Scandinavia is a peninsula stretched along the northern seas, where North Germanic tribes moved shortly before our era and preserved their way of life and traditions. Before the Viking Age, few people were interested in this region and it experienced virtually no external influence, primarily Roman.
A Scandinavian-style house has a unique history. They fit into it modern tendencies and new items, but at its core it remained original.
From antiquity to the present day
When the ancient Germans came to these lands, the uninhabited territories were covered with forests, separated by mountain ranges and fjords. Forests were cut down for arable land, and the first estates began to appear. They were calculated for large family clans consisting of three generations. The central house, which housed all the settlers, was large - up to 30 m in length. In the north it was a log structure, in the south it was a frame building, but in any case it was coated with clay on top.
Such a house had one large living space, where only the master bedroom was conventionally fenced off. All utensils were placed in chests that stood along the walls. They dined and worked at the same table in the winter, and the room was heated by a fireplace located in the middle. Adjacent to this large hall was a stable and a canopy, which had previously been one with the hall, and all of this was covered with one gable roof. They covered it with turf.
Social stratification among the Scandinavian peoples began even before the Viking Age, as evidenced by the epic “Elder Edda”. Soon it was superimposed on depletion of the land fund, and local residents began to seek happiness outside their homeland. This relieved social tensions, but continental Europe faced the other side of such migration.
Gradually destroyed in the Middle Ages big family, and the surplus of villagers gradually fills the cities. This influenced construction in two ways: urban architecture was strongly influenced by European, primarily German cities, stone construction was more widely used, and traditional dwellings continued to exist on farmsteads.
However, the nature of the home has changed over the centuries. This was expressed as follows:
- Separated from the residential building outbuildings. Moreover, the richer the owner was, the more specialized these buildings were.
- The clean yard was separated from the cattle yard, now they were located in different parts yard
- The clay on the façade is gradually being replaced by boards.
- As soon as it became possible to purchase window glass, windows appeared in houses. Since then, their size has only grown.
- The earthen floor was replaced with planks.
In the south of Sweden and Norway, the construction of a rural house was more often frame, in the north - log house. Since the 19th century, internal walls began to be cut down to make them flat. The hearth has also undergone considerable changes: since the 13th century, the first fires have been recorded in Norway. chimneys(before this, houses were heated in black), and since the 16th century, white stoves became common.
Scandinavian houses in modern times
Technologies from the continent penetrated into the homes of Scandinavian residents, but the changes that gradually occurred to the house only partially affected it. Until recently, the villager made his own furniture, and hence the passion of the Swedes and Norwegians to simple forms.
Since for a long period of history the peasant lived in conditions of lack of light, he began to look for it wherever he could. A Scandinavian house rarely has curtains: only residents of the first floors in cities hang them, often limiting themselves to tulle. The interior walls of the house are kept in light colors, and sometimes even painted white, like the furniture.
Houses have grown in height: since the century before last, two- and three-story buildings have appeared.
A modern house can have any shape from the outside; Scandinavians are no strangers to constructivism, although most of them still prefer traditional forms. But the cladding with boards has not gone away, nor have color preferences. Thus, the most popular wall color in Sweden remains red; in Norway, green and blue are also popular. But the window frames are always white.
Scandinavians are conservative in their choice of building materials. They are distrustful of plastic in the house, and often even modern device roofing raises their doubts. In some Norwegian farmsteads, birch bark waterproofing and turf covering are still common.
Swedes and Norwegians are modest people. If you look at what their houses look like, the Russian developer won’t really like it: there’s nothing to show off.
Currently, architectural bureaus use the term “Scandinavian style” to describe something that Scandinavians will not live in. But architects and designers are hostages of their clients; they are rarely trusted to do everything to their taste, and often fairly. So what are the features of real northern houses?
Appearance
As mentioned earlier, preference is given to the traditional form - four walls and a gable roof. There are houses with both hip and flat roofs, but they don’t make the weather, as they say.
The dominant color scheme of the facade is red. Less common are yellow and blue, and sometimes the house is white.
The window sizes are the maximum possible size. It is limited by considerations of energy saving - local residents do not like unnecessary spending on heating, and therefore Special attention are devoted to heating engineering.
In rural areas, glazed verandas are common. The entrance is decorated modestly, sometimes with a small staircase. There are no blind fences. In a number of places where the buildings are crowded, the yard is fenced off from the roadway by a low fence, about half a meter, behind which there is a flower bed. And if there is a lot of space, they don’t fence it off with anything - people walk freely on the ground and it doesn’t occur to anyone to climb inside or break out the windows.
Internal layout
The entrance is separated from the living quarters by a hallway, which acts as a vestibule. If the entrance to the house is located on the veranda, then the hallway is not fenced off at all.
