The Difference Between Scandinavian and Bohemian Interior Design Styles
Both Scandinavian and Bohemian styles are among the most popular interior design trends worldwide. However, each carries a distinct personality and reflects a unique lifestyle philosophy. In this article, we’ll explore the key differences between these two styles in terms of colors, décor, lighting, materials, and furniture.
The Difference Between Scandinavian and Bohemian Interior Design Styles
Both Scandinavian and Bohemian styles are among the most popular interior design trends worldwide. However, each carries a distinct personality and reflects a unique lifestyle philosophy.
In this article, we’ll explore the key differences between these two styles in terms of colors, décor, lighting, materials, and furniture.
Colors in Scandinavian vs. Bohemian Style
Scandinavian Style
The Scandinavian style focuses on light and neutral colors such as white, gray, light blue, and beige.
The goal is to create bright and calm spaces that reflect purity, simplicity, and natural light.
Bohemian Style
The Bohemian style, on the other hand, embraces bold and vibrant hues like red, yellow, orange, turquoise, and purple.
Colors are mixed freely and artistically to express creativity, freedom, and a lively artistic spirit.
Décor
Scandinavian Style
This style is all about simplicity and organization, with minimal decorative elements.
It favors natural materials like wood and wool, focusing more on functionality than ornamentation, creating a relaxing and orderly atmosphere.
Bohemian Style
In contrast, Bohemian décor celebrates beautiful chaos — a mix of cultures, patterns, and vintage or secondhand décor pieces.
The emphasis is on personal expression rather than functionality or uniformity.
Lighting
Scandinavian Style
Because Nordic countries experience long, dark winters, lighting is a key design element.
Spaces maximize natural light during the day and use soft, warm artificial lighting to create a cozy atmosphere.
Bohemian Style
Bohemian interiors often feature soft, indirect lighting — candles, lanterns, and artistic lamps that create a warm and dreamy mood.
Materials
Scandinavian Style
Prefers natural, light materials such as pale wood, wool, linen, and metal.
The design leans toward modern minimalism with touches of warmth and comfort.
Bohemian Style
Relies heavily on handcrafted and textured materials, such as woven rugs, embroidered fabrics, ceramics, and artisanal décor, combining influences from various cultures.
Furniture
Scandinavian Style
Furniture is practical, simple, and contemporary, defined by clean lines and neutral tones.
It prioritizes comfort and usability over ornamentation.
Bohemian Style
Bohemian furniture is eclectic and expressive, mixing vintage, reused, and modern pieces with rich colors and diverse patterns that add character and warmth.
Conclusion
The Scandinavian style revolves around simplicity, light, and functionality, using natural materials and calm tones.
Meanwhile, the Bohemian style celebrates creative freedom and individuality, through bold colors, layered fabrics, and a mix of cultural influences.
Both styles offer unique ways to express personality —
choose Scandinavian for serene minimalism, or Bohemian for artistic energy and soulful charm.
