Nature in Scandinavian Design: Embracing Organic Forms and Materials

Renowned for its balance of form, functionality, and a deep respect for nature, Scandinavian design has shaped interiors and architecture worldwide. This design ethos, marked by clean lines, natural materials, and an emphasis on sustainability, creates spaces that feel open, inviting, and intimately connected to the natural world. From early pioneers like Bruno Mathsson to contemporary innovators, Scandinavian design remains a testament to simplicity, comfort, and enduring style, blending timeless aesthetics with modern living.

Nature-Inspired Aesthetics

Since the early 20th century, Scandinavian design has evolved into a globally recognized style, known for its functional minimalism and a deep respect for natural materials. Principally gaining inspiration from all aspects of the natural world, sustainability and shapes uninhibited by structure are crucial to this design ethos – applied to everything from furniture colors and architecture to the objects we use on a daily basis.

Embracing Natural Materials

Materials that highlight the beauty of nature, texture and the feeling of ‘hygge’ that Scandinavia has become so famous for, lie at the heart of the Scandinavian approach to design. Sleek, light woods bringing an airy feel to a room are the materials most synonymous with Scandinavian design, and natural origin is paramount. Birch and pine make the ideal crafting materials, along with naturally occuring textiles, such as wool or linen. Stone finishes using granite and slate are also frequently used to bring warmth and durability to a space.

Minimalism and Functionality

Minimalism is central to Scandinavian design, with an emphasis on the Swedish philosophy of ‘lagom,’ which encourages balance and moderation. Clean lines, neutral colors, and purposeful spaces create environments that feel peaceful and spacious.

Clean lines and elegant form, famously exhibited in the work of Danish designers such as Hans J. Wegner, make up some of the central pillars of Scandi design. Harmony is created within spaces by using complementary neutral shades; primarily whites, grays and pastels. The aim is to bring forth a feeling of light even in the darkest of seasons, while crafting a tranquil-feeling environment free of clutter.

The cornerstone of all Scandinavian designs is functionality blended with form. Pieces should add value either decoratively or practically, with spaces feeling instantly livable. Comfort through clever ergonomics, comprising intuitive motion and the right support, means Scandinavian design is a treat to view as well as experience.

Biophilic Design and Sustainability

Creating functional environments where nature and human beings can exist in harmony is a design principle long adhered to by Scandinavian designers. There is a deep cultural respect for nature, know as “friluftsliv” (open-air living), which propels Scandinavian design towards being biophilic – where spaces are designed for as much connection with the natural environment as possible, for optimal mental wellbeing. Ideally, this would partner seamlessly with long-term sustainability, with as much natural light as possible for energy efficiency, the use of natural, sustainably-sourced materials and plenty of greenery.

Notable examples showcasing an impeccable interlinking of biophilia and sustainability include the Royal Danish Opera House with its advanced technologies to reduce energy consumption, and glass-focused design, bringing light, sky and sea together effectively. Sweden’s famous Treehotel is a feat in ecological design – with accommodations that exist within the forest as if they had grown alongside the trees naturally, built with sustainable materials and powered by hydroelectricity.

Early Pioneers of Scandinavian Design

Design trailblazers Bruno Mathsson and Kaare Klint laid the foundations for Scandinavian design as it exists today. Both furniture designers and architects with a talent for ergonomic, highly functional pieces, they influenced the modernist movement profoundly from the 1930s.

Swedish designer Mathsson was fascinated by the dynamic between the human body and the framework of furniture. His designs were lightweight and durable, fully embracing the power of ergonomics with his renowned ‘vilstolen’ chair. Made from a laminated and bent birch frame, the chair adapted to the position of the sitting body perfectly. Klint, a leader in Danish furniture design, also took inspiration from his study of human anatomy. His ‘Safari’ and ‘Faaborg’ chairs are stunning examples of proportional design, and are still reinterpreted and sold today.

Børge Mogensen and Finn Juhl were also instrumental in shaping Scandinavian modernism, focusing on simplicity and practicality. Their work emphasized furniture that was both accessible and elegantly crafted.

