To design a Scandi-inspired garden, prioritize simplicity, practicality, and natural materials. Sustainability plays a crucial role, emphasizing the use of recycled and organic elements within a subtle color scheme.
Relaxed Scandi aesthetics rank among the top backyard concepts, striking a perfect balance between function and beauty. In this garden style, every feature serves a purpose, resulting in a serene, uncluttered environment ideal for enjoying peaceful moments outdoors.
The good news is achieving this design isn't overly complicated. We consulted Scandinavian garden experts to guide us in transforming our outdoor areas.
Ornamental grasses are versatile plants in Scandi-inspired gardens
7 Elements for Crafting a Scandi-Style Garden
We've outlined the key principles for crafting a Scandi-style garden, allowing you to achieve this look while enjoying the numerous lifestyle benefits.
You'll soon be inspired to create a wellness space in your yard, a tranquil area designed to rejuvenate your mind and body.
1. Embrace Natural Design
Swedish family-owned Grythyttan Stålmöbler has been crafting outdoor furniture since 1930
Natural aesthetics are fundamental when designing a Scandi-style garden. The concept of 'friluftsliv' (open-air living) is central to Scandinavian life. Nordic gardens tend to be informal and relaxed, featuring free-form plantings instead of rigid flower beds. This approach avoids emphasizing manicured lawns or topiary.
According to landscape designer Annika Zetterman, 'In Scandinavia, being close to nature is viewed as a privilege, fostering a deep respect for the environment and how to nurture it.'
Explore ideas for wildflower gardens and prairie-style planting to achieve a blend of native flowers and delicate grasses that complement this aesthetic.
Annika Zetterman is a leading landscape designer in Scandinavia, known for her beautiful gardens infused with a love for nature. She authored the acclaimed book New Nordic Gardens.
2. Achieve a Calm, Uncluttered Appearance
A perfect blend of minimal landscaping and neutral tones
'A Scandi garden is an experience that evokes tranquility and ease,' notes garden designer Rosie Wilkins, who has Danish heritage. 'It's about creating purposeful spaces that connect people with their environment, rather than showcasing grandeur.'
The essence of 'less is more' is vital when considering a Scandi garden. But it goes beyond minimalism; it's about crafting a space that invites interaction and personality. Rosie explains, 'A Scandi garden is purposeful yet encourages playfulness and connection.' If you appreciate minimalist design and wish to transform your yard into a serene, Scandi-inspired retreat, seek out modern gardening ideas for inspiration.
Rosie Wilkins studied Landscape Architecture at the University of Sheffield and leads Rosie Wilkins Landscape Design. With a Danish mother, she draws significant inspiration from Scandinavian design.
3. Amplify Sensory Experiences
Colorful flowering plants and ornamental grasses enhance sensory engagement
In Scandinavian culture, gardens serve as escapes from everyday stress and support well-being. Creating an environment that stimulates the senses is essential.
Swedish landscape designer Mia Witham emphasizes, 'Sensory attributes are crucial in Scandinavian garden design, extending beyond fragrant plants.' She believes Swedish design is deeply rooted in natural elements like wood, stone, and clay.
These natural materials introduce varied textures, adding warmth to a space. 'Swedish design considers many factors,' Mia explains. 'This includes elements like wind on the skin, rain on a roof, dappled shade, fragrant plants, textured surfaces, wildlife sounds, and water.'
Mia Witham is an award-winning Swedish garden designer, leading Forma Landscapes. She has a passion for plants and draws inspiration from nature's diversity.
4. Choose a Simplified Color Scheme
Shades of gray are perfect for Scandi garden aesthetics
Utilizing natural tones is vital when crafting a Scandi-style garden. The traditional Scandinavian palette includes stark black, white, cream, gray, and earthy hues, creating a sense of closeness to nature.
Annika notes, 'Scandinavians appreciate light, which may explain our preference for lighter colors in design.' Gardens often reflect seasonal color schemes, with winter showcasing neutral tones like dead seed heads and brown bark.
This color philosophy applies to hardscaping and furniture as well. 'Opt for natural materials like wood and stone in subtle tones that harmonize with the landscape,' Rosie advises. 'Limit yourself to one or two materials and explore their various forms and finishes.'
Stone can be utilized for pathways, boulders, and gravel landscaping, while wood suits benches, walkways, and partitions. 'This method creates depth and interest while maintaining simplicity,' Rosie explains.
5. Select Furniture That Complements the Scandi Vibe
Functional, minimalist furniture is a hallmark of Scandi design
Applying the principles of clean lines and simplicity to furniture choices is essential in Scandi garden design. Select pieces that serve a function and integrate seamlessly into the natural environment. This approach will truly capture the Scandi aesthetic.
Design manager at a Scandinavian home furnishings retailer, Rikke Blaeside, explains, 'Danish design has always embraced minimalism, allowing for creative layering.' Choose furniture with a low profile and streamlined silhouettes to enhance the Scandi feel.
Rikke suggests opting for lightweight furniture that blends into the garden's atmosphere. Incorporate natural textures like wicker and linen to elevate the look, maintaining a calm and cool color palette.
Rikke is a design manager based in Denmark, specializing in Scandinavian home furnishings, with expertise in aesthetics and trend analysis.
6. Establish Inviting Lighting
Enhance the lighting by layering different types at various heights, like indoors
Thoughtful lighting plays a key role in achieving a Scandi-style garden ambiance after sunset. Utilize a combination of festoon lights, lanterns, solar lamps, and candles to create a warm and welcoming glow throughout the space.
Annika suggests, 'Successful lighting composition involves leaving some areas dark. Balancing illuminated sections with shadows fosters a tranquil harmony.'
Illuminate pathways, patios, and pergolas to highlight key elements in the garden. A fire pit adds atmosphere and embodies the cozy concept of hygge.
7. Prioritize Environmental Stewardship
Source natural materials locally for hardscaping projects
Create a garden that harmonizes with nature, enhancing both its beauty and ecological value. 'I favor natural materials over synthetic ones, often using clay pavers, boulders, and timber alongside diverse plants to create dynamic environments that evolve with the seasons,' Mia shares.
'Lagom'—a Swedish term meaning 'just right'—embodies a sustainable lifestyle. It encourages using natural materials like wood and stone while investing in quality, avoiding plastics, and embracing reuse and recycling.
Rosie emphasizes, 'Scandi design values sustainability and a light environmental impact.' Choose local, sustainable materials that weather gracefully. Consider adding features like rainwater collection, composting, and raised vegetable beds for a classic Scandi twist.
