Modern Swedish Style

What is Swedish Modern?  Swedish furniture reflects nature's simple lines and beauty.  Sleek straight lines, a lack of ornamentation, light woods and round or tapered legs are characteristics of Swedish Modern furniture. Carl Malmsten is considered to be the father of Swedish Modern furniture.

Making spaces light and airy is a central theme in Modern Swedish style.  Crystal, mirrors, and light interior colors, especially white, are used with aplomb.  In this living room a dazzling crystal chandelier sparkles above the seating area.  Crystals will refract any stray beam of light that comes it's way. Although the room is predominantly white, a smattering of pastel colors are used throughout to create interest and depth.  Furniture with exposed legs, such as the sofa, coffee table and chair, appear light and airy heightening the sense of spaciousness.  The aesthetic feels so friendly and fresh....I could live in this room!

The Swedes developed techniques to make the most of every second of sunlight. Pale floors and light walls reflect as much light as possible, even in winter when the snow acts as a reflector.  Their connection to the seasons and nature is also seen in the soft colored floral patterns which bring the outside in and the natural wood floor.  Beadboard walls add texture and interest.

Clean, uncluttered spaces are hallmarks of the Modern Swedish style.  Light floors, often pickled, and windows that have been left uncovered (as seen above) or window treatments that allow for the maximum amount of light to flood in are also characteristic.  The rustic wood ceiling beams and dark chairs balance the almost all-white room.  All the furniture's lines are clean and simple, with a strong basis on functionality.  I love the touch of robin's egg blue used on the stairs.  Photo via Metropolitan Home.

Although the style is clean and uncluttered, it still maintains a level of intimate comfort and elegance as seen in this living room.  The woven fiber rug and upholstered sofa add an element of texture to an otherwise smooth simple design.  A modern leather and chrome chair and black stools provide that element of surprise.  I love the striking simple silhouette above the fireplace.  Photo via Metropolitan Home.

Pale colors, crystal chandeliers sparkling in each room, and clean simples lines are used in these spaces to create the appealing Modern Swedish aesthetic.  The slipcovered furniture adds to its functionality. The style's wide appeal and the ease with which it blends with other styles will add to it's longevity.