Scandi Elegance – Scandinavian design meets French flair
Scandi Elegance is the interior and kitchen design concept that blends the minimalist aesthetics of Scandinavian design with the sophisticated charm of French style. The result is both airy and grounded, with a refined elegance in which classic details define the character and infuse the space with timeless charm. Here’s how to create the look.
The French–Scandinavian kitchen is a mix of Scandinavian simplicity and French timeless charm.
The defining features for Scandi Elegance include soft transitions, rounded lines, and a light, muted colour palette that creates a serene atmosphere – paired with carefully selected materials and subtle contrasts that add both character and life.
How to create the Scandi Elegance look
A light foundation
Start with a light, muted colour palette—think soft shades of white, beige, or greige. This neutral base allows statement details to stand out while keeping the space bright and airy.
Light tones in the kitchen create a calm, neutral base that allows the details to take centre stage.
Letting both walls and cabinets share the same light tone creates a calm, soft expression.
A light colour palette is characteristic of both Scandinavian and French style.
2. Distinct design language
Clean lines and streamlined shapes balanced by gentle curves and organic elements. The design feels minimal yet warm and inviting – a perfect blend of Scandinavian simplicity and French sophistication.
One of the key features of Scandi Elegance is its distinct design language – with clean lines balanced by curved, organic elements.
French-Scandinavian kitchen design in Stockholm.
3. A bold twist
The French are known for their effortless approach to style – their so-called savoir-faire. They are masters at introducing unexpected elements to create energy and visual interest. In a kitchen this could mean a ceiling painted in a rich colour, a boldly veined marble worktop, an unexpected colour combination, or even a patterned floor.
A bold green ceiling draws the eye and adds vibrant character to the space. See more from the Classic kitchen in Copenhagen.
A Calacatta Viola marble worktop, with its dramatic veining and rich tones, introduces depth and texture to the kitchen.
Beautiful chequered stone floor in interior designer Sara Mengesha’s home in Le Vésinet, just outside Paris.
4. Timeless materials
Natural materials such as wood, stone, and marble are combined with painted surfaces to create a harmonious whole. The warmth of the wood meets the light tones in an elegant balance.
Kitchen drawers in solid oak – a timeless material that ages beautifully over time.
Scandinavian simplicity meets a touch of French flair in the minimalist design kitchen in Stockholm, where painted surfaces blends with warm oak and vibrant White Camouflage marble.
5. Elegant details
Classic details bring elegance to the space. In kitchen design, this could take the form of beautiful brass hardware, shaker-style cabinets, glass display cabinets, or softly arched oak doors that add warmth and sophistication.
Classic details such as brass taps and handles are key elements for achieving the French–Scandinavian look.
Arched details add softness and character to the space.
Decorating with books and personal details, and mixing old with new, is a great way to bring personality and character into the kitchen and home.
What is typical of French interior design?
French interiors are defined by an innate sense of style, where classic details meet relaxed elegance. Signature elements include high ceilings, ornate mouldings, aged timber floors, and antique furniture paired with contemporary pieces, art and personal touches.
What colors and materials are typical French?
The colour palette is often light and muted, sometimes paired with accents in deep or bold hues. Materials are carefully chosen – marble, velvet, brass, and wood are common in French interiors.
What does Savoir-faire mean?
Savoir-faire is a French term that literally means “to know how.” It refers to an innate or acquired ability to act with style, finesse, and tact—both socially and practically. Internationally, the phrase has become associated with French culture and its effortless mastery of taste, craftsmanship, and aesthetics, influencing everything from interiors and design to fashion and lifestyle.
What is typical of Scandinavian interior design?
Scandinavian design is characterised by timelessness, quality, simplicity, and functionality. The typical Scandinavian look is built on a neutral colour palette, clean lines, and minimalist design where every detail serves a purpose. Natural materials such as wood, stone, wool, and linen are often used to create warmth and a welcoming atmosphere.
What defines French–Scandinavian interiors?
Often described as French–Scandinavian this harmonious blend is also known as Nordic French style. It’s a fusion of:
Scandinavian simplicity:
Light, neutral colours (white, beige, grey)
Natural materials like wood, linen, and wool
Functional, minimalist design
Abundant natural light and open, airy spaces
French charm and character:
Period features such as mouldings, ceiling roses, and tall baseboards
Vintage furniture mixed with modern pieces
Accent colours, often in muted or elegant tones (burgundy, navy, emerald green)
Art, books, and personal details that add depth and character
Can I order a French-Scandinavian kitchen from Nordiska Kök?
Yes, you can order a French–Scandinavian kitchen from Nordiska Kök. We deliver our kitchens to European countries. All our kitchens are custom-made, allowing you to combine Scandinavian simplicity with French elegance in a way that suits your style and space. Learn more about how it works.
Scandi Elegance is set to be one of the standout kitchen trends for autumn 2025—explore more kitchen trends for autumn 2025.
