When one thinks of Scandinavian design and style the first thing that comes to mind is probably IKEA.

Although the big box store has done a great job at helping it become more mainstream, Scandinavian design is much more than just what one finds at IKEA.

Scandinavian design and style are a form of modernism. At the core of the Scandinavian design movement are the concepts of minimalism, functionalism and simplicity. The idea is incorporate both form and function for a marriage of beautiful home decor that is affordable and attainable.

There is also a focus on do-it-yourself ideas, and techniques for using natural materials, like wood, wool, linen and cotton. Patterns are important in Scandinavian design and often reference the natural world as well as ancient Nordic design motifs. It’s easy to see why people equate Scandinavian design with IKEA, because that all sounded like a description from an IKEA catalog!

Do-it-Yourself Scandinavian Design Projects

1.  Painted Dresser – take an old piece of wood furniture and some geometric painted accents to add some Scandinavian design to your home.
2. Minimalist Cube Shelf – make your Scandinavian style floating shelf on which to store your most prized tiny knickknacks to really show them off.
3. Paper Garland “Curtains” – use this tutorial to use hanging paper garlands as curtains to add some pretty and simple style to your windows.
4. DIY Balsa Wood Heart – just in time for Valentine’s Day, make your own simple heart decoration to spread the love around your home. This is so simple, it’s stunning!
5. Simple Stitched Table Runner – add some cross stitching to a table runner for a simple project to create a starry night table runner.
6. Colorful Stenciled Wall – this great project utilizes a stencil from Royal Design Studio to create a colorful and gorgeous random herringbone accent wall.
7. Paint by Number Wood Coasters – this project features Pennsylvania Dutch designs, but they are so reminiscent of Scandinavian motifs that they would work in your Scandinavian styled home as well.
8. DIY Pallet Bed – a pallet bed combines the simplicity, affordable and resourceful of Scandinavian design perfectly. Reuse and reduce!
9. Dip Dyed Baskets – dip dying baskets will add a bit of that rustic charm that is part of Scandinavian design. It’s also a really easy and inexpensive way to add some color to your decor.

Related on Ecosalon

Adding Folkloric Flourishes to Your Home Decor

Style Clash: Country Comfort Meets Simple Scandinavian

IKEA’s Glass Houses

Top Image: IKEA

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I lean toward the minimalist in all things design and I’m especially drawn to chairs of the modernist period. There’s nothing not to like, in my opinion, and there’s no need to alter any of the classics. That’s why they’re called classics.

But who could object to a softer seat?

Unless your bum is naturally buffered, a lengthy sit on Jacobsen’s 7 or Bertoia’s wire chairs might leave you with a slightly sore tush.

This might be what Parkhaus was considering when they launched Suit for 100 Classics, a collection of over 80 simple seat pads for 100 of the classic chair designs.

The pads are made using eco-friendly, 100% woolfelt fabric and come in two versions and a plethora of hip and slick colors. The simple version is just 5mm or 1/5 of an inch thick; the other is 16mm (almost ½”) and layered with a 10mm foam inlet for extra cushioning.

Another perk to the Parkhaus pads is they’ll protect your old chair from wear and tear and keep it looking better than new.

via if it’s hip, it’s here

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It’s hard to grasp the concept of investing in outdoor furniture in February, but winter is actually the best time to look. While many vendors put their collections on sale now, you should also keep an eye out for modern porch furniture that is always well priced. Loll Designs, billed for the “modern lollygagger” is far from lagging behind.

Minimal in stature like its namesake, the company’s new Napoleon Series of recycled all-weather furniture compensates for its size by going big in green design and comfort. Incorporating modern lines with country Adirondack appeal, the chairs, double benches and plank top tables don’t require the high maintenance of outdoor wood, which can be tiresome if you are seeking to avoid the gray, weathered patina from exposure to the elements.

This Duluth company goes really strong on color, offering its pieces in bold, happy shades that make a powerful statement outdoors. Vivid blue, green, red, brown, black and white – all pack a punch. You can order color samples from the site and also find out where the nicely priced furniture is sold in your area.

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