27 Scandinavian Kitchen Ideas With Modern Nordic Charm

By Interior Designer Tracy Svendsen | Published on June 08, 2024 | 

Scandinavian Kitchen Ideas: Nordic influences have taken the world by storm, and it’s no wonder why. With its minimalist aesthetic, clean lines, and functional elements, Scandinavian design brings a sense of calm and tranquility to any space, including the kitchen.

This article explores the Nordic aesthetic, which can elevate your kitchen to new heights. From sleek cabinets to natural materials, we’ll show you how to create a kitchen that combines style and functionality effortlessly.

Scandinavian kitchens are known for their decluttered style, neutral palettes, functional use of space, and occasional unexpected touches. They feel cozy and warm. Discover inviting and beautiful contemporary kitchen designs where form and function coexist, reflect Nordic tranquility, and create a timeless, harmonious feeling. Feature image courtesy of Vanessa Alexander Design.

Here are a few key elements in Scandinavian Kitchen Design

Modern Scandinavian Kitchen
Image courtesy of Lindye Galloway Design

1. Neutral Color Palette

Nordiska Kök elevates Scandinavian design in this stunning kitchen. The space embodies minimalism, timelessness, and the seamless marriage of form and function – hallmarks of the style. While the Scandinavian influence is undeniable, beautiful natural materials and a muted, slightly warmer color palette soften the edges. Soft, organic shapes and custom-built details add a touch of personality without compromising the core principles of clean lines and understated elegance.

Scandinavian Kitchen with a Neutral Color Palette
Image courtesy of Nordiska Kök Bespoke Nordic Kitchens

2. Keep The Color Scheme Warm & Inviting

In another kitchen designed by Nordiska Kök, a warm palette sets the tone, distinguished by its dark brown infusions and solid oak. It reflects the home’s overall design philosophy of a soft, inviting color palette with contrasting elements.

Functionality takes center stage, with the worktop, coated cabinets, stain, and built-in wine section meticulously chosen for aesthetics and practicality. The island, a true family favorite, offers ample cooking and storage space while cleverly incorporating a designated wine section.

Its generous size also transforms it into a social hub, the heart of the kitchen. The finishing touch? A ceramic countertop, chosen for its durability and how it subtly contrasts with the rest of the space, perfectly complementing the kitchen’s curated look.

Scandinavian Kitchen with a Warm Color Scheme
Image courtesy of Nordiska Kök Bespoke Nordic Kitchens

3. Embrace Simplicity, Functionality & Minimalism

Scandinavian design is rooted in simplicity, functionality, and minimalism. It emphasizes clean lines, open spaces, and natural materials. Scandinavian kitchens are also champions of efficiency. No matter their size, these spaces prioritize function and intelligent use of space. Embracing the philosophy of “form follows function,” Scandi kitchens minimize embellishments and maximize utility. Built-in storage solutions and adjustable shelving exemplify this modern approach, ensuring every inch serves a purpose and keeps the space clutter-free.

Nordic Kitchen Design
Image courtesy of Emma Hos Design

4. White Walls & Light Wood Cabinets

The timeless combination of white walls and wood remains a cornerstone of Scandinavian design. This year, however, the love affair with nature takes a turn towards serenity. Lighter wood tones dominate, creating a calming atmosphere. Contrasting elements like stainless steel accents and darker wood pieces beautifully offset these subtle hues. The result is a fresh take on the Nordic aesthetic, offering a softer and more tranquil feel.

Rustic Scandinavian Dining Room
Image courtesy of Vanessa Alexander Design

5. Natural Materials

Natural materials are imperative in Scandinavian design, adding warmth, texture, and a connection to nature. Incorporating natural materials in your kitchen can help create a sense of harmony and tranquility.

When selecting natural materials, pay attention to their sustainability and eco-friendliness. Choose responsibly sourced and manufactured materials, as this aligns with the eco-conscious values often associated with Scandinavian design.

Scandinavian kitchens embody a deep love for the outdoors. Lush greenery isn’t relegated to just gardens; potted plants adorn shelves, islands, and countertops, blurring the lines between interior and exterior spaces. Walls also become canvases for nature, with herb gardens offering a decorative touch that doubles as a handy source of fresh ingredients.

