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14 Scandi kitchen design ideas

By Ellie Reeves | 22nd January 2025 | 6 min read

Scandinavian kitchens are all about clean lines, natural materials, and effortless functionality. Rooted in minimalism but with plenty of warmth and charm, this style blends simplicity with practicality. Whether you’re starting from scratch or refreshing your current kitchen, we'll help you bring that signature Scandi look to your home.

A large white Scandi kitchen with a white marble worktop and splashback, and light wood effect flooring.A large white Scandi kitchen with a white marble worktop and splashback, and light wood effect flooring.A large white Scandi kitchen with a white marble worktop and splashback, and light wood effect flooring.A large white Scandi kitchen with a white marble worktop and splashback, and light wood effect flooring.

1. Keep it simple with streamlined cabinets

In Scandi design, less is definitely more. Choose sleek, handleless cabinets in matt white or soft grey to keep things clean and crisp. Our Stevia range is spot on for the look - available in matt or glossy finishes, depending on how much shine you’re after. For a cosy touch, throw in a bit of wood for natural warmth. Simple, stylish, and totally Scandi.

White and green kitchen with white tiled splashback and wooden open shelving.White and green kitchen with white tiled splashback and wooden open shelving.White and green kitchen with white tiled splashback and wooden open shelving.White and green kitchen with white tiled splashback and wooden open shelving.

2. Go for open shelving

Swap upper cabinets for open shelving to create an airy, modern feel. Use light wood like birch or oak for that Scandi vibe and neatly stack your everyday essentials. Keep it functional yet decorative – think colour-coordinated plates, glass jars, or even a small herb garden for a pop of green.

Large brown and cream Scandi style kitchen with wooden worktops, black statement lighting and bar stools.Large brown and cream Scandi style kitchen with wooden worktops, black statement lighting and bar stools.Large brown and cream Scandi style kitchen with wooden worktops, black statement lighting and bar stools.Large brown and cream Scandi style kitchen with wooden worktops, black statement lighting and bar stools.

3. Choose a wooden worktop

Nothing says “cosy Scandi” quite like a wooden worktop. Whether you choose solid wood or a budget-friendly laminate, the natural texture adds warmth to a neutral palette. Solid wood will need a bit more upkeep, while laminate is easy to care for – perfect for busy households.

Small light grey Scandi style kitchen.Small light grey Scandi style kitchen.Small light grey Scandi style kitchen.Small light grey Scandi style kitchen.

4. Stay seamless with built-in appliances

Built-in appliances are a Scandinavian kitchen staple. Tuck your oven, dishwasher, and fridge behind cabinet doors to keep things looking sleek and uncluttered. And for visible appliances, choose minimal designs that blend with your chosen colour palette.

Large grey and wood Scandi style kitchen with grey floor tiles and a round wooden dining table.Large grey and wood Scandi style kitchen with grey floor tiles and a round wooden dining table.Large grey and wood Scandi style kitchen with grey floor tiles and a round wooden dining table.Large grey and wood Scandi style kitchen with grey floor tiles and a round wooden dining table.

5. Create contrast with flooring

Scandi kitchens love contrast. Light wood flooring is a classic choice, but monochrome tiles can add a contemporary edge. For a budget-friendly option, explore vinyl flooring in wood or tile effects – it’s durable, easy to install, and adds a stylish finish.

White and blue kitchen with dark blue and white geometric patterned splashback.White and blue kitchen with dark blue and white geometric patterned splashback.White and blue kitchen with dark blue and white geometric patterned splashback.White and blue kitchen with dark blue and white geometric patterned splashback.

6. Bring in geometric patterns

Add a modern twist to your walls or floors with geometric shapes. Bring personality to your space with a bold splashback or rug - without overwhelming the minimalist aesthetic.

Modern dark grey Scandi style kitchen with large kitchen island, gold effect bar stools and a large black domed pendant light.Modern dark grey Scandi style kitchen with large kitchen island, gold effect bar stools and a large black domed pendant light.Modern dark grey Scandi style kitchen with large kitchen island, gold effect bar stools and a large black domed pendant light.Modern dark grey Scandi style kitchen with large kitchen island, gold effect bar stools and a large black domed pendant light.

