Functional and Beautiful Modern Scandinavian Houses that Maximize Space

Contemporary Scandinavian houses are known for their sleek and minimalist aesthetic, which has made them a popular choice among homeowners around the world. From Denmark, Sweden, and Norway, these houses draw inspiration from the region’s natural surroundings and embrace the concept of “lagom,” a Swedish term meaning “just the right amount.”

In addition to their attractive appearance, modern Scandinavian houses are also notable for their efficient use of space and functionality. This article will be exploring the unique design elements and space-saving features of a modern Scandinavian home plan, and discuss why they continue to be a popular choice for homeowners.

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Explaining the Concept of “Lagom”

The concept of “lagom” is central to Scandinavian design and is reflected in the efficient use of space in modern Scandinavian houses. As noted earlier, “lagom” translates to “just the right amount” in Swedish, and it refers to the idea of finding balance and moderation in all aspects of life.

In the context of design, “lagom” means creating spaces that are neither too big nor too small, and using only the necessary amount of furniture and decor. This approach helps to create a sense of calm and order, and it also makes the most of available space.

In modern Scandinavian house plans, the use of multifunctional furniture is a common way to achieve “lagom.” For example, a Murphy bed can be tucked away during the day to create a home office or a playroom, and then pulled down at night to provide a comfortable sleeping area.

Similarly, a fold-down table or a wall-mounted desk can be used to create a workspace when needed, and then tucked away when not in use. By using furniture that serves multiple purposes, these types of houses are able to maximize the functionality of each room.

Another way that modern Scandinavian houses achieve “lagom” is through the use of clever storage solutions. Built-in shelves, under-stair storage, and other hidden compartments allow homeowners to keep their belongings organized and out of sight, creating a clean and uncluttered look. This is particularly important in smaller homes, where every inch of space counts.

Some Space-saving Features in modern Scandinavian Houses

Contemporary Scandinavian houses are known for their use of space-saving features that make the most of the available square footage. Here are some examples:

Multifunctional Furniture

As mentioned earlier, houses of this type often use furniture that serves multiple purposes, such as Murphy beds and fold-down tables. This allows homeowners to make the most of each room and adapt to changing needs.

Clever Storage Solutions

In order to achieve the clean and uncluttered look that is characteristic of Scandinavian design, modern houses in the region often incorporate a variety of storage solutions. Built-in shelves, under-stair storage, and hidden compartments are all common features that help to keep things organized and out of sight.

Use of Natural Light

A modern Scandinavian house is known for its large windows, which allow natural light to flood into the interior. This not only creates an open and airy feel, but it also helps to save energy, as natural light reduces the need for artificial lighting during the day.

Incorporation of Outdoor Spaces

Many modern houses of Scandinavian design feature balconies, terraces, or other outdoor spaces that can be used for relaxation or entertaining. These spaces are often integrated into the overall design of the house, making them feel like an extension of the indoor living area.

By incorporating these space-saving features, modern Scandinavian houses are able to make the most of the available square footage and create comfortable and functional living spaces.

Attractive Features of Modern Scandinavian Houses

In addition to their functionality and efficient use of space, contemporary Scandinavian houses are also notable for their aesthetic appeal. The following are some key elements that contribute to the unique look and feel of this style of building:

Clean and Uncluttered Look

The minimalist aesthetic of current Scandinavian houses is achieved through the use of neutral colors and minimal decor. This creates a sense of calm and order, and allows the architectural features of the house to take center stage.

Use of Natural Materials

Wood, stone, and other natural materials are commonly used in these Scandinavian houses to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. These materials add texture and depth to the interior, and they also help to create a connection to the natural surroundings.

Geometric Shapes and Lines

Many modern Scandinavian houses often feature clean lines, geometric shapes, and a strong sense of symmetry. This creates a sense of balance and harmony, and adds visual interest to the overall design.

modern scandinavian house porch
modern scandinavian house interior
modern scandinavian houses

Finding Design Ideas for Modern Scandinavian House Plans

For anyone looking for inspiration for their modern Scandinavian house design, there are a few sources that can provide some inspiration. Let’s quickly look at some of these sources.

Scandinavian Architecture

What other place can provide the best sources of inspiration than the location from which the house designs originated from? Since we are looking at modern Scandinavian houses, it’s only sensible that you start looking for ideas by exploring the architecture and interiors of this region, which includes Denmark, Sweden, and Norway. This way, you can get a sense of what defines modern Scandinavian design.

While the above can be done wholly online, if you have the opportunity, consider visiting these Scandinavian countries and experiencing the design aesthetic firsthand. This can be a great way to get a feel for the region’s unique design style and gather ideas for your own house design in ways that you cannot online.

Design Magazines and Books

There are many design magazines and books dedicated to Scandinavian design, which can be a great source of inspiration. Look for publications that feature modern houses and interiors, and take note of the elements that catch your eye.

Design Bloggers and Influencers

There are many bloggers and influencers who specialize in Scandinavian design and share their ideas and inspiration online. Follow them on social media or subscribe to their blogs to get a regular dose of Scandinavian design inspiration. This will include visiting museums and design galleries, or browse online resources such as design blogs and websites.

Work with Professional Designers

Professional designers can easily understand designs from different regions and how to create variations of these designs while maintaining their core features. Talking with an architect or designer can provide you with a palette of ideas from which you can choose one that fits your needs the best.

Experiment with Design Tools

If you are bent on doing it yourself, (this may not be the best approach), there are many online design tools and software programs that can help you create and visualize your modern Scandinavian house design. These tools can be a great way to experiment with different layouts, materials, and decor, and see how they work together.

Regardless of how or where you get your inspiration, you should remember that Scandinavian modern house plans must have certain key features for it to qualify as a Scandinavian modern house.

Modern scandinavian houses front facade
modern scandinavian houses elevation

A Summary of the Key Features of Scandinavian Modern Houses to Note

As a way of reminding you of these key features that will indeed make your home meet the Scandinavian modern style, we’ll quickly discuss them below.

Remember the Concept of “Lagom”

As we’ve shown in detail above, this concept is central to Scandinavian design. When creating your modern Scandinavian house plans, consider how you can achieve balance and moderation in your layout, materials, and decor.

Make Use of Natural Materials

Wood, stone, and other natural materials are commonly used in contemporary Scandinavian houses to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. These materials add texture and depth to the interior, and they also help to create a connection to the natural surroundings.

Large Windows are a Must

A lot of new Scandinavian houses are known for their large windows, which allow natural light to flood into the interior. This not only creates an open and airy feel, but it also helps to save energy, as natural light reduces the need for artificial lighting during the day.

Outdoor Spaces are Part of the Plan

Balconies, terraces, or other outdoor spaces that can be used for relaxation or entertaining are a common feature with contemporary Scandinavian designs. These spaces are often integrated into the overall design of the house, making them feel like an extension of the indoor living area.

Less is More – Keep it Simple

Referring to this type of house as a minimalist modern Scandinavian house will not be far from the truth. The design is characterized by its sleek and minimalist aesthetic. When designing your house, consider using a limited color palette and minimal decor to create a clean and uncluttered look.

Conclusion

We’ve taken some time to discuss in some detail important features that distinguish the modern Scandinavian architecture from other house designs. Choosing this building style offers a lot of benefits which you may be interested in taking advantage of. If this is the case, we’ve provided enough information to help you get started.

Whatever your building plans, it’s always best that you work with professionals to help you actualize your vision in good time and within your budget.