Isolated rooms in a Scandinavian house are the bathroom and bedrooms. The kitchen, dining room, living room are separated from each other symbolically, or not at all. This is due to the fact that previously there was always one room in the house for everything, and now this tradition continues.
Another reason for this layout is the habit of inviting guests home, and not to catering. Guests group around dining area, and therefore the kitchen, dining room and TV are usually adjacent. Previously, the role of a kind of center of everything was played by an open hearth, later it was replaced by stoves and fireplaces, and now by a kitchen. However, real or decorative fireplaces and now it is not uncommon.
Separate kitchens are often found in city apartments, the layouts of which differ little from Russian ones. But even there they communicate with both the corridor and the living room.
Finishing features
Residents of Scandinavian countries are lovers of natural materials. They don’t like plastic windows and until the last minute they preserve and repair their wooden ones, and after they finally fail, they order new ones of the same kind.
The ceiling is often not closed, leaving open beams. Previously they were not painted, but now they prefer white.
The walls are usually plastered, although there are variations, for example:
- brickwork;
- lining.
Usually exposed masonry is just one wall, but wooden walls can be everywhere, especially in rural areas. They love wood trim in Norway.
You don't often see wallpaper in your home. Surfaces are usually painted, with the main color being so-called Stockholm white. They add a little gray and yellow to the paint - and the room no longer resembles a treatment room.
This is not to say that bright color accents are completely alien to the inhabitants of Scandinavia. This is wrong. When acid colors were in fashion, walls were painted with them in city apartments, especially where young people lived. Later, stylized wall paintings and geometric patterns became popular - and you will definitely find such a color accent on one of the walls. All kinds of photographs, pictures, posters - all this is in the home and does not go anywhere.
The Scandinavian house is probably the only one in the world where there are still wooden floors made from normal floorboards. There may well be tiles in the kitchens and bathrooms, but in the rooms there is only wood. The reason for this is simple: it’s more comfortable to sit this way, especially in winter. And if there are children in the house, even more so. Such floors are not covered with varnish or paint: local residents believe that it is more beautiful this way.
Furniture in the house
It is distinguished by its simplicity of form. You will not find curlicues or complex facades here. Sofa? It should be comfortable, just like the bed. Closet? They are rare here; usually in the house there are storage places for those things that cannot be put on a shelf, and they do not catch the eye. But in a Scandinavian house there are shelves, and they are open. There are also all kinds of shelves and shelves, often the same color as the wall, but sometimes contrasting with it.
The kitchen is often separated from the living room by a bar counter, where people eat in the morning. IN rural houses they prefer to do this at a table, often quite large.
Bedrooms rarely contain any furniture other than the bed. Sometimes you can find a chest of drawers there, but there are no sets with a mirror and a bunch of cosmetics. In the old days, the owners' sleeping quarters were very small, sometimes two couples slept there: the grandmother and grandfather below, and the young spouses above. The useful area has since increased several times, but it seems that the inhabitants of Scandinavia have not found what else they can put in the bedroom.
Textile design
Norwegians and Swedes don't like curtains. The exception is residents of the first floors of city apartments, but they also close their windows only at night. In individual houses, tulle can hang on the windows. Curtain design is of little concern to people. Here you will not find complex folds, lambrequins, and sometimes, according to Russian housewives, the curtains resemble some kind of rags on grommets or a rod. Window sills often become a place for geraniums and other vegetation, and before Christmas, the typical slide candlesticks for these places are placed on them.
If a person wants to change the decor in the room a little, he can put a cover on the sofa or change the rug. Furniture textiles can be very diverse in color; for example, one chair will remain gray and the other will be floral. The pillows on the sofa can have everything color scheme that exists on the planet.
Fleecy products are rarely used as carpet on the floor. Much more often it will be an ordinary mat or rug, but at one time skins came into fashion, and they stayed that way.
Scandinavians prefer natural fabrics - linen and cotton.
It is interesting that northerners do not pursue dark or silk bed linen. In Russia, what the same Swedes sleep on and under seems like some kind of village relic - all these white duvet covers and polka dot pillowcases with a creepy rosette. But to the Scandinavians themselves, this all seems natural and convenient.
Lighting
Strangely, electricity has still not reached some remote areas of the Scandinavian countries, and such houses are still lit with kerosene lamps.
Where there is electricity, lighting fixtures a lot of. So many. IN standard room in addition to the chandelier there will be:
- a pair of floor lamps;
- desk lamp;
- lighting near the rack;
- sconce near the sofa;
- candlestick - what if something...
All this can have a wide variety of shapes and materials. The main thing here is not to focus on the little things. The light source should not distract attention from the light itself. Therefore, it can have any shape - round, square, triangular.
There are also no requirements for the material. Thus, at one time paper lampshades were popular, and without wall lamps that can be directed in any direction, a Scandinavian interior is generally unthinkable.