Neutral Scandinavian Kitchen
Image courtesy of Marcin Grabowiecki Photography

6. A Uniform Expression

Homes are transforming into sanctuaries of serenity with a design trend that seamlessly extends the kitchen’s color palette and materials into adjoining rooms. This creates a unifying thread throughout the house, fostering a sense of calm and relaxation. This unified color palette and material choices provide the relaxation we yearn for as the day ends.

Nordic Kitchen with Black Accents
Image courtesy of Studio Lawahl

7.  Warm Wood Tones

Wood is a key element in Scandinavian design, and incorporating it into your kitchen can add warmth, texture, and a connection to nature. From cabinets and countertops to wooden floors and furniture, there are numerous ways to infuse your kitchen with the beauty of wood.

For cabinetry and countertops, opt for light wood finishes or white surfaces. These colors not only enhance the minimalist aesthetic of Scandinavian design but also contribute to the overall brightness of the space.

Organic Scandinavian Kitchen
Image courtesy of Marcin Grabowiecki Photography

8. Embrace Hygge Philosophy

One of the fundamental aspects of Scandinavian design is the concept of “hygge.” This Danish term refers to coziness and contentment, often achieved through warm lighting, natural materials, and comfortable furnishings.

Urbanology designed this striking kitchen with light white upper cabinets above light wood tone lower cabinets, creating a sense of airiness. A stunning backsplash and island in beautifully veined white and gray marble add a touch of luxury.

Sculptural black and white pendant lights hang above the island, their unique forms echoing the modern aesthetic. Cozy faux fur throws draped over the stools complete the inviting atmosphere.

Scandinavian Kitchen Ideas
Image courtesy of Urbanology

9. Keep it Cozy & Inviting

LHK Interiors creates a dream kitchen that’s both warm and inviting. A neutral color scheme forms the foundation, but it’s anything but boring. Layers of texture add visual interest, from the warm tones of the wood to the unique lighting fixtures.

Open shelving keeps the space airy, while leather counter stools and landscape artwork with floral arrangements add a touch of sophistication and warmth. The result is a modern design that embraces comfort, perfect for casual meals and stylish entertaining.

Scandinavian Kitchen with Wood Cabinets
Image courtesy of LHK Interiors

10. Unexpected Pops of Color

This Scandinavian kitchen, designed by Emma Hos, has a seating area and exudes charm in a small yet lovely package. It is a delightful mix of old and new aesthetics. Blue cabinets, a timeless classic, pair beautifully with the warmth of the oak flooring.

Soft rose-colored curtains add a touch of femininity, while crisp white walls make the space bright and airy. A floral arrangement graces a white farmhouse table, completing the inviting feel.

Small Scandi Kitchen
Image courtesy of Emma Hos Design

11. Marble Kitchen Island

More than just a functional space, the kitchen island has become a statement piece, capturing the eye with its dramatic beauty. Modern kitchen islands transcend their practical role, transforming into social hubs through a thoughtful selection of color, shape, and material. They can seamlessly complement a home’s existing color scheme or create a stunning contrast, drawing attention with their luxurious sheen and veined patterns.

Elegant & Refined Kitchen
Image courtesy of Marcin Grabowiecki Photography

12. Ceramic Bowls & Vases

Choose stylish and functional accessories for your Scandinavian kitchen. Scandinavian design often incorporates natural elements such as ceramics, glass, and textiles. Consider adding rustic ceramic bowls or vases, glass jars for storage, or textiles such as linen or wool for dish towels or curtains.

Scandinavian Kitchen Ideas
Image courtesy of Emma Hos Design

13. Choose an All-White Kitchen Design for a Modern Look

Sophie Burke embraces the timeless elegance of a Scandinavian-style kitchen in this all-white kitchen design that embraces sleek lines. The light wood island adds a touch of warmth and natural texture, preventing the space from feeling cold.

White kitchens offer enduring style—their clean lines and neutral palette ensure they’ll never go out of fashion. For those who crave a touch of contrast, incorporating wood elements, like the island here, provides a beautiful way to add visual interest. Lighter woods promote a sense of cohesion, while darker options create a more dramatic contrast.

White, Gray, Black, & Wood Tones in the Kitchen
Image courtesy of Sophie Burke Design

14. Black Accents

In the image below, a scandi-style kitchen is elevated by incorporated floor-to-ceiling contemporary black kitchen cabinets. A splash of black can add instant sophistication to any kitchen. This timeless, versatile color offers endless possibilities, from subtle elegance to bold drama.

