Key Design Features of Scandi-Farmhouse Style

“The Scandinavian style is intentional yet has minimal decor with the desire for simple living. ‘Less is more’ is the design motto for Scandinavian interiors,” says Lawton. “Farmhouse is all about heirlooms being passed down for generations, traditional turned-leg style furniture, and warm raw woods that offer durability,” she says. Key elements from both individual styles define the Scandi-farmhouse aesthetic. 

Warm Neutral Colors

Unlike many current home design trends, the generous use of white is critical to achieving this look. “Whites, creams, soft beiges, and light grays are the usual go-tos,” says Justman. Lawton agrees, recommending that the palette remain minimal. “Think warm white walls with a light-to-medium oak floor,” says Lawton.

These simple neutrals pull from both designs, from the bright neutrals of Scandi to the shiplaps of farmhouse. However, they should be slightly warmer and more sophisticated, leaving behind the cool hues and black accents. For the Scandi-farmhouse look, Justman suggests adding “visual interest with texture like limewash walls instead of typical eggshell.”

Lots of Natural Light

To achieve the serenity and vibrancy of Scandi styles, spaces should make use of natural light. “Large windows and uncluttered layouts let light dominate the space, creating a calm atmosphere,” says Justman. The mostly white color palettes also amplify natural light, as do open-concept layouts. 

Natural Materials and Textures

Scandi-farmhouse style gets much of its visual interest from natural materials. “Wood, stone, and rattan are used to add warmth and tactile interest,” says Justman. You’ll find these materials covering surfaces—especially floors. For furniture and textiles, natural fibers like wool, linen, cotton, jute, and leather all layer texture and add to the richness and depth of the design. 

This hybrid aesthetic adds farmhouse’s lived-in charm and patina to counter Scandi style’s stark, smooth simplicity. But it also removes the sometimes dark and heavy traditional accents in farmhouse. “Soft wood tones blend the minimalist and rustic elements of both styles seamlessly,” Justman says.

Simplicity and Functionality

Scandi-farmhouse style is simple in both layout and decor. Spaces need to remain visually and physically uncluttered to feel bright and open, but with Scandi-farmhouse, it’s not at the expense of feeling livable. For example, storage should be included, and it’s fine if it’s visible; so long as it’s thoughtfully used and arranged.

Furniture should be streamlined in style and proportional to the layout, with generous room to move and exist in the space. However, don’t prioritize aesthetics over livability: Scandi-farmhouse is all about functional simplicity. Whether the furniture and decor are more modern or traditional in aesthetic, the pieces should work together to support your lifestyle.

Practical Tips for Incorporating Scandi-Farmhouse at Home

A great thing about Scandi-farmhouse style is that it dovetails nicely with other recent trends. Existing exposed wood beams, stone floors and countertops, wood flooring, and even wood paneling can be incorporated with the right balancing elements in place. When you’re ready to give it a try, Lawton and Justman offer some easy-to-follow advice for bringing the aesthetic into your home. 

Furniture

Furniture is a key component when decorating in the Scandi-farmhouse style. “My go-to stores for this style would be Crate and Barrel with a side of West Elm and a sprinkle of Pottery Barn,” says Lawton, highlighting the importance of clean, modern lines for most pieces, but leaving room for traditional components, too.

“A fun Scandi-farmhouse pairing would be a solid white oak dining table with straight legs and linen dining chairs,” she says. Regardless of the style, Lawton urges decorating with purpose and intent, favoring a more minimal approach with larger, authentic pieces. Midcentury furniture can be a way to get those modern lines and heirloom pieces, but avoid the sometimes vibrant textiles and too-on-the-nose decorative accents.

Color

We know current design trends are bringing more color into the home, and Scandi-farmhouse can feel opposite of that. If you loved Pantone’s 2026 color of the year or you aren’t quite ready to trade white walls and cabinetry for more color, this is the style for you. With a warmed-up palette, you can still incorporate color into Scandi-farmhouse design; you just have to choose color wisely. 

“Scandi-farmhouse is all about soft colors that give a warm welcome as you walk through your door,” says Lawton. “No bright colors,” she cautions. Justman agrees: “Stick to muted earthy tones. Avoid anything bold that will clash with the understated nature of the design.”

Justman recommends soft sage greens, dusty blues, and terra-cotta hues if you want to add color. It’s less about bold pops of multiple colors and more about incorporating color for warmth and personality—and remember to let the neutrals be the central focus to keep true to the style. 

Texture

Choose texture over bold colors and patterns, keeping visual simplicity in mind for everything from upholstery to bedding, window treatments, and rugs. While layers add depth, don’t go too far: Scandinavian style might be stark, but you don’t want farmhouse frill, either.

On the bed, for example, layer for comfort, not plushness, with a few carefully minimalist materials, like a linen duvet, a soft throw at the foot of the bed, and a few inviting (but not overpowering) pillows. “Simplicity is key,” reminds Justman. “Pare down and work your way up from there. Start with a neutral base and layer textures and materials for warmth,” she recommends.