Scandinavians fell in love with various designer lamps and even primitive light bulbs with nothing hanging on wires. But they are indifferent to pompous chandeliers.
Last warning
You may be wondering - shouldn't you try to build a real Scandinavian house? After all, according to its characteristics, it is quite suitable for Russians. Well, it’s not difficult, because such houses will not require large financial outlays from you. I just want to warn those for whom this style will not suit. So, you should not build a Scandinavian house if you:
- concerned about their status among friends, colleagues and enemies;
- you think that the house should look expensive and rich;
- You place the prestige of brands above your own convenience.
If all of the above is not typical for you, then Scandinavian the house will do never better. You will feel cozy and comfortable in it.
The majestic beauty of northern nature with the mirror surfaces of lakes, rocky slopes, evergreen forests, as well as the harsh climate that forces one to live in constant readiness to fight the elements, largely determined the character of the Scandinavian architectural movement.
Restrainedly practical, but at the same time impeccably elegant, originating in what is now Sweden, Denmark, Norway and Finland, this style is very original, because in its development it managed to avoid the influence of antiquity.
Scandinavian style in architecture: conceptual features
The Scandinavian style in architecture is far from high technology and artistic and decorative innovations. This is rather a modest, devoid of meaningless pathos, rather restrained, but at the same time, a very elegant and cozy option for home decoration.
Absolute rationality, color harmony, impeccable quality and natural materials - these are the main features inherent in the Scandinavian architectural style.
The characteristics of this direction also include:
- conciseness, straight and clear lines of buildings;
- panoramic glazing;
- minimum decorative finishing;
- predominance of wooden elements.
The height of a Scandinavian-style house is small, usually one or two floors. The entire layout is thought out to the smallest detail, making the home as cozy and comfortable as possible.
Reasons for the popularity of the style
Scandinavian style houses are popular in many European countries. The reasons for this demand lie in a number of positive characteristics of such houses:
- harmonious combination of aesthetics and functionality;
- solidity and durability of buildings;
- natural and environmentally friendly materials;
- simplicity and speed of construction;
- relevance of the style, the possibility of placing buildings both within the city and beyond.
Scandinavian style house: design and wall decoration
Traditionally the main building material for the construction of houses in Scandinavian countries there was and remains wood, or more precisely, calibrated or laminated timber.
The natural beauty of wood is not hidden behind a layer of paint, but, on the contrary, they try to emphasize it by treating the walls only with a transparent or tinted protective coating. In this case, preference is given to natural shades: beige, brown, gray-green, earthy black.
The design of the façade in Scandinavian style is based on practical minimalism. To place color accents and give the home an elegant decorative appearance, some elements, such as platbands, ridges, beams and roof supports, are painted in more saturated, and sometimes in bright, contrasting colors.
In its modern design, the Scandinavian style is more laconic.
For construction, not only wood is now used, but also brick and concrete structures. The walls are often covered with light plaster, covered with wooden lining, panels or facade boards.
A carefully thought-out combination of textures and shades, as well as the predominance of natural wood in the decorative design, save these houses from depersonalization without violating the concepts of style.
Roof of a Scandinavian style house
The roof in Scandinavian buildings always meets the requirements of simplicity and functionality. Traditional option– single-pitch or double-pitch design to avoid excessive snow load.
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Traditionally, tiles are used as roofing material. However, recently its polymer analogues have also proven themselves well.
For Scandinavian-style buildings, the color of the roof plays an important role. The harsh northern climate requires the use roofing materials dark shades, mainly gray or rich brown, which accelerates the melting of snow, naturally relieving the roof of excess load.
One of the stylish design options for Scandinavian houses is extensive roof landscaping. In this case, instead of traditional materials, the entire surface of the roof is filled with live lawn grasses.
Window
Windows in a Scandinavian house are always large. They can take over two floors at once. Sometimes even an entire wall is made with panoramic glazing. Thanks to this technique, the eternal problem of lack of lighting is solved, and it becomes possible to constantly enjoy the surrounding landscapes. And given the high quality of the glass units used, heat loss through window openings will be minimal.
Frames, except direct use, being also an integral part facade decor, look massive and solid. Depending on the exterior of the building, their color scheme imitates dark or light wood.
Doors
There are several options for designing entrance doors in Scandinavian buildings.
Fans of modern solutions and free space will find panoramic doors that practically do not stand out against the general background of the glazing, repeating the style of the windows, their shape and color design.
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Supporters of more conservative views should pay attention to insulated metal doors sheathed in wood, in accordance with the color scheme of the facade.
And finally, the third, universal option, combining the previous two - thorough wooden doors, with stylish glass inserts.