Contemporary Scandinavian Kitchen
Image courtesy of Stadshem

15. Stainless Steel

Once a symbol of sleek, minimalist kitchens in the early 2000s, stainless steel is enjoying a revival with a warmer twist. The secret? Pairing it with natural materials like wood and stone.

This creates a stunning contrast, softening the cool, industrial feel of stainless steel and infusing the kitchen with a sense of warmth and comfort. Brushed finishes and variations in steel tone add further depth and intrigue. Combined with the richness of wood, stainless steel takes on a new and sophisticated character, a welcome detail poised to grace kitchens for years to come.

Using Stainless Steel in a Scandinavian Kitchen
Image courtesy of  Nordiska Kök Bespoke Nordic Kitchens

16. Merge Japandi & Scandinavian Elements

Japandi seamlessly blends Scandinavian and Japanese aesthetics. At the heart of Japandi lies a shared love for simplicity. Think clean lines, uncluttered spaces, and a focus on natural materials like wood, stone, and ceramics.

Warm tones and soft textures add comfort, while the occasional dark detail helps create depth and visual interest. The Japandi kitchen beautifully exemplifies this philosophy.

Natural materials blend seamlessly, creating a cohesive environment that elevates traditional Japanese design. Functionality meets serenity, ensuring your kitchen becomes a space that’s not only practical but also promotes a sense of calm.

Merging Scandinavian and Japandi Design
Image courtesy of  Nordiska Kök Bespoke Nordic Kitchens

17. Sculptural Pendant Lights

KES Studio designed this rustic Scandinavian-style kitchen with natural wood tones, plenty of natural light, organic materials, a white subway tile backsplash, and sculptural pendant lights.

Incorporating sculptural pendant lights in Scandinavian design can add visual interest and elegance. These lights serve a functional purpose by providing illumination and acting as statement pieces, adding a touch of modernity and sophistication to the otherwise minimalistic design.

The sculptural nature of these pendant lights can create a focal point in the room, drawing attention to specific areas such as the kitchen island or dining table. Additionally, their unique shapes and designs contribute to the overall aesthetic appeal of the space, complementing the clean lines and simplicity characteristic of Scandinavian design.

Modern Rustic Scandinavian-Style Kitchen
Image courtesy of KES Studio

18. Natural Stone

The love affair with natural materials continues in 2024, with homeowners increasingly turning to natural stone’s timeless beauty and inherent durability. This earth-inspired choice elevates the kitchen’s aesthetics and fosters a sense of tranquility. The natural variations within the stone connect us to the calming Nordic landscape, bringing a touch of serenity into the heart of the home.

White, Gray & Wood Tones
Image courtesy of Chango Design

19. Statement Light Fixture

Statement light fixtures are often used in modern Scandinavian kitchens and the dining area to add a touch of visual interest and personality to the space. In a design style that typically emphasizes simplicity and minimalism, a statement light fixture can be a focal point and bring a sense of warmth and character to the kitchen. Whether it’s a sculptural pendant light or a unique chandelier, a well-chosen light fixture can elevate the overall aesthetics of the kitchen and create a welcoming ambiance.

Scandi Kitchen Room with Mauve Dining Chairs
Image courtesy of Scandinavian Homes

20. Open Shelving

Embrace an airy aesthetic in your Scandi kitchen by minimizing upper cabinets. Opt for open shelves, allowing light to flow freely and creating a more spacious feel. This also presents a perfect opportunity to showcase your personality! Display beautiful tableware, decorative objects, or even artwork to add a touch of texture and personal style.

Experiment with materials like wood or glass for shelving to create a modern twist on the traditional Scandinavian look. Open shelving can be just as functional as cabinets – follow the Scandinavian principle of “a place for everything” to prevent clutter. This allows you to display stylish dishes, mugs, and other objects while maintaining a sense of clean lines and minimalism.

Minimalism in the Kitchen
Image courtesy of Studio Lawahl

21. Wood Furniture

Consider adding wooden furniture or accessories to enhance the wood elements in your kitchen further. A wooden dining table or chairs can create a cozy and inviting atmosphere, while wooden cutting boards or utensils add a touch of natural beauty to your countertops.

