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Ability Bathe | May 29, 2025

Scandi Bathroom Ideas: How to Create a Scandinavian Bathroom Design

Scandi Bathroom Ideas: How to Create a Scandinavian Bathroom Design

If you want the main bathroom in your home to look the part but also provide a relaxing spa-style area to boost your mood and lift the spirits, look no further than a Scandi bathroom design.

And hygge, a Danish term, embodies a sense of comfort, warmth and well-being. It is an ethos deeply rooted in Scandinavian culture and design.

It’s about creating a warm and inviting atmosphere, embracing the simple pleasures in life, and enjoying the company of loved ones.

Bringing hygge into a Scandinavian-style bathroom can change it from a functional area into a calming place that nurtures relaxation and mindfulness.

Key takeaways: Scandinavian bathroom design

  • Scandinavian design is founded in the touchstones of simplicity, functionality and comfort – Scandi bathrooms embrace simplicity and function
  • To achieve a true Scandinavian look, keep clean lines and uncluttered surfaces in the bathroom
  • Scandinavian bathrooms aim to create a connection with the outdoors through the use of plants and other natural elements
  • Creating a clutter-free bathroom is essential in Scandinavian design as it promotes a sense of calm and relaxation
  • Natural colours and materials are the key components of Scandinavian design, such as white walls
side table with plant and water glasses, Scandi bathroom

Scandinavian bathroom design

The essence of Scandinavian design lies in its ability to create a sense of calm and tranquility. Scandi bathrooms are characterised by clean lines and natural materials. 

The interiors prioritise simplicity and functionality, creating a serene environment for self-care and relaxation.

Scandinavian bathroom design focuses on simplicity, functionality, and natural beauty.

Scandi bathroom furniture and fixtures

Simple, bold, and modern bathroom furniture should be featured in your Scandi inspired bathroom.

  • Natural light is maximised in Scandinavian bathrooms through the use of large windows and skylights where possible
  • A freestanding tub adds a minimalistic and spa-like feel to a Scandinavian bathroom
  • Other freestanding fixtures enhance the spa-like feel of a Scandinavian bathroom
  • Simple ceramics combined with the beauty of natural wooden features help to create a homely feel
  • Natural fabrics like cotton and linen are suitable for decorative elements to achieve a Scandi look
  • Scandi-style bathrooms aim to create a connection with the countryside through the use of plants and other natural elements
  • Plush towels in neutral colors contribute to the cosy atmosphere in Scandinavian bathrooms
  • Scent plays a significant role in creating a sensory retreat – use candles, diffusers, or essential oils with calming fragrances.

Looking for other modern bathroom furniture ideas? Read our guide for some inspiration.

free-standing bath by window, Scandi bathroom

Storage solutions for Scandinavian bathrooms

Sustainability is a key concern in Scandinavian bathroom design. Clever storage ideas help declutter the bathroom, creating a minimalist feel.

  • Mirrored cabinets provide essential storage and can make the bathroom feel more spacious
  • Floating bathroom units draw the eye to visible floor space underneath them
  • Sliding doors are a space-saving solution in Scandinavian bathrooms
  • Recessed shelves can make a huge difference in both visual and practical storage
  • Built-in storage solutions can help keep clutter at bay in Scandinavian bathrooms
  • Open shelving allows for stylish storage while keeping items accessible
  • Wall hung vanity units help hide away the bathroom clutter and maintain the minimalistic feel
  • Woven baskets made from natural materials add rustic charm and practical storage
  • Using jars to store toiletries creates a clean aesthetic and saves space

Choosing simple, functional bathroom accessories helps avoid visual clutter. We also have a guide on cloakroom storage ideas.

Colour schemes and textures in Scandi bathrooms

Natural colours and materials are the key components of Scandinavian design.

The color palette of Scandinavian bathrooms is usually neutral, featuring whites, greys, and beiges – or, choosing all white elements will tie everything together nicely.

  • Characterised by clean lines and natural materials, they have a neutral colour palette, particularly white, grey, and beige
  • Using soft blues and greys can create calming accents in a predominantly white color scheme
  • Select from a range of brushed gold brassware and accessories to enhance the natural feel of the space
  • Darker accents can provide contrast in a Scandinavian bathroom without overwhelming the minimalist design
  • Natural wood accents add warmth and visual interest to the neutral color scheme in Scandinavian bathrooms
  • Matte finishes on fixtures provide a modern, understated elegance in the bathroom
  • Soft textiles in neutral or pastel tones can add warmth and comfort in Scandinavian bathrooms

Incorporating greenery in bathrooms adds a natural refreshing element. There are lots of bathroom plants that absorb moisture too, which helps you to get rid of bathroom mould.

Lighting in Scandinavian bathrooms

Lighting is a key contributor to creating a cosy atmosphere in Scandinavian design:

  • Dimmable lighting options allow for greater control over a room’s ambiance
  • Natural light plays a vital role in Scandinavian bathrooms to create a bright atmosphere
  • Using accent lighting around a bathtub can create a tranquil feel
  • Pendant lights and wall sconces are popular lighting solutions in Scandinavian bathrooms
  • Energy efficient lighting solutions reduce energy consumption in Scandi bathrooms

Soft, ambient lighting can help create the spa style bathroom with a Scandinavian design. Here is a wide range of bathroom lighting ideas.

side table with bottles, Scandi bathroom

Final thoughts: How to design a Scandinavian bathroom

Hygge-inspired Scandinavian bathrooms are more than an aesthetic, they are an experience. Combine minimalist design, natural materials, soft lighting and sensory details to create a room that invites relaxation and well-being every day!

Avoid plastic accessories, excessive decor, overcrowding with furniture or unnecessary items, bright or jarring colors, harsh lighting and any mess or disorganisation to further embrace hygge principles.

Not sure if a Scandi-style bathroom is right for you? Why not take a look at our Japanese bathroom guide next, this style could be more to your liking!

Ability Bathe are bathroom fitters Devon and the surrounding areas trust – we specialise in custom bathroom design and installation, walk-in showers and baths, accessible wet areas and more! In a recent guide we covered bath aids, shower seats and more.

We’re a family-run bathroom design and installation business, with more than 35 years of experience in the industry. All bathroom installations are guaranteed for 10 years.

Contact us about our free advice and design service and receive £500 off your bathroom renovation. For more information, please contact us.

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