You mention Scandi (Scandinavian) style a lot in your content, what exactly is Scandi style?
A: Scandinavian design focuses on creating light, airy, and welcoming spaces that enhance comfort and well-being. The style celebrates a minimalist aesthetic, while functionality lies at the core of its design with clean lines, uncluttered spaces and natural materials. 

Also known as ‘Scandi’, this style gained prominence in the early 20th century in the Nordic countries of Sweden, Denmark and Finland before becoming a global phenomenon as a result of its timeless appeal, practicality and ability to create a sense of calm and serenity in any home. 

What are the key elements of Scandi style?
A: Central to the Scandi design style is the concept of ‘Hygge’. Hygge is a Danish term that ever-so-loosely translates to a sense of comfort, contentment and calmness. Applying this to the design style, Scandi is about creating warm and inviting atmospheres (aka spaces) that create a sense of relaxation to those within.
 
Hygge is not just about physical comfort but also about fostering a sense of togetherness and well-being, making the home a sanctuary from the outside world. This is something that our society naturally shifted into throughout years of the pandemic, with laws and regulations forcing an increase in the time we spend at our homes. Naturally, this saw people investing in their own home with an effort to feel more comfortable in the spaces as they would be forced to spend more time there with their family and close friends - more dinner parties, BBQs and home coffees (or maybe that was just us…). 

Hygge is the concept that underpins Scandi style, but it also is made up of the following elements;

1. Functionality is key
a. With functionality at the forefront, where possible, Scandi design always looks to incorporate furniture and decor that takes into consideration multifunctionality. Bedside tables that can be used as coffee tables or ottomans that can be used across bedrooms and/or living spaces.

2. Subtle colours create serenity
a. The Scandinavian colour palette is known for its subtlety and restraint, favouring neutral tones that create a calm, serene atmosphere. 
b. Whites, soft greys, muted blues, and earthy beiges dominate, providing a light and airy backdrop that reflects natural light and opens up space. The beautiful thing about this design style is that it boasts a very sophisticated colour palette with the above muted tones often complimented by pops of black and natural materials to add a peaceful contrast and depth without overwhelming the aesthetic. 

3. Texture, texture texture!
a. Texture plays a significant role in Scandi design, adding visual interest and tactile warmth to the minimalist framework. Natural textiles like wool, linen, and cotton are common amongst Scandi-designed spaces, often in the form of cosy throws, cushions, and rugs that soften hard surfaces and enhance comfort. The texture of natural and stained timber, whether in furniture or flooring, also adds warmth and a natural feel to the interiors.

What are the key elements of Scandi style?
A: Flooring is such an important component of Scandi design, creating the base of any space. 

Wood flooring is among the most popular options for Scandi interiors, particularly light-coloured woods such as ash, pine, or oak, which help to create a bright, airy atmosphere. On our recent trip to Sweden and Denmark, timber flooring that we saw was often treated to highlight its natural grain and texture, adding a rustic yet refined element to the home. 

Carpet Court provides a wide array of flooring solutions that help create the perfect base of any Scandi inspired spaces. Our top picks are some of the larger-format floorboards, particularly the Refined Oak in Sterling (190mm wide) and the Korlok in Baltic Washed Oak (225mm wide). Catering to all renovation and home budgets, we’ve actually used a laminate solution in our home renovation - opting for the Enchantment Plus in Powder Oak for its hardwearing nature while the elegant matte finish and micro bevelled edge, create the appearance of natural timber at a fraction of the price.

How can rugs contribute to a Scandi atmosphere?
A: We’re a huge fan of rugs to soften a space, particularly when timber flooring is used. Scandi-inspired spaces typically use rugs that incorporate neutral tones and are made of natural materials, such as wool or jute, to maintain the minimalist aesthetic. 

Our top picks from Carpet Court’s range include the Harlow Jute Rug in Natural as it adds an element of understated sophistication through its hand-loomed craftsmanship while making a space feel relaxed and inviting. Finally, we absolutely love the Travertine from Darren Palmer’s collection in silver - made from 100% wool, it’s a perfect option for any Scandi space due to its high stain resistance. 

Anyone who watched us on the 19th season of The Block will know how much we love the Scandi way of design - particularly when paired harmoniously with the Japanese design elements. We hope you love it too!