Porch and terrace
An integral part of a Scandinavian home is the porch, which is usually quite high. It is located at the main entrance and, taking into account the climatic characteristics of the northern nature, has an exclusively practical purpose - maintaining cleanliness inside the home.
If it is possible to increase usable area, why not use it?!
“To this end, prudent Scandinavians always supplement their construction projects with terraces.
Being an obligatory part of the building, the terrace is a full-fledged recreation area.
Most often, this is an open area under a canopy, decorated in minimalist traditions. In some cases it is supplemented wooden fencing harmonizing with the color design of the facade.
Depending on the design project and the wishes of the owner, the terrace can be combined with the porch, located on the opposite side of it, or simply surround the entire building along the perimeter.
Decorating a home in Scandinavian style: color solutions
Color solutions for the design of the facades of Scandinavian houses are chosen depending on the characteristics of the landscape.
White. It corresponds to northern nature as much as possible, personifying snow. Fits perfectly into any environment, it gives buildings visual lightness, harmoniously combining with both cold and warm shades. 
Black. On the facade of a small Scandinavian house, this color looks incredibly stylish and laconic. And woody and milky accents give it notes of warmth and grace. 
Wood beige. Perfectly complements any landscape, demonstrating the natural beauty of texture and creating a feeling home comfort. Looks especially impressive in combination with darker shades or contrasting whites. 
Grey. An impeccably practical, modern and laconic option, perfect for urban development. It combines favorably with all the basic colors of the style, allowing you to create win-win options. 
Scandinavian style houses - photos
Each nation has its own idea of the architecture of a residential building and the design of premises. This is due to both national traditions and natural features one region or another. Scandinavia, this region of harsh and beautiful nature in northern Europe is no exception. And although each individual country can find its own characteristics that are common to all Scandinavian cultures, the principles of construction, organization of space and interior decoration of a building will unmistakably indicate its stylistic affiliation.
Norway, Sweden, Denmark and Finland are all Nordic countries that share a common architectural tradition. This is partly due to the fact that their historical development was similar - they did not experience the influence of the powerful Roman Empire, remaining pagan for a relatively long time. Actually, it was the pagan heritage that became one of the main themes of the beautiful architecture of northern modernism, the most interesting samples which can be seen in Finland. In addition, the formation of the Scandinavian style in architecture and interiors was facilitated by general features geography: broken coastline, many fjords, cold and harsh climate, a large number of mountains and lakes, huge forests. It is the abundance of forests that determines the popularity of wood in Scandinavia - wooden architecture has been the main type of construction here since ancient times.
Traditional Scandinavian design is associated with simplicity, rationality and democracy. It is characterized by natural materials, laconic forms, environmental friendliness and quality. One of characteristic elements decor becomes the natural texture of wood, which allows you to preserve special technology processing.
Architectural features
What is the Scandinavian style in architecture? The best way to see this, or rather to feel it, is by visiting the world-famous library built by Alvar Aalto in the 30s of the last century in Vyborg. Simple and modest forms may seem rough and even unsightly to a person not interested in architecture - but at the same time every little detail has been thought out. This is especially felt inside the library. Upper diffused light, in which no shadows or glare will interfere with reading; heating pipes are hidden in the walls, thanks to which the room warms up evenly and is protected from drafts. And finally, a lecture hall with an undulating wooden ceiling for better acoustics. It is separated from the park glass wall, through which a stunning view of centuries-old trees opens. Actually, here there are all the signs of a typical Scandinavian house - simplicity of forms, soft colors in harmony with northern nature, and huge windows with a view conducive to meditative contemplation.
Of course, the origins of Scandinavian architecture do not date back to the 30s. The traditional house in the Nordic countries was built from wood. At first it was a bare log house, then they began to sheathe it with boards. Houses sheathed wood siding or clapboard and painted dark red with white frames and window casings, are still being built to this day. This “two-layer” wall construction provides excellent protection from precipitation and piercing wind.
When nowadays they talk about the Scandinavian style in architecture and interior decoration at home, they mean primarily Sweden and Finland. It is to these countries that we owe the characteristic features modern interiors, where light wood is adjacent to glass, ceramics, metal, and the lines are clear and simple, but in this simplicity lies an attractive and discreet beauty. The Scandinavian style in architecture is not positioned as the result of high technology or artistic and decorative innovations. This is a very calm, devoid of unnecessary pathos, modest and comfortable, but at the same time extremely elegant option.
Scandinavian home
A modern Scandinavian residential building is a building built taking into account the terrain and surrounding landscape. When building a house, they try to disturb the land as little as possible and, if possible, preserve most of the vegetation. Of course, if what is being developed is not a plot of virgin forest, but a field overgrown with weeds, then they will not “stand on ceremony” with the flora. But if the natural landscape in the construction area has sufficient color, then they will try to preserve all its elements, be it granite boulders or lichens covering the ground, and they will approach the issue of new plantings very carefully and make sure that they blend organically into the natural environment. And Scandinavians will never lay out a lawn in place of the luxurious vegetation of a pine forest, as we like to do.
