Why America Can't Get Enough of Scandinavian Interior Design: The Timeless, Sustainable, and Practical Style That's Here to Stay!

Scandinavian interior design has been a beloved style for many years and has gained immense popularity in recent years, particularly in America. There are a variety of reasons why Scandinavian design is here to stay and why Americans are drawn to it. In this blog post, we will explore some of those reasons.

Firstly, Scandinavian design is known for its simplicity and functionality. This style emphasizes minimalism, clean lines, and functionality. The use of natural materials such as wood, leather, and stone, as well as neutral color palettes, creates a calming and inviting atmosphere. The simplicity of Scandinavian design makes it easy to incorporate into any space, from small apartments to large homes.

Secondly, Scandinavian design is timeless and versatile. While it may seem like a trend, the truth is that this style has been around for decades and has remained popular due to its timeless appeal. The clean lines and neutral colors of Scandinavian design allow it to work well with a variety of styles, from modern to traditional. This versatility makes it easy to integrate Scandinavian design into existing spaces without having to completely overhaul the room.

Another reason why Americans love Scandinavian design is the emphasis on sustainability and eco-friendliness. Scandinavian countries have long been leaders in sustainable living, and this philosophy is reflected in their design aesthetic. Many Scandinavian designers use sustainable materials and focus on creating long-lasting, durable pieces that are not only beautiful but also environmentally friendly.

In addition to being sustainable, Scandinavian design is also practical. This style values functionality and organization, which is why you will often see furniture pieces with built-in storage, like bookshelves with drawers or bed frames with storage underneath. This focus on practicality is particularly appealing to Americans, who often have busy lifestyles and limited space.

Finally, the popularity of Scandinavian design can be attributed to social media and the internet. With the rise of platforms like Pinterest and Instagram, it's easier than ever for people to discover and be inspired by different design styles. Scandinavian design's clean and aesthetically pleasing aesthetic is perfect for social media, and its popularity has only increased with the rise of home decor influencers and bloggers.

In conclusion, Scandinavian interior design is here to stay and for good reason. Its timeless appeal, versatility, sustainability, practicality, and social media popularity make it a beloved style that continues to gain popularity in America and around the world.

The Golden Ratio: A Formula for Harmonious Design

Have you ever looked at a piece of art or architecture and felt an inexplicable sense of harmony and balance? Perhaps you were experiencing the golden ratio at work. The golden ratio, also known as phi or the golden mean, is a mathematical formula that has been used to create pleasing proportions and composition in design for centuries. Let's explore this fascinating concept and how it can be applied in modern design.

The History of the Golden Ratio

The golden ratio has a rich history, dating back to ancient Greece and Egypt. The Greek philosopher Pythagoras and the mathematician Euclid explored the concept, but it was the 12th-century Italian mathematician Fibonacci who popularized the idea. He discovered a sequence of numbers (0, 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 21, 34, 55, 89, etc.) in which each number is the sum of the two preceding numbers. When the ratio of any two consecutive numbers is taken, it approaches the value of the golden ratio (1.618).

The Golden Ratio in Design

The golden ratio is often used in design to create a sense of balance and harmony. It can be applied to everything from typography to architecture, helping to create a pleasing and aesthetically pleasing result. The most well-known application of the golden ratio in design is the golden rectangle, which is a rectangle with a length-to-width ratio of approximately 1.618. This rectangle is believed to be the most visually appealing proportion for designs, as it is found in everything from nature to art and even the human body.

In addition to the golden rectangle, the golden ratio can also be found in the golden spiral, a logarithmic spiral that grows outward while maintaining a constant aspect ratio. This spiral can be found in seashells, galaxies, and even the growth patterns of plants.

Using the Golden Ratio in Design

While the mathematical formula behind the golden ratio may seem daunting, it's not necessary to calculate it in order to use it in design. Instead, designers can work with the shapes and proportions of the golden ratio to create a harmonious result. For example, a designer could use the golden rectangle as a guide for the proportions of a poster or a webpage, or incorporate the spiral pattern into a logo or illustration.

In modern design, the golden ratio is often used in conjunction with other design principles, such as the rule of thirds, symmetry, and asymmetry. By combining these principles, designers can create visually appealing and engaging designs that draw the viewer's eye and create a sense of balance and harmony.

Conclusion

The golden ratio is a fascinating concept that has been used in design for centuries. While it may seem like a complex mathematical formula, designers can use the shapes and proportions of the golden ratio to create harmonious and visually appealing designs. By incorporating the golden ratio into their work, designers can create a sense of balance and symmetry that draws the viewer's eye and creates a lasting impression. Whether you're a designer or simply someone who appreciates beautiful design, the golden ratio is a concept worth exploring

Wallpaper: How to Choose the Perfect Pattern and Size for Your Space

Photo by . liane . on Unsplash Wallpaper — Photo by . liane . on Unsplash

When it comes to decorating a room, choosing the right wallpaper can make all the difference. Wallpaper not only adds color and texture to a space but can also create moods and visual effects. However, with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the perfect pattern and size for your space. Here are some tips and rules of thumb to help you make the right decision.

Consider the Architecture and Period of Your Home

Start by considering the architecture and period of your home. Whether you want to follow the style and age of your home or go against them, it's important to be aware of the patterns and forms that were popular when the house was designed. Each period has characteristic styles and patterns that you can choose from.

Choose the Right Pattern Size

The size of the room or the area of the wall can be a good pointer when it comes to choosing a pattern. A small room looks better with a small pattern, while a large room can handle a larger pattern. However, this rule of thumb should be taken with a grain of salt. Open-plan layouts can feel messy if every wall is papered with large patterns. Small patterns create a calm background that can help highlight individual objects, while large patterns tend to overwhelm objects.

Consider the Number of Colors on the Wallpaper

The number of colors on the wallpaper also influences the overall effect. The more colors, the more complex the pattern becomes. If you're not sure, choose a wallpaper with fewer colors, which creates a more cohesive look.

Choose the Right Wall

If you want a small impact, choose the smallest wall in the room. If you want a big impact, choose the largest wall or the first-impression wall.

Create Contrast with Doors and Moldings

Using wallpaper to create contrast with doors and moldings can be a great way to accentuate or camouflage them. Using wallpaper with a similar pattern to the molding can make the room feel narrower.

Choose the Right Pattern

When it comes to patterns, there are two main categories: organic/leafy and geometric/formal. Organic patterns include foliage, flowers, irregular designs with birds and animals, toile de Jouy, and paisley. Geometric patterns include geometrical shapes (e.g., triangles, squares, rectangles, rhomboids), stripes, checks, and houndstooth. Vary the size of the patterned structures to ensure that not all patterns have the same rhythm.

Wallpaper is a versatile and effective way to add color, texture, and pattern to a room. By following these tips and rules of thumb, you can choose the perfect pattern and size for your space. Remember to consider the architecture and period of your home, the number of colors on the wallpaper, and the right wall to make an impact. With these considerations in mind, you can create a space that reflects your personality and style.