Get inspired with these folk art finds to create a magical folkloric hideaway.

In case you are wondering just what we mean, today’s folkloric decor and design is inspired by primitive art styles of Scandinavia, Mexico, Peru, and other countries and cultures of the world. It’s an appreciation for the timeless and simple aesthetics of primitive folk art. And primitive is not intended as a pejorative, but instead denotes the difference between the arts and crafts. Primitive folk art by definition is the culture of the peoples of a region.

So, if you like the homey style of primitive folk art, here are some fabulous folkloric finds you can add to your own home.

Folk Art Finds for Your Home

1. Folkloric Forest Wallpaper from Anthropologie

We love this Hygge & West wallpaper that depicts the flora and fauna of the forest. It’s available in three different colorways–red, neutral, or turquoise. Go big and cover your walls in folkloric splendor.

2. Awesome Project Ceramics

Add a touch of Romanian folklore to your tabletop with these stunning porcelain pieces from artist Madalina Andronic. All the pieces are designed and hand-decorated individually, using porcelain and love.

3. Enameled Coffee/Tea Set from Wild & Wolf

Add this wonderful enamelware from Wild & Wolf to your collection featuring wonderfully illustrated woodland creatures peeking through an enchanted woodland. What a perfect addition for your next brunch.

4. Locust Wall Hanging from Urban Outfitters

Add some simple folk art inspiration with this soft cotton tapestry that could work as a wall hanging or bed or sofa covering.

5. Scandinavian Folk Art Bird Print from Illustrationpop

The easiest way to add folk art style to your home is with the addition of art prints like this Scandinavian bird print.

6. Sagaform Story Tea Towel from Huset

Incorporate the folk art style to your kitchen with this black and white tea towel inspired by the world of the Norse sagas.

7. Woolen Blanket from Koromiko

Add some primitive folk art warmth with this handwoven blanket made from natural wool in soft cream with black embroidery. It’s hand-loomed in Central Mexico using the highest quality wool from sheep herded in the mountains. It’s then embroidered with simple folk art designs.

8. Wooden Dala Horse from Swedishdalahorse

Add hand carved and hand painted Swedish Dala horses to your home for that Swedish folkloric touch. The are made with sustainable wood and hand painted with eco-friendly paints.

9. Bear Pillow from Frydendahl

Cover your throw pillows with these Scandinavian-inspired screen printed bear pillow covers to add some folkloric style to your couch.

Related on EcoSalon

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Image: Breakfast Modern Table via Shutterstock

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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

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IKEA’s Glass Houses

Top Image: IKEA

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The folkloric design trend is in full swing—from Scandinavian-inspired embroidered pillows to Ikat-printed textiles, folkloric designs and themes are on trend.

Just what is folkloric exactly? According to dictionary.com, folklore is “the traditional beliefs, legends, customs, etc., of a people” (folklore is the noun and folkloric is the adjective).  So folkloric design is one way in which those traditional beliefs, customs and legends have been transmitted—it’s the representation of the culture via produced goods. Along with the oral and written tradition, creating arts and crafts has been a mainstay in transmitting the culture of a many peoples. And this artistic transmission of culture is a beautiful way to celebrate home, no matter where you are in the world. 

Today folkloric design encompasses an additional layer as designers are drawn to and inspired by primitive and folksy designs of cultures around the world in their own designs. It’s not uncommon to see folkloric inspired designs while shopping at Anthropologie, Pottery Barn, Etsy and others.

It’s important to note that the description “primitive” isn’t meant as an insult, but is used as a descriptive word that signifies the difference between low art (the crafts of the people) as opposed to high art (fine art). It’s the difference between culture with a “c” and Culture with a “C”. High art has often been what’s revered and coveted, but with folkloric designs becoming more popular that trend just may be waning.

So, if you like the primitive, folksy and homey feel of folkloric designs and want to add more to your home, here are 7 great folkloric pieces you can add to your own home.

1. Folk Art Letterpress Coaster Set

Image: pressbound

Protect your coffee table from rings and show off some folkloric style; this is a quick and easy way to add a bit of style.

2. Handprinted Folk Art Veggie Tea Towel

Image: ChestnutStreetStudio

Even drying dishes can be stylish! Or you can just use these for drying hands and save paper towels for real messes (and make these last longer).

3. Dala Horse Screen printed Pint Glasses

Image: vital

Dala horses are traditional Swedish carved and painted wooden horse statue and figurines. Try them adding them in a non-traditional way, like with a more formal tabletop.