The house itself is different simple forms, minimal decor, but at the same time – exceptionally high quality workmanship of all parts of the building. And, of course, unique Scandinavian design. The height of a building rarely exceeds two floors. The colors are usually discreet - beige, brownish, lilac. Scandinavian builders try to preserve the natural texture of wood, which is only emphasized by a colorless coating or tinting. But individual parts are allowed to be brightly colored, for example, ridges and roof supports or gables. Although Norwegians, for example, prefer to paint their houses in bright colors in order to at least somehow resist the gloomy and gray northern winter. The neighbors decided not to be left behind, so brightly colored buildings have recently appeared more and more often in other Scandinavian countries.
Almost certainly, a Scandinavian house will have many panoramic windows through which it is so good to enjoy the surrounding landscape. But this does not in any way contribute to heat loss, since double-glazed windows provide sufficient thermal insulation. When constructing a building, preference is given to natural materials, primarily calibrated or laminated veneer lumber. No less popular are frame structures, especially when constructing inexpensive houses. All materials undergo the most stringent selection and strict environmental assessment, so they are absolutely safe for health. The roof is covered with tiles, metal - painted or “natural” (copper is especially popular), or various polymer materials. It can be either pitched or flat. It depends on the architecture of the house, but pitched is much more common. Remove snow from flat roof very difficult, especially in the spring, but with a slope, this question can be left, literally, to chance.
Of course, residential buildings are built not only from wood and building materials made from it. There are many brick and reinforced concrete buildings. But Scandinavians still love wood most of all. Moreover, modern processing technologies make it possible to give it previously unattainable qualities - durability and ease of use.
Working for the public is alien to our northern neighbors, so the house is built and furnished in such a way that the owners find it pleasant and comfortable to live in. Strict Protestant traditions do not encourage provocative luxury, so Scandinavians simply will not understand people who thus show their superiority over others.
Interior Design
Typically Scandinavian interiors are distinguished by several characteristic features. First of all, it is a modest, soft and elegant beauty. The second feature is that they are painted with light paint or finished wood panels walls; Low-key wallpaper for painting is also often used.
In Swedish or Finnish house it is extremely difficult to find a suspended or suspended ceiling of saturated color or complex design. However, like any non-traditional ceiling in general. But if it is possible to build a pitched ceiling in the attic, they will definitely do it, because it will give the room individuality. In addition, the room will become more spacious, and the space will be used more efficiently. A floor made of light boards, coated with transparent varnish, can add lightness to the interior of even a small room.
When decorating a bathroom or kitchen, the Swedes and Danes show amazing originality. Both small details and the main finishing elements can bring life into the style of a room. For example, walls covered with waterproof wallpaper of a hot fiery color and a structure reminiscent of a thin sliver. Such an unusual shade for a bathroom should perfectly invigorate on a dark winter morning. And in the kitchen you can find many pleasant and funny little things.
The textiles used in the interior are distinguished by the harmony of colors and patterns. Subtle colors and calm combinations are preferred. The elegant cream-olive stripe on furniture covers, so beloved by Scandinavians, goes well with a beige shade natural wood, from which low and wide coffee tables are made. Huge windows are usually slightly covered with light curtains. Heavy curtains are not popular here - after all, most of the year there is not enough light, and during the short summer you don’t want to hide from it at all.
Straight lines and rectangular shapes cabinet furniture made of wood and veneered chipboards are dictated by the basic concept of the Scandinavian style in interior design.
A variety of walls, cabinets, shelves, cabinets, tables, hallways are very functional, have modular systems, and due to light colors they visually lighten the interior, filling it with a harmonious play of lines. Upholstered furniture has straight and simple symmetrical shapes. The upholstery is made from durable natural fabrics, leather and suede.
Typically, designers prefer to hide frame bases with upholstery, which gives upholstered furniture completeness of appearance and ensures a harmonious combination with cabinet furniture.
The work of Scandinavian designers is distinguished, in addition to a careful attitude to national traditions, by a love for natural materials - and not only wood. Metal, leather, natural textiles (linen and wool), as well as ceramics are materials that Swedish, Finnish or Danish interiors cannot do without. Furniture and accessories created by designers from northern countries are not only environmentally friendly, but also a unique combination of aesthetics and functionality.
Everything in the home furnishings has been thought out to ensure maximum comfort- from strong fastening of parts, reliable transformation mechanisms that provide compact storage or new functionality of furniture, to beautiful and durable fittings. Moreover, interior items with the Scandinavian brand are almost universal and fit into most modern styles. They are practical, comfortable and do not go out of fashion for years precisely because they have an optimal design and shape. Along with the creation of new models, enterprises again and again reproduce products loved by customers, only slightly updating them in the spirit of the times.
