offers it all.
- Rectangular Flowerbox Planter– a perfect example a functional accessory, this planter utilizes warm, certified teak to give your flowers the proper display.
- Urban 3-Seater Sofa– just an example of their many seating options. This couch not only adds a great design element but also provides a space to relax comfortably.
- Traveler Folding Lounge Chair– the perfect chair to keep in reserve until all the guests arrive. Unlike your standard folding chair, this one people want to sit in.
- Copenhagen Rocking Chair– there is no better way to enjoy your patio than to be gently rocking back and forth, enjoying whatever season it happens to be.
The simplistic design of Cane Line’s furniture and accessories can fit in perfectly with your existing space or be a great focal point for a totally revamped style. Whatever you are looking for, whether its Scandinavian design or not, we have it all. At Clima, we specialize in luxury indoor and outdoor furniture and accessories from industry-leading designers and manufacturers from around the world. So check out Cane Line’s full line of furniture today and start enjoying your patio the way you’ve always dreamed.