4. Giclée print “Deva or Maiden”

Image: anyapany

This illustrated print of a Deva (a maiden turned into a bird by a magic spell) is stunning, and would add a strong graphic element to any room.

5. Hand Painted Folkloric Chotchkies 

Image: TheLewisKingsleyCo

Inspired by folkloric designs, these handpainted wooden knickknacks would look really cool on a mantle or nestled between books on a shelf.

6. Folklore Cups and Saucers

Image: Ninainvorm

And for something a little more practical, these vintage cups and saucers are perfect for that morning (wee) cup of joe.

7. Traditional Romanian Handwoven Rustic Pillow Cover

Image: folklorelove

This pillow cover is made from a Romanian handwoven and hand embroidered vintage textile and features a folkloric geometric design.

Top Image: OLMstudio

Related on Ecosalon:

7 Modern Ikat and Tie-dye Home Decor Prints without A Hint of Hippie

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Clean, ethical and progressive fashion from the north that has its sights set on creating a sustainable industry.  

Scandinavia – that obscure northern region home to beautiful blondes, mysterious folklore and long, cold nights – is also the origin of some of the most innovative fashion designers of our time. Based in cultures that have always had a deep connection to the nature that surrounds and sustains them, respect for the environment shines through as a key factor, whether with the use of natural materials, recycling or intelligent design. Due to harsh living conditions and short growing seasons, traditions and practices of re-use, maximum throughput, and efficient implementation, have carried through to the modern day, as is evident from these designers’ work.

With a mindful and artistic approach that transcends the supposed disconnection from other fashionable nations, Scandinavia has created a sought after and highly revered design aesthetic all of its own. The eight fashion designers and labels we’ve chosen to feature are style savvy and original, forging their own sustainable and successful fashion paths in a world where marketability and points of sale have become the main focus for the supposedly “artistic” fashion industry.

1. Anja Hynynen

Anja Hynynen is a Swedish-Finnish designer and artisan committed to the use of organic textiles and handcrafting. “Being fascinated by the story that leads to our clothes and the story we create them with, I wish the clothes [I make] to have a good story to tell – from seed to finished garment.” Anja often works directly with the farmers, spinners and weavers that make her textiles. She uses an old-fashioned wood-fired barrel for natural dyeing, and experiments with low-impact processes and textile printing methods. The result is a unique collection of handmade, timeless designs that embody the purity and natural beauty of Nordic aesthetics.

2. Minna Hepburn

Finnish designer Minna Hepburn is based in the UK, where she creates ethereal collections of sheer dresses, flouncy tops and dreamy bridal wear. Her designs are made out of organic, recycled and locally produced textiles, employing sustainable production techniques such as hand embellishment, local manufacturing and zero waste pattern cutting for each garment. Minna is dedicated to maintaining an ethical and environmentally friendly brand, constantly searching for new ways to minimize her impact while still offering gorgeous clothing. Her latest bridal collection is entirely handmade in her London studio, and is the pure definition of delicate, vintage elegance.

3. NUDIE 

Nudie is a jeans and casual wear label founded in Gothenburg, Sweden in 2001. With a strong commitment to ethical labor standards and minimal environmental impact, Nudie is one of the most responsible jeans manufacturers on the market today. The label prides itself on its passion for denim as a versatile material that improves with age. Nudie offers a wide selection of organic cotton denim for both men and women, alongside sweaters, shirts, tees and even underwear made from organic textiles that are made in Italy. They even offer low-impact dyed colored denims.

4. NURMI

Anniina Nurmi is a Finnish designer dedicated to quality clothing and durable design. Her collections echo the fusion of minimalism and functionality found in the work of several compatriot furniture designers with garments that are practical and designed to fit many body shapes. A focus on sustainability is inherent through Anniina’s use of organic cotton, hemp and recycled textiles alongside a commitment to transparency through local, ethical and monitored production. Nurmi collections comprise everyday basics that are versatile and timeless, and the label has recently offered up a range of jeans made from 55 percent hemp, 45 percent organic cotton blend.

5. Swedish Hasbeens

Inspired by a collection of ’70s clogs found in a old basement in Sweden, Swedish Hasbeens loves to re-create retro shoes, bags and belt styles for the modern market. Committed to quality and environmental manufacturing, the label uses ecological natural grain leather and the finest alder and lime wood to achieve the best finish on all their products. Assuring that production methods are kind to nature and to people, all Swedish Hasbeens shoes are made by hand in small factories by skilled Swedish artisans. Ethical, environmental, durable and outrageously cool, what’s not to love? As the label says: “even Sarah Jessica Parker has now switched from her Manolos.”