Mid-Century Masters of Scandinavian Design

When it came to capturing the zeitgeist of a movement towards modernist functionality and a minimalist aesthetic, these Scandinavian designers set the benchmark. Finnish architect Alvar Aalto, along with Danish designers Arne Jacobsen and Hans J. Wegner, contributed significantly to modernist furniture design from the ‘30s up until the 1970s.

Aalto was adept at interweaving nature and ergonomics, using natural materials like plywood to make his iconic furniture pieces. His architectural background lent itself to blending function with organic form, and in 1935 he established his homeware brand Artek, which is still a leader in timeless, modern design.

Created by Arne Jacobsen in 1958, the ‘egg’ chair is another example of minimalist design that has stood the test of time. Sculpted for maximum comfort with an enveloping shape, it has been reproduced the world over. In the same vein, Hans J. Wegner’s incredible craftsmanship gave him world-renowned status as a master of chair design. His legendary ‘wishbone’ chair was his biggest commercial success, famed for its elegance and Y-shaped backrest.

Contemporary Visionaries of Scandinavian Design

The central essence of Scandinavian design continues to influence designers across the board, with the baton being passed to contemporary innovators with their own distinctive approaches. Take British designer Illse Crawford – her inviting designs, using textured natural materials, are all about creating a space for joyful living. She has partnered numerous times with Swedish powerhouse IKEA, creating sustainable home accessories in line with the Scandi vision.

Playful yet practical expression is the raison d’être of French Designer Inga Sempé. Devising her pieces with adaptability and modern living in mind, an easy user experience is always the priority. Her Ruché sofa designs for French brand Ligne Roset are undulated for a welcoming feel, with a quilted fabric that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Swedish architect Thomas Sandell, co-founder of multidisciplinary studio Sandellsandberg, makes his furniture design look effortless. Inspired by Finnish master Alvar Aalto, his building projects and interiors pieces wholly encompass the Scandinavian predilection towards minimalism and a harmonious co-existence with the surrounding environment.

Notable Factories and Manufacturing Traditions in Scandinavian Design

From inspired collaborations to manufacturers that have successfully captured the imagination of contemporary design lovers, here are the companies that have played a key role in shaping Scandi design:

Fritz Hansen

Wholly encompassing Scandinavian design principles, this Danish furniture company was established by cabinetmaker Fritz Hansen in 1872. Famed for their carefully selected collaborations with leading designers, including Arne Jacobsen and Poul Kjærholm, some of their most notable pieces include the ‘Egg’ and sleek ‘PK22’ chairs.

Georg Jensen

Minimalism, functionality and nature-inspired shapes make Georg Jensen one of the most influential crafters within Scandi design. The Danish brand is world-renowned for their exquisitely crafted jewelry, tableware and home accessories, combining traditional techniques with high-quality materials such as sterling silver and gold.

Iittala

Well-thought out collaborations are king once more at prestigious Finnish brand, Iittala. Founded in 1881, their creative beginnings were in glassware, before moving into striking tableware. Alvar Aalto collaborated with the brand to design the classic ‘Aalto’ vase, with its flowing form inspired by Finnish landscapes, while Taj Franck’s ‘Teema’ dinnerware with its geometric shapes and clean lines is still in production today.

Marimekko

Established in 1951, Finnish design house Marimekko reflects Scandinavian design’s reverence for nature within its sustainable practices and use of eco-friendly materials. Their clothing, accessories and home decor are recognisable by their bold prints – including their synonymous ‘Unikko’ poppy print – and textiles inspired by nature and Finnish folklore.

Exploring Scandinavian Design Today

Whether furniture, textiles or iconic architecture, the global influence of Scandinavian design is undeniable. For an overview of both historic and contemporary Scandinavian design, it’s hard to beat museums or galleries, so keep an eye out for relevant exhibitions. Online platforms focusing on design innovation, such as Dezeen, are also handy resources. Simply searching for Scandinavian design studios online will bring up an array of diverse, contemporary creators – including Cecilie Manz, the acclaimed Acne Studios, Séfr and Tekla.