Scandinavian architecture is surprisingly organic, solid and in perfect harmony with the surrounding universe. Perhaps it is this leisurely and contemplative approach to life, which begins at home, that lies the secret of the centuries-old prosperity of the descendants of the Vikings.
Victor Beskrovny
"Landowner of the North-West"
No. 4(22), 2007
The Scandinavian style of houses, which came to us from northern Europe, has taken root remarkably well within Russia, because there are also harsh and long winters here. The Scandinavian house captivated us with its simplicity of structure, practicality, and uncomplicated forms. We will look into what the design features of such buildings are. We present to your attention a beautiful collection of photos of houses and interiors in this style.
Architectural features of Scandinavian style houses
If you decide to decorate your interior in a Scandinavian style, you should be prepared to spend a decent amount of money. Because natural materials are used in the decoration of the premises, high-quality analogues also have a high price. Everything should be functional, without unnecessary items, but quality, environmental friendliness, simplicity and naturalness are valued here. Comfort and practicality are the basis of this style.
Distinctive features:
The building is usually erected one or two storey;
Simple, uncomplicated shapes buildings Although there are also original projects with an asymmetrical arrangement of windows, and non-standard color combination in facade decoration.
Such a house will always stand out and attract attention with its originality.
Gable sloping roofs with a sharp top. This design does not retain precipitation, and snow is easily cleared off. Solar panels are usually installed on the south side of the roof.
Preference large panoramic windows, glass doors. So that there is as much natural light in the house as possible.
A bright building with large windows looks very impressive and majestic, despite its small dimensions
Often, in the design of such houses there are options c fully glazed wall or veranda.
If the house is two-story, with an attic, a balcony, they are also trying to glaze panoramic windows And glass doors. This decision can be explained by the fact that the style came to us from northern Europe. Since the winters there are cold and long, there is a shortage sunlight compensate for the increase in natural light in the house.
Another distinctive feature is additional exit to the terrace under a canopy. Due to the frequent rains associated with the northern climate, verandas and terraces are protected from wind and precipitation, which allows you to sit with friends on fresh air In any weather.
Must be present in the house sauna, it could be something small room, if it is not located as a separate building on the site.
Usually in the house there is 2-3 bedrooms, 7-12 sq.m.. The ceiling height is no more than 2.5 m. This is explained by the fact that small rooms are heated faster in the cold season.
The rooms are spacious and bright, with large windows, light walls and mirror surfaces, which increase the space and lighting in the house. The room visually seems larger.
Exterior of a private house in Scandinavian style - features of facade design
The first impression of a house is formed by its appearance, and its surroundings. Therefore, the house must look attractive from the outside. First of all, you should pay attention to the outer part of the building, and then deal with the arrangement of the interior decoration.
Scandinavian-style houses always look attractive and stand out from ordinary buildings.
Facade
Natural materials, lining, siding, timber are used in the decoration of the facade, which allows such buildings to fit harmoniously into the countryside and urban interior of the area.
But it is not only beautiful, but also practical. Such a house will always be warm, despite the weather conditions.
Often, when the facade of a house is designed in a Scandinavian style, color contrast is used. If the cladding is made of light wood, then window frames, hatches, door structures are installed dark shades. Or vice versa, the facade is decorated in dark colors, and the windows and doorways are made of light materials, and must be combined with large panoramic windows, glass verandas, and doors.
If the facade is not lined with wood, then it is painted in a light color using facade paint. Bright accents become the roof, windows, doors.
Landscape
The Scandinavian style does not provide beds and flower beds under the house, or large reservoirs. Small flower beds and low-growing ones would be appropriate. coniferous trees and even then not in large quantities. Beautiful lawns and neat paths are welcome.
Such houses are not fenced; even if a small decorative fence is installed, it is more used as decor, decoration of the house and its surroundings. You can walk along the fence climbing plants. It is not customary to arrange large flower beds near the building. Usually they are limited to a couple of bushes located near the building.
The site is not planted with trees; it is ideal to choose juniper, spruce, and cold-resistant plants for planting, which will symbolize cold Scandinavia
Such houses will not go unnoticed; they will always look bright and at the same time cozy.
On our website you can get acquainted with the most . In the filters you can set the desired direction, the presence of gas, water, electricity and other communications.
Roof
Large gable roofs with a sharp angle are a hallmark of the Scandinavian style. Attic space usually used for bedrooms and offices. The roof is usually covered with tiles, painted metal sheets, polymer roofing is popular.
The dark color of the roof is also chosen for a reason; snow melts faster on such a roof. There is another trick: decorating the roof with pots of herbs, or completely covering it with lawn grass
Roof with lawn grass
Porch
An essential part of a Scandinavian home is the porch. It is built tall, made of wood, with terraces that open onto the backyard or onto the street; usually they are not fenced.
