All three Scandinavian countries - Denmark, Norway and Sweden - are Nordic, but not all the Nordic countries are Scandinavian. Iceland and Finland are Nordic, while Norway, Sweden and Denmark (apart from Greenland and the Faroe Islands) are both Nordic and Scandinavian. Are you still with me?
Nowadays, when we refer to Scandinavia, we actually mean the Nordic countries. Officially, Finland and Iceland are not part of Scandinavia. But because they do have a culture very similar to the other Scandinavian countries, and they are important players in the field of innovative design, they are included. In the field of design, every Scandinavian country clearly has its own characteristics.
Denmark has been an authority on modern design since the mid-century. Whether it is about their lamps, their ceramics, their fashion or their furniture, many of their designs are now considered classics.
Finland has established a name in many areas; from jewelery through ceramics to furniture and fashion, they excel in aesthetics and in pureness. Furthermore, they know how to embrace bold patterns and bright colours.
More and more young Icelandic designers are now employed by leading Scandinavian brands, such as Design House Stockholm and Kähler Design, to name a few.
Of the Scandinavian countries, Norway could be seen as the most traditional in the field of interior design. They are masters in creating sustainable design that breathes their sense of - and respect for their history and their ancestors. Yes, I'm a bit biased, must admit ;-)
Sweden showcases its open-mindedness and inclusiveness in all of their design. Not only in the field of interior, but also in the fashion industry, they established a solid name and made their marks.
WHAT IS IT THAT MAKES NORDIC DESIGN SO SPECIAL...
...and while we're at it, what is it that makes the Nordics such happy people?
If you really want to know, ask someone living in the Nordic countries. After all, they are considered to be the happiest people in the world (and there are studies to back that up*). So what makes the Nordic people, happy people?
Well, of course there’s Nordic equality, education, a clean environment, nature and security – but, above all, there's the place they call home. For Nordics, home is a special place. The weather not always cooperating, caused the Scandinavians to develop into experts on indoor - ánd outdoor life. Ever heard of hygge, mys or sauna? And of new born babies sleeping outside - rain or shine? I
t's all about he acceptance of the elements! There's even a Norwegian saying that goes: Ut på tur, aldri sur! roughly translated as Out and about, never sour (sulky)! And another exemplary Norwegian saying: Det finns ingen dårlig vær, det finns bare dårlig klær! – meaning There is no bad weather, only bad clothes.
Not materialism, but aesthetics, and less is more. Therefore everything, however small, should be chosen with care. Quality is not about elitism, it's all about sustainability.
In our online store full of Nordic design, you will find just that...products chosen with care. Why not find your own piece of Nordic happiness?
