10 Distinct Classic Features of Modern Scandinavian Furniture Design

Modern Scandinavian furniture comes from the countries of Finland, Norway, Sweden, Denmark and Iceland. To help you know if you’re on the right path to creating your Scandinavian dream home, here’s a breakdown of the 10 distinct classic features of modern Scandinavian furniture design:  

The northern regions of Europe are characterized by colder climates and robust forests. Wood has always been a largely utilized material in Scandinavian furniture. 

Combinations of wood with other hardy materials such as metal and fiberglass make Scandinavian furniture some of the strongest and long-lasting furniture on the planet. 

Due to the agricultural background in Scandinavian countries, first-rate tools are readily available to make high-quality crafted furniture. 

Scandinavian furniture consists largely of specific materials and distinct tools natural to whichever region it originated from. Their appreciation for nature can be seen in the organic shapes and appearance of classic Scandinavian design.

Usefulness is a large part of Scandinavian furniture design. The climates in these areas and the differences in terrain, from flat to mountainous regions required practicality as a top priority. Some designs are even multi-functional, capable of being used for 2 - 3 different purposes. 

With a focus on the natural world, ergonomics also serve as a basis for Scandinavian furniture design. Being that human beings are a part of the natural world, the movements and contours of our bodies come into play as a factor in the design for exceptional comfort.

Unlike other legs and bases found in standard furniture design, many modern Scandinavian furnishings have distinct legs and bases. For example, most 4-legged bases have tapered and splayed legs. This type of leg style helps to evenly distribute weight, provides a more attractive appearance and represents the natural elegance of trees. Another type of leg, coined the L-Leg system, was created by a Finnish designer and architect. This system features a solid wood leg, laminated at one part and bent in a 90 degree angle at the top.

The word “rigidity” might not scream “comfort” when you hear it. However, rigidity in terms of Scandinavian furniture design is an acclaimed feature. In this sense, rigidity means solid and exact form. Over the years, modern Scandinavian furniture has included looser biomorphic shapes to its repertoire. It rarely strays from its elaborate and sculptural form.

Nearly all modern Scandinavian furniture designs follow a minimalist direction. Sustainability and its “less is more” mentality translates into the most distinctly Scandinavian favorites.

The most famous modern Scandinavian furniture designs were born from experimentation with different materials and inventive techniques to create them. Some of these include layered bentwood, molded fiberglass and the L-Leg system. 

Now that you’ve become more familiar with the basics of Scandinavian furniture design, you’ll have an easier time deciding which type of modern furniture is right for you!