May 24, 2025, 9:17 am | Read time: 3 minutes
Summer is balcony season! What could be better than transforming your own sunny spot into a Nordic comfort zone? For that special cozy factor in the fresh air, it should be light and casual—just like Scandinavian interior design.
It’s undeniable: The happiest people in the world reside in the northernmost countries of Europe. The annual World Happiness Report recently confirmed once again what has been considered an unwritten rule for years: Finland is unbeatable in terms of citizen satisfaction, but Denmark and Sweden also rank among the top five happiest countries worldwide. When you look at the unique lifestyle of the Scandinavians, the result is hardly surprising. Up in the north, people prefer things to be relaxed, calm, and straightforward—a concept that is also reflected in interior design.
What Is Behind the Scandi Look?
Years ago, the Scandi look was considered a niche design, but social media has long since made it mainstream. And because it conveys a special sense of life, it has secured a permanent place among design styles. The Scandi look exudes tranquility, yet despite its minimalist features, it feels cozy and inviting. “Keep it simple” could be the motto, as you won’t find flashy flourishes, color explosions, or pattern mixes. Instead, light tones, natural materials, and plenty of light prevail. A core component of the Scandi look is the Hygge style, which describes an inviting, warm atmosphere for comfort.
Related: Furniture and Accessories for a Cozy Balcony
How to Bring Boho Style into Your Living Room
How to Incorporate the Boho Trend in Your Decor
How the “clean chic” trend ensures greater well-being at home
Scandi Look on the Balcony
Transforming your own balcony into a Nordic comfort zone in the Scandi style is not a big challenge. All it takes for proper implementation is the right use of wood, decorative elements, and light sources.
Color Palette
In the Scandinavian winter, it is very dark, and in many regions, the sun often doesn’t appear for days. Therefore, the color palette for the Scandi look promises brightness and radiance. Various shades of beige, a rich white, and light gray gradations are just as noteworthy as gentle pastel hues. Depending on preference, the tones can be combined and complemented. The key is: Don’t go too dark.
Furniture and Decor
Scandinavians have a strong connection to their native nature, which is untouched and stunningly beautiful in many places. To bring a piece of forest and meadow inside or onto the balcony, the Scandi look uses Nordic woods like spruce, pine, or birch.
Relaxation furniture made from these woods exudes freshness and durability and can be perfectly complemented with natural textiles and decorative elements. Linen blankets or curtains, subtle baskets made of bast, and white woven rugs or seat cushions skillfully complete the style. But here, less is more; when selecting various materials, don’t overdo it, or the end result will quickly feel cluttered.
Light Sources
As mentioned earlier, light plays an essential role in the northern region. Additionally, indirect light sources create a cozy atmosphere and align with the Hygge style. Small minimalist string lights are just as suitable as bright lanterns or wind lights. Here you can learn how to use solar lights for appealing lighting on the balcony.