10 Ways to Combine Scandinavian and Industrial Styles

Scandinavian and industrial interior design styles may seem like opposites at first glance—one is all about clean minimalism and light tones, while the other is raw, rugged, and edgy. Yet, when combined, these styles create a harmonious, modern look that feels both functional and stylish. The secret lies in balancing the cozy simplicity of Scandinavian design with the bold, utilitarian elements of industrial decor.

I first experimented with combining these styles in my own home when I fell in love with a vintage industrial dining table but didn’t want my space to feel too cold or stark. By pairing it with sleek Scandinavian chairs and soft textures, I managed to create a space that was both inviting and full of character. Now, I’m sharing the best tips to help you achieve this perfect blend in your own home.

---

Why Scandinavian and Industrial Styles Work Together

• Contrast: The light, airy elements of Scandinavian design balance the dark, heavy materials of industrial decor.
• Focus on Functionality: Both styles emphasize practical, no-fuss furniture and design.
• Timeless Appeal: The combination of natural materials and industrial elements creates a look that feels modern yet enduring.
• Minimalist Aesthetic: Both styles prioritize simplicity, clean lines, and uncluttered spaces.

---

1. Mix Light and Dark Tones

Why It Works:

Light Scandinavian tones soften the raw, dark palette of industrial design, creating a balanced and cohesive space.

How to Implement:

• Use a neutral base of white or light gray walls with black or dark metal accents.
• Pair dark industrial furniture with light Scandinavian textiles, like white linen throws or pale gray cushions.
• Add contrast with natural wood tones, which work beautifully in both styles.

Pro Tip: Keep the room grounded by ensuring no single tone dominates the space—balance is key.

---

2. Incorporate Industrial Lighting Fixtures

Why It Works:

Bold, industrial lighting adds character and drama to a Scandinavian-inspired room.

How to Implement:

• Use black or metallic pendant lights over a dining table or kitchen island.
• Add Edison bulb floor lamps with exposed wires for a rustic industrial touch.
• Pair industrial lights with soft Scandinavian decor to keep the space warm and inviting.

Pro Tip: Choose fixtures with matte finishes or natural materials, like wood or concrete, for a seamless blend.

---

3. Combine Natural and Raw Materials

Why It Works:

Scandinavian design’s love for natural materials like wood and wool complements the raw, unfinished elements of industrial decor.

How to Implement:

• Pair a reclaimed wood industrial table with Scandinavian-style upholstered chairs.
• Add soft textiles like a sheepskin rug or knitted throw to offset rough concrete or brick walls.
• Mix metal shelving with light wooden accents for a balanced look.

Pro Tip: Stick to a neutral color palette to unify the different materials.

---

4. Focus on Functional Furniture

Why It Works:

Both Scandinavian and industrial styles prioritize practicality, so functional furniture is a natural fit for this hybrid design.

How to Implement:

• Opt for furniture with clean, simple lines, like an industrial-style sofa with Scandinavian cushions.
• Use multi-functional pieces, like a storage ottoman or a modular shelving unit.
• Look for vintage industrial furniture with a minimalist aesthetic for the perfect combination of styles.

Pro Tip: Avoid overly ornate or decorative furniture—keep it sleek and purposeful.

---

5. Embrace Open Spaces

Why It Works:

Both Scandinavian and industrial styles thrive in open, airy layouts that let the design elements shine.

How to Implement:

• Use an open-plan layout to create a seamless flow between rooms.
• Incorporate industrial-style open shelving in kitchens or living areas.
• Keep clutter to a minimum by using Scandinavian-style storage solutions, like woven baskets or hidden compartments.

Pro Tip: Maintain a sense of coziness by adding rugs or textiles to define different areas in the space.

---

6. Add Scandinavian Textiles

Why It Works:

Soft, cozy textiles bring warmth and balance to the starkness of industrial materials.

How to Implement:

• Use neutral-toned throws and cushions to soften leather or metal furniture.
• Add a light-colored wool or jute rug to warm up a concrete or hardwood floor.
• Incorporate curtains in linen or cotton to soften industrial windows or exposed brick walls.

Pro Tip: Stick to simple, textured textiles in neutral colors to maintain the minimalist aesthetic.

---

7. Blend Industrial Walls with Scandinavian Decor

Why It Works:

Raw industrial walls, like exposed brick or concrete, provide a striking backdrop for Scandinavian simplicity.

How to Implement:

• Pair exposed brick walls with light wooden furniture and pastel accents.
• Soften concrete walls with Scandinavian-style wall art or a gallery wall of simple black-and-white prints.
• Use Scandinavian mirrors with slim frames to reflect light and brighten industrial spaces.

Pro Tip: If your walls aren’t naturally industrial, consider using wallpaper with a brick or concrete effect.

---

8. Incorporate Black Accents

Why It Works:

Black is a signature color in industrial design and adds a sleek contrast to Scandinavian whites and neutrals.

How to Implement:

• Use black-framed furniture, like coffee tables or dining chairs, to anchor the space.
• Add black accents through hardware, like cabinet handles or light fixtures.
• Incorporate black metal shelves or railings for a modern industrial edge.

Pro Tip: Use black sparingly—too much can make the space feel heavy.

---

9. Layer Scandinavian Greenery

Why It Works:

Plants bring life to industrial spaces and align with Scandinavian design’s focus on natural elements.

How to Implement:

• Use simple, minimalist planters in neutral tones or metal finishes.
• Add greenery like fiddle leaf figs, snake plants, or hanging vines.
• Create a vertical garden on an industrial-style wall rack for a bold statement.

Pro Tip: Stick to low-maintenance plants that thrive indoors to keep the design practical.

---

10. Choose Statement Industrial Pieces

Why It Works:

A bold industrial element, like a table or light fixture, can serve as the focal point in a Scandinavian-inspired space.

How to Implement:

• Use a reclaimed wood dining table with metal legs as the centerpiece of your dining area.
• Choose an industrial shelving unit for books, decor, or plants.
• Add a vintage industrial coffee table to your living room and surround it with Scandinavian-style seating.

Pro Tip: Keep the rest of the decor minimal to let the industrial piece stand out.

---

Picture Gallery

---

Conclusion

Combining Scandinavian and industrial styles creates a perfect balance of warmth and edginess, functionality and style. By mixing light and dark tones, natural and raw materials, and soft textiles with bold accents, you can craft a space that feels both cozy and modern.

The beauty of this design fusion is its versatility—it works just as well in small apartments as it does in large open spaces. Whether you’re starting with industrial bones or Scandinavian simplicity, these tips will help you create a harmonious, stylish home that’s uniquely yours.

---

FAQs

1. Can I use color in Scandinavian-industrial design?

Yes, but stick to muted or pastel tones for accents to maintain the minimalist and cohesive look.

2. What’s the best lighting for a Scandinavian-industrial space?

Industrial pendant lights or Edison bulb fixtures paired with soft, warm light create the perfect ambiance.

3. How do I make an industrial space feel cozier?

Incorporate Scandinavian textiles like throws, cushions, and rugs, and add greenery for a touch of life.

4. Can I mix modern furniture with industrial elements?

Absolutely! Scandinavian design’s clean, modern lines pair beautifully with industrial materials like metal and concrete.

5. Is Scandinavian-industrial design suitable for small spaces?

Yes! Its emphasis on functionality and minimalism makes it perfect for maximizing small spaces while keeping them stylish.