Warm & Inviting Small Kitchen & Dining Area
Image courtesy of Emma Hos Design

22. Warm Textures

To add texture and warmth, consider incorporating textiles in your kitchen. Hang curtains or blinds made from natural fibers such as linen or cotton. Add soft cushions or throws to your dining chairs or breakfast nook for comfort.

Scandinavian Farmhouse Kitchen
Image courtesy of Stadshem

23. Natural Light

Natural light is highly valued in Scandinavian design, so make the most of any large windows in your kitchen. Remove heavy curtains or blinds and opt for sheer or light-colored fabrics that allow natural light to flood the space.

Elegant Scandinavian Apartment
Image courtesy of Refine Design Studio

24. Pattern Flooring to Compliment a Minimalistic Look

Add a chevron or herringbone pattern to your wooden floors to achieve a Scandinavian look. Alternatively, you can explore concrete flooring, terracotta tiles, wood-look porcelain, and printed ceramic tiles. White oak, lime, and pine wood are the most favored and celebrated materials.

Modern Scandinavian Kitchen Ideas
Image courtesy of Alvhem

25. Scandinavian-Style Backsplashes

When it comes to backsplashes in Scandinavian kitchens, natural materials are the stars of the show. Marble, limestone, and travertine offer timeless elegance, their beautiful veining adding a touch of organic luxury.

Zellige tiles, handcrafted terracotta with a charming textural variation, are another fantastic option. For a sleek and modern look, glass sheet backsplashes or those crafted from ceramic or quartz create a clean, low-maintenance finish.

The beauty of Scandinavian design is its ability to embrace bold elements. Don’t be afraid to use marble with pronounced veins – the clean lines and minimalist aesthetic of Scandinavian kitchens create the perfect canvas for this statement piece. Ultimately, the key to a Scandinavian backsplash is focusing on light and natural materials or materials that evoke a connection to nature. Choose an option that complements your overall design and reflects your style.

Black & White Kitchen
Image courtesy of Jenn Pablo Studio

26. Flat-Panel Cabinets for a Contemporary Look

Scandinavian kitchens are known for their clean lines and simplicity, perfectly embodied by the prevalence of flat-panel cabinets. When it comes to color, these cabinets offer a versatile canvas. Wood tones bring warmth, painted options add a pop of personality, two-toned combinations create visual interest, and classic white keeps things bright and airy. The choice is yours to create a kitchen that reflects your unique style.

Scandinavian Dining Room Ideas
Image courtesy of Alvhem

27. Make a Strong Statement with Marble

This stunning kitchen exemplifies contemporary design that seamlessly blends aesthetics and functionality. The minimalist lines, softened by the rounded corners of the cabinetry, create a clean and inviting space. The majestic kitchen island becomes a central hub, while stainless steel details add a touch of modern polish.

The real star of the show, however, is the dramatic veined marble. Juxtaposed with the minimalist grey-beige cabinets and complemented by clever design features, it creates a timeless elegance. This combination breathes new life into the romantic charm of the turn-of-the-century room, adding a bold, modern twist.

The thoughtful selection of materials and finishes further elevates the space. All appliances are cleverly concealed behind color-matched cabinets, transforming the marble backsplash into a framed work of art, the centerpiece of the kitchen. To further enhance the beauty of the stone, the sides and “ceiling” within the niche are also clad in marble, creating a cohesive and luxurious aesthetic.

Making a Strong Statement with Marble
Image courtesy of  Nordiska Kök Bespoke Nordic Kitchens

Scandinavian Kitchen Mood Board

Scandinavian Kitchen Design Aesthetics
Images courtesy of  Nordiska Kök Bespoke Nordic Kitchens

Conclusion: Embracing Scandinavian Design in Your Kitchen

In conclusion, embracing Scandinavian design in your kitchen can elevate the space to new heights. With its minimalist aesthetic, clean lines, and functional elements, Scandinavian design brings a sense of calm and tranquility to any kitchen.

From sleek cabinets to light and neutral color palettes, every element should contribute to the overall harmony and balance of the space. Clever storage solutions, Scandinavian-inspired appliances, and the incorporation of wood elements further enhance the beauty and functionality of your kitchen. 

By creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere through lighting, textiles, and fragrance, you can truly transform your kitchen into a haven of Scandinavian delight. Get ready to elevate your kitchen with Nordic delights and create a space that combines style and functionality effortlessly.

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