Interior in Scandinavian style - natural peace, space and comfort
Decorating rooms in the Northern European style also uses natural materials; the furnishings should be functional, without unnecessary details or clutter. Furniture in the minimalist style, made of natural wood, is welcome.
The following materials are also used in interior furnishings:
strained glass;
rattan;
wrought iron.
Fabrics used:
wool.
cotton,
Video description
Illustrative examples Scandinavian interiors watch in the video:
Furniture
The shape of the furniture is chosen to be simple and comfortable; it should be comfortable.
Please note that you should not use asymmetrical models or furniture with curved legs. Rectangular tables, simple ottomans, and standard armchairs would be appropriate here.
If the rooms are small, it is advisable to use multifunctional furniture. For example, transformers. A folding chair that converts into a bed will perform several functions at once, especially if guests have arrived and you urgently need to organize an additional bed.
Multifunctional transformable tables are suitable for children's rooms. During the day it is used as desk with shelves, converts into a bed at night.
Baroque and classic style models fit well into the interior of the room. With minimalist furniture, you can put an antique leather chair and a small chest of drawers with forged legs. Such a room will look more comfortable. A good solution is wicker furniture.
It is important not to fill the interior with unnecessary trinkets. Place objects dear to your heart that will evoke positive emotions, Nice memories.
Color
The main color in the interior is white, which is used in all rooms, from the kitchen to the living room.
White color can be of different shades, cold and warm. Therefore, you need to carefully consider which shade of white will dominate in a particular room. This could be a bedroom in white with a hint of blue, or a white living room with a hint of cream or pink or ivory.
Please note that cool shades invigorate and set the mood for the work atmosphere. For example, a section of this color can be used in the kitchen or office. Warm shades relax, set positive emotions, give a feeling of warmth and comfort. A good option for bedroom, living room.
The main feature of this shade is that it visually enlarges the room. But this does not mean that for small rooms it is advisable to use white paint. There must be some accents. A room with a pure white interior will be faceless and too airy. Accents will add color and expressiveness to the interior.
Living room
The living room is the room where the whole family gathers during the day, as well as the room where guests are usually greeted. The interior in light colors always looks fresh and festive, so it will always be pleasant and comfortable to welcome guests there.
Scandinavian style house projects country houses include a fireplace. The facade of the fireplace is made of natural stone, with a fence in the form metal mesh. Sometimes it is replaced with a cast iron fireplace insert.
White and blue living room
The living room is designed in Scandinavian style, combining white and blue colors. It would seem that blue should be cool, but by diluting the interior with the color of light wood, the room became warm and cozy.
A glass table with forged legs and an antique wooden rocking chair fit perfectly into the overall picture; the accent is wooden table in the middle of the room, and white lampshades complement the interior wonderfully.
White bedroom
A bedroom in white looks very delicate. Thanks to the decision to paint the floor white, a feeling of airiness appears. The furniture seems to float in the air. Beautiful combination white with light wood, such a room will always be cozy and warm.
Bright rooms with large panoramic windows give a feeling of celebration, freshness and lightness.
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Conclusion
The right project and style direction of a Scandinavian house is not only warm, but also extremely practical and cozy housing, which is perfect for construction in any climate.
Construction principles and interior design Scandinavian housing was formed under the influence of the harsh climate and practicality of the local population. Certain features of this concept are now widely used by planners and designers around the world, trying to bring shades of naturalness to functional apartments and cottages. Scandinavian country houses are focused on creating a healthy and comfortable environment for human living, which often conflicts with modern needs for products of technological progress.
The main differences of a Scandinavian house
The main characteristics of such a house can be expressed as environmental friendliness, simplicity and naturalness. Where these qualities can manifest themselves, they manifest themselves. Buildings are constructed from available building materials without any particular desire to improve technical and physical qualities or external beauty. The insulating qualities of houses are laid exactly to the extent required by specific living conditions. In this sense, we can note the balance and even optimization of characteristics. This is also evidenced by the fact that Scandinavian-style house designs rarely involve multi-story buildings. Typically these are one-story structures within which the living space of undemanding owners is organized. We can say that architects take exactly as much space as is needed for living. A similar rule applies to naturalness. Scandinavian-style objects should not be confused with the modern fashion for eco-houses or with the trends of minimalism in construction. Application of the same environmentally pure materials was initially due to their availability. If there is an opportunity to significantly benefit from a compromise with natural purity, then building standards do not prohibit this. On the other hand, these days, environmental friendliness has already been included in the list of “signature” features of the Scandinavian style.
