Many Kiwis have eye-catching Scandinavian style in their homes, but it's vital to get it right.
Acclaimed Auckland-based interior designer Mal Corboy knows a thing or two about the prevalence of Scandi style in New Zealand homes – it’sa huge part of his signature look.
Mal’s website features a blog post on his website dedicated to the topic – “Five tips for creating modern Scandinavian interior design”. They acknowledge how form and function are the tell-tale indicators of a Scandi interior, that good lighting is key, the prevalence of warm and inviting textiles, pared-down window treatments and an emphasis minimising clutter.
The post exists because of the number of New Zealanders who’ve embraced this design style; Scandi-inspired design has become somewhat synonymous with modern Kiwi interiors.
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That interior design combines utility and beauty, easily adapted to different lifestyles and climates – including those more tropical than polar. New Zealand is a case in point, says Mal: “Pulling it off requires patience and skill to match the right colour palette and source the perfect pieces.”
While many Scandinavians embrace boldly patterned wallpapers, tonal designs are more popular on this side of the world and can still work well with a Scandi style look. Resene Wallpaper Collection M01501 fits the bill for building a convincing Euro-inspired space when framed with moulding in Resene Half Alabaster
Many key elements of Scandinavian style seem particularly suited to our homes and the Kiwi love of casual living. It also speaks to the relaxed beachy vibe of many coastal homes.
New Zealanders debating whether a Scandi-themed interior will be snug in winter can follow the Scandinavian example of incorporating thick, warm textiles to soften the cool look – think furs, sheepskin and mohair. Use rugs to delineate space and toss throws over chairs and beds for warmth and cosiness. Rugs, throws, cushions, timber and baskets provide an aesthetic balance to the simple furniture and our often predominantly white and grey walls.
Plenty of colours fit this look perfectly – from the icy blue of Resene Scandi to the soothing tones of Resene Norway. Resene has a slew of dusky pastels, interesting whites and silvery grey paint colours to underpin the Scandi look. Options to try are Resene Quarter Atmosphere, Resene Double Black White, Resene Dusted Blue and Resene Duck Egg Blue.
Scandinavians love wallpaper – especially bold designs. Kiwis, on the other hand, tend to favour more tonal patterns while some go all-out with the wildest ‘conversational’ styles. Both work well; just like other elements of Scandi style, it’s more about what you do with it and finding the right balance. The Resene Wallpaper Collection has a huge range of colours and designs at your Resene ColorShop.
Resene Wallpaper Collection IUM205 features a tonal design that looks sensational with Scandinavian style furnishings. Try it with a floor in Resene Double Merino, skirting boards in Resene Rice Cake and ceilings in Resene Half Merino.
Mal’s top tips for New Zealanders to achieve the Scandi look:
Retro and Scandi elements can work well together. Try walls in Resene Wallpaper Collection 34124-3 (left) and 34124-1 (left) with a timber floor stained in Resene Colorwood Natural and skirting boards and a side table in Resene Kandinsky.
Looking for extra inspiration? Visit your local Resene ColorShop or www.resene.co.nz/latestlooks for more colour and paint ideas and inspiration
This content has been created in partnership with Resene.
