The Scandinavian bathroom – relax in Nordic style

Relax in Nordic style

Scandinavian design ideas are influential all over the world—and the bathroom is no exception. The Scandinavian style blends perfectly into modern design and offers an ideal balance between functionality and relaxation. Although wellness trends frequently highlight the concept of Hygge, the understated Lagom style of Swedish bathrooms has also made a big impression. Find out what makes this concept unique and how to design your bathroom in true Scandinavian style.

Scandinavian bathroom with sink area and bathtub from the Duravit Luv series

Design philosophy between Hygge and Lagom

Because of the connection to Hygge, cozy bathrooms are often associated with the Nordic style. However, there’s an equally strong emphasis on a stylishly minimal approach. At the heart of this approach is the concept of Lagom. This Swedish term doesn’t have a direct translation, but it roughly means “just the right amount”—neither too much nor too little. For Scandinavian baths, this means striving for perfection through simplicity. This style fits seamlessly into a minimalist design concept without sacrificing comfort. Nature and tranquility take center stage here.

Materials, shapes and colors for a Scandinavian bathroom

The Scandinavian look is defined by a natural, understated flair that carries through to the key elements of the design.

Luv sink on wooden slab, bird's-eye view

Wood and ceramics

The right colors

Sink area with two Duravit Luv countertop sinks

Design language

Designing a Scandinavian bathroom

You don’t need much when it comes to designing a Scandinavian bathroom. Avoid any clutter or visual noise; less is always more when it comes to the Scandinavian style. Accessories that don’t serve any obvious function are almost entirely avoided. Comfort and coziness, though, still play a major role alongside functionality.

Sink area

Vanities

Bathroom with Duravit bathtub and sink area, light enters through large window

Lighting

Walk-in shower in spacious bathroom with floor-to-ceiling windows

Showers

Implementation tips

The minimalist design approach of a Scandinavian-style bathroom makes decorating a breeze. It doesn’t take much—just a few smart details are all that’s needed for an impressive result. The following tips can help in the process:

Small bathroom with a sink area and Duravit Luv bathtub

Designing a small bathroom in Nordic style

Sauna in the bath

Duravit White Tulip bathtub in front of floor-to-ceiling windows

Combining elements in a Scandinavian bathroom

The influence of Scandinavian bathroom interiors is clearly visible throughout contemporary bathroom design. That’s one of the reasons why elements of the Nordic style pair so well with modern design. But a Scandinavian bathroom will also work especially well when combined with other traditional styles too. In Japanese bathrooms, for example, tranquility and nature are at the forefront as well. Despite the cultural differences, the fusion of these styles has given rise to an entirely new design trend called Japandi.