If you have any social media accounts whatsoever, I can guarantee you’ve stumbled across some form of Scandinavian content in the past year. What started as a fascination with internet It-Girl Matilda Djerf has spiraled into an infatuation with anything and everything Scandinavian. From Scandi hairlines and Nordic style to embracing hygge in the winter months and the entirety of TikTok trying Swedish candy, the Scandi obsession is real.
In 2024, Scandinavian style continues to reign over our closets and hair, and now it’s making its way into our homes with a cozy, earthy twist. A 2024 trend report from IKEA predicted Scandinavian folklore, an interior design aesthetic inspired by Sweden at the beginning of the 20th century, will dominate homes this year. Read on to learn more about the trend and how to get the look in your home.
What Is Scandinavian Folklore?
You might be familiar with the sleek minimalism typically associated with Scandinavian interior design, but this trend takes a more traditional approach. While modern Scandi style emphasizes clean lines and functionality, Scandinavian folklore focuses on creating a cozy, natural home. Think of the warm, welcoming energy of cottagecore combined with the rustic simplicity of Scandinavian decor. According to the IKEA report, home is 51 percent of people’s favorite place to be, and this trend is all about making your space feel inviting and comforting. The Scandinavian folklore aesthetic encourages you to create a space where not only you feel at home but your guests and loved ones do, too.
How to Incorporate the Look in Your Home
Now that you’re familiar with Scandinavian folklore decor, I’m sure you’re wondering how to get the look in your own space. Don’t worry—we have all the tips (and links) you need to turn your home into the ultimate Scandinavian sanctuary.
1. Opt for natural materials and tones
While we’ve all been loving Barbiecore and girly decor lately, now is not the time to whip out your hot pink accessories and bows. Instead, look for decor pieces with natural colors such as earthy greens, burnt reds (hello, unexpected red theory!), soft yellows, and blues. These muted tones will bring pops of color into your space while still adhering to the cozy, nature-inspired theme. Pair these earth tones with natural materials like rattan, wood, and stone to create an inviting environment that perfectly encapsulates Scandinavian folklore.
2. Keep it cozy
Comfortability is key to Scandinavian folklore. The goal is to create the kind of home where you and your guests feel perfectly welcome to grab a throw blanket and plop down on the couch with your feet resting on the coffee table. To achieve that lived-in atmosphere without veering too far towards cluttered, fill your space with plenty of pillows, throws, and soft rugs. Patterns like ticking stripes, plaids, floral prints, or embroidered designs will feel especially fitting. Look for pieces with a vintage feel, and don’t be afraid to mix and match patterns for a space that looks like it has a story to tell.
3. Focus on rustic furniture
The Scandinavian folklore trend draws inspiration from the early 1900s, so you don’t want furniture that looks like it was built in the same year Taylor and Travis started dating. Instead, look for pieces with an antique look or a distressed finish to add character to a room. Basically, you want furniture that looks like it’s been used and loved for decades. Rustic pieces that don’t look too precious will help you create a homey atmosphere that invites everyone to pull up a seat and make themselves comfortable. This relaxed, hospitable energy is at the heart of Scandinavian folklore, and simple, well-loved furniture communicates that sentiment towards guests.
Our Scandinavian Folklore Decor Picks