Materials for a Scandinavian home
Wood still remains the main building material from which such houses are built. And this decision is justified not only because of the naturalness of the material, but also for economic reasons. Lumber itself is inexpensive, but if it is properly prepared for use with protective impregnations, then the design will provide a full range of technical and operational functions. More technologically advanced materials can be used as finishing materials. modern materials. It is in this part that Scandinavian houses are gradually moving away from the concept of maximum environmental friendliness. This is especially evident in the arrangement roofing coverings. Today, artificial tiles or painted metals are used for such purposes. Since the roof structure often has complex shape, the use of flexible in laying is also practiced polymer coatings. As for the external decoration of the walls, siding in all popular variations made of plastic and metal, as well as elements of panel cladding, are also used.
Design and layout features
In the area, as already mentioned, architects are willing to save money, leaving future residents only practically useful space without “reserve”. In this case, the design necessarily provides for the presence of an attic, an adjacent closed veranda, a kitchen and a living room. Many projects also tend to lower ceilings. At the same time, there are more significant flaws. There is a wide list of functional premises and extensions familiar to Russians, which Scandinavian houses do without. Projects, as a rule, do not provide for separate hallways and dressing room corridors. In some cases, there is also a tendency among designers to combine traditional premises. For example, the kitchen can be combined with the living room, which also allows you to optimize the interior space.
Execution of the facade
The exterior of the home can be decorated with siding, paint, or decorative panels another type. As for color solutions, the emphasis is on pastel neutral tones. Only in rare cases do designers choose dark or sharply contrasting colors. Most often, such decisions are determined by the desire to organically fit the house into the landscape of the surrounding area. The same paint or varnish can be used to emphasize the texture of the adjacent forest or garden. The approach to windows that Scandinavian houses are provided with is also interesting. The photo below shows a typical example of panoramic glazing. It is not a common solution even in Scandinavia, but it fully fits into the concept of abundant transmission of natural light. Traditional designs, at a minimum, involve the creation of large window openings, although this conflicts with the energy-saving function. Therefore, modern thick double-glazed windows are used to minimize heat loss.
Interior arrangement
The design of the interior space is quite restrained and may even seem strict. But this is rather the same craving for practical minimalism without much pretentiousness. Wall cladding is in progress paint and varnish materials, wood panels or tiles, which is less common. Usually the base wood base is preserved, which is treated with special varnishes. Color solutions are also oriented towards restraint and tranquility - preference is given to turquoise, light yellow and bluish shades. So that the interior of a Scandinavian house does not seem completely boring, it is diluted with various accessories and decorative elements. But it is important that every detail has its own meaning - for example, a heirloom. It can be family photos, hand-painted paintings, embroideries, etc.
Furniture items
Furniture should be ergonomic, functional and small sizes. As for manufacturing materials, there are no special restrictions in this choice. Of course, lovers of the classics can recommend wicker chairs and beds made from solid wood components, but such accents have little in common with the modern interpretation of the style. The main thing is practicality. Each object should require minimal maintenance and at the same time provide maximum benefits. At the same time, the furniture should stylistically fit into the interior of a Scandinavian-style home, without standing out in color or design. For contrast, only a slight hint of the playfulness of saturated colors is allowed, but no more. For example, a bright red sofa will most likely look out of place surrounded by light walls.
Design of the surrounding area
If strict conservatism reigns in the interior and layout, then the arrangement of the outdoor space gives complete freedom. It is not without reason that Scandinavian designers endow the building design with large openings, attics and verandas. All this gives a feeling of unity with nature. An obligatory component is the large porch, which was previously decorated with elaborate carvings, and today it is painted in the same calm tones. Scandinavian country houses rarely do without large, spacious plots. Shrubs and trees are planted on them, but in such a way that the crowns do not interfere with the access of light through large windows. An indispensable attribute of the garden is a pergola, complemented by a summer kitchen.
Implementation of engineering systems
If the use of natural building material in the form of wood has survived to this day due to the possibility of competition with stone, brick and composites, then in continuation of the old traditions of implementation engineering systems it makes no sense. A modern Scandinavian-style home does not exclude the use of high-tech boiler controls, ventilation systems and other equipment. Of course, there is a certain inconsistency in attempts to combine natural naturalness and electronic systems, but this compromise is required by demands for increasing energy-saving functions and maintaining thermal comfort.
Conclusion
If we break this style down into its individual components, it turns out that it simply has no unique features. In different variations, environmental friendliness, practicality and conservatism are implemented in eco-style, hi-tech and minimalism. However, Scandinavian houses can be distinguished by their flexibility in terms of adjustments to current fashions. The ideas of environmental friendliness and naturalness in themselves are not an end in themselves for this style. For a long time, these characteristics were formed due to prevailing circumstances. But today, under the influence of technological, ergonomic and economic changes, the basic principles of the Scandinavian approach to construction and arrangement are subject to adjustments.