6. Trash Couture

As a pioneer of ethical, high-end and couture fashion, Trash Couture is redefining upcycling by creating gorgeously breathtaking gowns, cocktail dresses, and bridal wear. Ann Wiberg and Nanna Lowe are the fueling force behind the label, utilizing leftover fabrics like off-cut natural silks and vintage laces from famed couture houses to design unique and limited edition garments. The entire collection is hand-sewn and embellished at the label’s Copenhagen atelier, ensuring fair and monitored working conditions, minimal material waste and elimination of excess production. The label’s stunning and practically otherworldly gowns, dresses and corsets have gained a strong following that has attracted the likes of celebrities and even royalty.

7. V Ave Shoe Repair

Probably the most avant-garde label on this list, V Ave Shoe Repair blends ubiquitous Swedish style with artistic handcrafting and cutting-edge technology like 3D printing. The minimalistic aesthetic and skilled use of various textiles result in tailored, expertly draped garments that have made their way to the runways and high fashion boutiques around the world. All V Ave Shoe Repair items are handmade in their Stockholm atelier under the supervision of co-founder Astrid Olsson, ensuring fair labor processes and high quality, monitored end products.

8. Zion Clothing

Zion Clothing is one of Sweden’s emerging street style brands, but one that definitely stands out for its sustainable practices and processes. The label uses organic cotton, fair labor and water-based dyes that are free of heavy metals for the production of all garments. Investment in sustainable and environmental schemes is also part of the label’s philosophy, which is evident through their support of a Tanzanian tree-planting initiative for reducing carbon in the atmosphere.

Images: Anja Hynynen, Minna Hepburn, Nudie, NURMI, Swedish Hasbeens, Trash Couture, V Ave Shoe Repair, Zion Clothing

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The Scandinavian spirit aquavit isn’t just for pickled herring and potatoes anymore.

Simple and clean are words often used to describe Scandinavian design, but it also goes for Scandinavian drink, particularly aquavit. Say the word “schnapps” and you might immediately conjure up visions of a sugary, peppermint-infused hot chocolate drink, but in Scandinavia, snaps is something completely different, and it’s hitting the United States.

Snaps is the name for a shot of strong alcohol consumed in conjunction with a large meal, traditionally at holidays like Christmas and Midsummer – think big dinner parties fueled by frequent shots of a slightly herbal drink – and the alcohol in question is aquavit. Until recently, aquavit was relatively unknown in the US; the kind of thing you were only familiar with if you threw down during a midsummer celebration with a few Swedes. 

Aquavit is a neutral spirit that’s flavored with herbs indicative of Scandinavian cuisine; profiles like caraway, dill and anise. And you thought fennel was just for hip farm-to-table restaurants.

In the United States you can buy imported versions like Norwegian Linie and Danish Aalborg, but stateside artisanal distillers North Shore, House Spirits and 45th Parallel all have versions based off of the classic methods of distilling and aging. The first one to enter the US aquavit market, it’s no surprise that Portland cocktail menus are taking advantage of House Spirit’s Krogstad Festlig Aquavit, my personal favorite.

For those of us that need a drink to pair with our rye bread and potatoes – don’t we all? – we can thank the rise of Scandinavian cuisine, as well as a general culinary obsession with craft distilleries, for moving aquavit beyond the Swedish party table and onto cocktail menus. A traditionalist would tell you that aquavit should only be consumed at the customary celebratory dinners and with subsequent dishes. But tradition is meant to be broken, and aquavit’s clean taste makes it a spirit that fits both in winter and summer, and makes it a prime mixing element for drinks.

Jacob Grier, lead bartender at Metrovino in Portland, Oregon, and maybe best known for his creation of bone luging, is such an aquavit advocate that last fall he put together an entire cocktail week devoted to the spirit. If it’s your first foray into the world of aquavit, his Aquavit Hot Toddy is a good place to start. Skål!

Aquavit Hot Toddy

• 1 1/2 oz aged aquavit (Krogstad Gamle)
• 3/4 oz Swedish Punsch
• 1/2 oz lemon juice
• 6-8 oz hot water
• star anise, for garnish

Combine all ingredients in a pre-heated mug and garnish with the star anise.

Image: Skånska Matupplevelser

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What happens when one style meets another? Is it catastrophe waiting to happen or is there hope for harmony?

That’s why we created Style Clash. Some design styles are more flexible; others force us to stretch outside our comfort zone. Each week we will offer tips for mixing competing styles successfully.