7. Light the way with statement pendants

Scandinavian design adores large domed pendant lights — and it’s easy to see why. These stylish showstoppers bring a cosy yet contemporary vibe to your kitchen. Hang one (or a few) over your dining table or breakfast bar to create a focal point.

Small light grey and wooden Scandi style kitchen with a blackboard feature wall.Small light grey and wooden Scandi style kitchen with a blackboard feature wall.Small light grey and wooden Scandi style kitchen with a blackboard feature wall.Small light grey and wooden Scandi style kitchen with a blackboard feature wall.

8. Go monochrome

White is the hallmark of Scandinavian style, but adding grey and black accents can elevate the look. Black sinks, taps, or light fixtures create a bold, modern contrast against a pale backdrop. Giving your kitchen an edge while keeping it grounded in simplicity.

Close up shot of a open kitchen drawer with a wooden cutlery tray.Close up shot of a open kitchen drawer with a wooden cutlery tray.Close up shot of a open kitchen drawer with a wooden cutlery tray.Close up shot of a open kitchen drawer with a wooden cutlery tray.

9. Maximise storage with smart solutions

Scandi kitchens may look effortless, but their secret weapon is clever storage. Use drawer organisers and cutlery trays to keep the inside just as neat as the outside.

White and wooden Scandi style kitchen with a cream geometric print rug placed under a wooden dining table.White and wooden Scandi style kitchen with a cream geometric print rug placed under a wooden dining table.White and wooden Scandi style kitchen with a cream geometric print rug placed under a wooden dining table.White and wooden Scandi style kitchen with a cream geometric print rug placed under a wooden dining table.

10. Layer with soft textures

Balance the hard lines of cabinetry and flooring with soft textures. Place a rug under your dining table, or cushions on your chairs to add comfort and warmth. Stick to muted tones or geometric patterns for a cohesive look.

Large grey Scandi kitchen with two large vases of flowers on kitchen worktop.Large grey Scandi kitchen with two large vases of flowers on kitchen worktop.Large grey Scandi kitchen with two large vases of flowers on kitchen worktop.Large grey Scandi kitchen with two large vases of flowers on kitchen worktop.

11. Add a touch of greenery

Bring your Scandi kitchen to life with houseplants. Try potted herbs on the windowsill for a fresh, fragrant touch. Add trailing ivy to open shelves for a bit of charm. Or make a statement with a fiddle-leaf fig in the corner. A touch of greenery makes all the difference.

Minimalist white Scandi kitchen with gold effect lights, tap, and handles.Minimalist white Scandi kitchen with gold effect lights, tap, and handles.Minimalist white Scandi kitchen with gold effect lights, tap, and handles.Minimalist white Scandi kitchen with gold effect lights, tap, and handles.

12. Play with metallic finishes

Metallic accents like brass, copper, or bronze effect can add a sophisticated touch to your Scandi kitchen. Use them sparingly – on fixtures, handles, or pendant lights – to maintain the clean aesthetic while adding a little shine.

Neutral Scandi kitchen with wooden worktops and stylish cream coloured accessories.Neutral Scandi kitchen with wooden worktops and stylish cream coloured accessories.Neutral Scandi kitchen with wooden worktops and stylish cream coloured accessories.Neutral Scandi kitchen with wooden worktops and stylish cream coloured accessories.

13. Opt for neutral accessories

Your finishing touches should complement the understated style. Choose neutral-coloured vases, ceramic bowls, or wooden utensils to decorate open shelves. Keep it simple but chic, and don’t shy away from handmade or artisanal pieces.

Dark grey and wooden minimalist Scandi kitchen with large window letting in plenty of daylight.Dark grey and wooden minimalist Scandi kitchen with large window letting in plenty of daylight.Dark grey and wooden minimalist Scandi kitchen with large window letting in plenty of daylight.Dark grey and wooden minimalist Scandi kitchen with large window letting in plenty of daylight.

14. Let in the light

Scandi style is all about that light, bright feel. Keep window treatments simple with sheer curtains or frosted glass - or go without if privacy isn’t an issue. To really make the most of natural daylight, add mirrors. Placed cleverly, they’ll bounce light around the room, keeping your kitchen fresh and airy all day long.