The Origins of Scandinavian-Style Houses
Scandinavian-style houses emerged in the 19th century as a response to the harsh climate conditions of Northern Europe. The design was primarily inspired by the traditional Swedish farmhouses, which were steep-roofed, two-storied buildings made from wood and painted in bright colors. These houses were built to withstand extreme cold temperatures and heavy snowfall, and were also created to harmonize with the natural surroundings. One of the main characteristics of a Scandinavian-style house is its simplicity. The design philosophy is grounded in functionality and minimalism, resulting in unpretentious and practical homes. This approach has remained a central feature of Scandinavian design, which has become famous around the world for its understated elegance and simple, yet charming, aesthetic.Natural Materials Used in Construction
Scandinavian-style houses are typically constructed with local materials, such as wood, stone, and clay. Wood, however, remains the most popular construction material due to its abundance in the region and its natural warmth. Scandinavian houses are often painted in a color scheme that blends with the natural surroundings, like white or light grey for the snowy winter landscapes and earth tones for the green forests and fields. Some natural materials commonly used in Scandinavian-style house construction include:- Natural wood for exterior and interior walls, flooring, and ceilings
- Natural stone for chimneys and fireplaces
- Clay for roofing tiles