Scandinavian design

As we turn the page on a new year, our addiction to finding the ideal way to live comes to the forefront of our focus. Our busy lives, filled with the strains of work, as well as social and family commitments has us turning a blind eye to the ideologies of a slower lifestyle. One that focuses on a different meaning to enjoy everyday life.

The balance and connection of life is what makes us human. It is what gives us focus and meaning. Scandinavian countries value many aspects of life very much differently to those of us at home in the UK. Their ideologies of ‘valuing the little things’, especially in these challenging times, can help us to focus on retaining a better balance.

Scandinavians have very high standards of living. From the cultural epitome of the Danish ‘Hygge’ (pronounced hyoo.guh) which is a quality of cosiness and comfortable conviviality that engenders a feeling of contentment or well-being. Or the Swedish ‘Lagom’ meaning ‘just the right amount’ which are values that drive for a better way of life. This is not only a mindset, it is embellished throughout their everyday movements. How you start your day, where you live, how you eat. It is as true in words as it is in actions.

Scandinavian interior and architecture has a power that turns minimalist design into a place of serenity and cosiness. A trend that will never go out of style, this ever popular design is carefully constructed to meet the ideals of a balanced environment.

Using blends of textures and muted colour tones, the minimalistic style is inviting and calm. Clean lines are balanced with soft furnishings finished with a functional aesthetic.

It is design with purpose. Using colours that reflect the natural landscape brings you closer to it. It is a safe haven, where one can relax and really feel ‘at home’.

True Scandinavian design is far from the simplistic ultra-modernism as manifested for example by a certain world-famous and popular Swedish multinational homewares retailer. A true Scandinavian interior consists of something much more meaningful. It often features a mix of these simplistic modern lines, but these are off-set by a mix of natural home furnishings of handmade textiles and country-esque qualities of sheepskin throws and hand-crafted pottery. It is the pairing of a modern clutter-free environment with these simple natural textures that sets true Scandinavian design apart.

This goes for the kitchen too. In its truest form, a Scandinavian kitchen is functional. It is accessible to everyone. The space is minimal with sharp edges and clean textures. Their textures again are natural and durable. Practical in function, stylish in finish.

The food is replicated in all of this too. Although founded on long traditions, modern Scandinavian food is also inspired by other cultures but frankly, it is simple, healthy, and elegant.

Honest food that is natural and simple. It is built on the basis of using the freshest ingredients, that all have a role to play. It is uncomplicated and delicious. Some of the top restaurants in all of the world are Scandinavian in their roots – for example Noma. No ingredient goes to waste, with a focus on the best local seasonal ingredients – often foraged in the immediate surroundings.

From potatoes, to cucumbers, dills, fish, pork and more. Many see these ingredients as robust. But as the cuisine is taken into the modern roles of today, it is finished to a beautifully high-standard that is wholesome and delicious.

If you would like to know more about how functional foods can be used to maintain your physical and mental health in 2021 have a look at our recent article by Chef Jozef Youssef.

Healthy food comes in many forms, not just by what we eat, but how we choose to cook. Healthy food should be sustainable and this is where Scandinavian food is hailed for its success.

Using locally produced ingredients is just the start. Eating less meat and using nature’s best ingredients helps to inspire. They also believe that eating what you want satisfies the soul. So it is not about eating a salad that keeps you healthy, but it is about balance.

Plating your food is as important too. We already know that the Scandinavians are known for their design in interiors, but it is engraved into every aspect of their day-to-day. Plating food well and with care, leads you to enjoy your meals more and inspires us to keep on cooking, which in turn leads to a healthier more sustainable way of life.

Creating a mind set that involves taking on ideologies of a different culture can seem daunting. It is not a matter of going cold turkey on your lifestyle, but adapting to change that can help benefit your lifestyle. Functionality within your home is something that will help your life to become more seamless. It is a matter of asking yourself, how you would like to balance your lifestyle to become a little more calm.

Siemens Home Appliances embraces the spirit and values of modern Scandinavian design and it perfectly fits with our design heritage and aesthetic - clean, minimalist design combined with functional and logical connectivity to help consumers achieve a better life balance.