Creating Insta-worthy Interiors
For most of us, when we move into our homes, our living room is a blank white box. Sure, some may have crown mouldings, and some may have original hardwood floors, but essentially we are all beginning with a blank slate. And therein lies the beauty! From an empty white living room, you can create your own oasis.
We’ve spotted three popular design styles that we’re seeing on Instagram—desert chic, modern farmhouse, and Scandinavian industrial. Each style begins with a white backdrop. So whether you’re moving into a new home, or simply need a room refresh, we’ve curated specific elements to help you replicate the look and create your own insta-worthy interior!
SCANDINAVIAN INDUSTRIAL
This week we’ll delve into the crisp beauty of Scandinavian Industrial. Scandinavian design is a movement that flourished in the 1950s, and encompasses the minimalistic functionality embraced by the five Nordic countries of Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden. Industrial design refers to the practical production of products made for the masses—affordable staples that place the emphasis on function over form. (Ironically, the result is forms that are now highly sought after.)
The pairing of these two styles results in homes that are simple, clean, and unfussy. And best yet, they function as well as they look. We love this Scandinavian cottage, recently completed by HubbHouse, a Charlottesville, VA, husband and wife design/build team who is reimagining homes throughout the city. Andrea Hubbell is not only the designer with her husband Brian, but an agent with Nest Realty. (The home is currently listed for sale!)
STRICT COLOR PALETTE
Keeping the color palette predominantly white and black is a trademark of Scandi design. Touches of natural wood, metal, and greenery are generally the only exceptions.
The stark white cabinets, white backsplash, white walls, and ceiling are balanced by the warm butcher block on the center island. Andrea shares, “We love to incorporate materials into our kitchens that showcase the years of love that go into making and sharing meals. This Ash butcher block island top will patina beautifully over time, each chop mark serving as a reminder of all those great times spent together in the kitchen.”
In the first-floor master bathroom, the black and white feels clean, fresh, and invigorating. Tip: When space allows, pairs are powerful! By using a pair of matching black matte light fixtures and faucets, you’re doubling the impact. Delta Matte Black Trinsic Bathroom Faucet, $229.43, faucetdirect.com
BLACK FURNITURE
Black furniture set against a white backdrop offers high contrast and impact. The Hubbells chose black pieces for the console table, dining chairs, accessories, and side tables.
Similar to show, this Platner-style side table, Porter Wire Side Table, $299, potterybarn.com.
METAL WORK
This is where the industrial elements happen. In this HubbHouse, we’re seeing the use of metal on this stunning staircase created by Lauren Danley of Metal is Good, an incredible custom metalworker in Charlottesville, VA.
While the Hubbells used the industrial elements sparingly in this cottage, other common uses may include exposed beams or piping, raw wood elements, and fixtures created from metal piping.
STATEMENT LIGHTING
When it comes to Scandi design, getting the lighting right is paramount. Bold and oversized yet sleek and minimal.
The dining room light is visible from the front door, and sets the tone for the entire home. MCL-R3 Three-Arm Ceiling Lamp in Black, $365.00, franceandson.com
We dig this pair of sconces used to flank the master bed. Mantis BS5 Wall Sconce in Black, $145.oo, franceandson.com.
This black rattan light ticks all the boxes. Diamond Rattan Ceiling Light Black by Opalhouse™, $69.99, target.com
SWISS CROSS
While Switzerland is far from Sweden and the other four countries included in Scandinavian design, the Swiss cross has become a common design element seen in Scandi design.
Thought to come from the flag of Switzerland, the symmetrical cross is often seen in a monochromatic palette—a white cross on a black background, or a black cross on a white background.
The graphic pattern works well on rugs, throws, bed linens, and pillows, like this Mima Throw Pillow, $79.00, bluedot.com.
CLEAN LINES
Perhaps more than any other object, the pedestal table, or the “tulip table” is the most ubiquitous element of Scandinavian design.
Originally designed by Eero Saarinen for Knoll® in 1956, the Pedestal Table is highly desired for its clean lines and ability to fit into any space or style. While the authentic Saarinen Pedestal Table by Knoll will set you back upwards of $2,000, this Modway table has similar lines for less than 1/4th the price. Modway Lippa 60″ Table, $591.75, amazon.com.
The clean lines of these black chairs are simple and chic. Massey Solid Wood Chairs in Black, $279.99/set of 2, wayfair.com.
Do you love the bright, airy, light spaces that are a trademark of Scandinavian Industrial design? Show us how you use these elements in your home! #SOnesty