What do we mean by “successful”, you ask? If nothing seems strange, jarring or just plain ugly, then I’m all for it regardless of time period, colorway or material. I call it a successful Style Clash.

For our third installment in the Series we will mix Country with Scandinavian and see where we land.

A warm, cozy Country style kitchen (image above) welcomes every visitor with fresh-baked bread and hot cocoa. It is rustic elegance at its finest.

Although there are many shades of Country style (French, English, Rustic, Americana), the common thread throughout is muted colors, soft floral or striped patterned fabrics and primitive, relaxed furnishings. Everything appears ready-to-wear, comfortable and lived-in.

Lots of wood is a must – wide-plank floors, wall paneling and beam ceilings, left raw (image above) or painted a washed over white. A Country home usually shows wear and tear, with antique or flea market found objects as well as handmade pottery and baskets.

The sleek simplicity of Scandinavian style (image above and below) was born out of an attraction to easy, versatile living. It wasn’t just IKEA that woke our yearning for the efficient and uncluttered, but the Swedish surely know how to create fresh, clean and au natural interiors.

A Scandinavian room can range from the casual and aged to modern and new, but fresh and un-stuffy is key to interpreting this interior design style. High ceilings and large windows allow for the most sunlight, something yearned for in a country known for long winters, dreary days and very little natural light.

Combining these styles (top image) may seem impossible to imagine, but that’s why we are here. Style Clash turns this unlikely duo into a design marriage made in heaven.

The melding of Country with Scandinavian (image above and below) results in a crisp, casual and completely inviting room. Imagine the living and dining areas pictured here full of family and friends, fabulous food and great conversation. Notice the stone floors and wood beam ceilings, white walls and comfortable, warm carpet.

The clean, uncluttered and airy feel of Scandinavia melds seamlessly with the casual, rustic and aged attitude of Country. It’s subtle but significant. If I had to define the style mix, I’d call it bright and comfortable with a versatile, up-to-date agenda.

Meet me here next week as we continue to cruise the spectrum of interior design styles, two at a time. Ciao for now!

Images: Ina & Matt, Interior Divine, HGTV, Blackford and Sons, emmas designblogg.

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Stylist Emma Persson Lagerberg has a home that sings; this delicate space boasts a pallid backdrop with bold details. Each vignette captured by the talented lens of Petra Bindel is a study of contrast. Expansive white is relieved by dark and earthen accessories and sensuous curves are paired with masculine angles.

The eclectic elements of this home meld together to create an invitation to bask in cohesion. From stark white Eames chairs sitting beside antique wooden finds to the vintage avian prints, the interior is thoughtfully composed of contrasting styles and colors.

The bedroom is a clean palette for dreams accessorized by feminine details and lavender filtered light.

For more gorgeous interiors from stylist Emma Persson Lagerberg and photographer Petra Bindel, drool through this post.

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Stockholm-based Jantze Brogard Asshoff studio produces thoughtful, elegant designs. Founders Moa Jantze, Hanna Brogård and Johanna Asshoff strive to simplify their surroundings to improve everyday life.

“We create sophisticated, useful products with a poetic soul and playful character,” they explain. “Our backgrounds from different parts of Sweden will always be a great source of inspiration. We like to mix modern with traditional, folklore with decadent luxury and regional Swedish handicraft with industrial production.”

The results are apparent in the well-balanced red Bloom Chair with folksy flowers embroidered on felted wool. The little seat with steel and pipe construction was  inspired by the rich ornamentation of  past Scandinavian folk traditions by Moa Jantze.

Another innovative design is the upholstered felt Pinecone Pouf, a pouf with wool scales by Moa Jantze.

In recent weeks, the group showed off its Greenhouse container at a curated group show called Kitchen Ecology exhibited during Dwell on Design event in Los Angeles.

The modern designs of fresh international eco designers were featured, including Greenhouse by Jantze BrogÃ¥rd Asshoff, a paper house-shaped bin (think Monopoly houses where the porches are  pedals). When you step on the porch the roof opens up. It comes in different sizes to fit different types of garbage boxes and sorting.

“Greenhouse is a beautiful way to store and sort your garbage and fits both at home and in office spaces,” says the designers.

Look for more innovative green solutions from this upcoming Swedish team!

Images: Jantze Brogard Asshoff

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Putting stock in Stockholm’s abandoned dwellings, Swedish designer Katarina Häll embellishes clean, white pine planks with multi-colored boards in her collection called SAVE furniture.

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