Nordic culture is all the rage. In the last year we have seen the continued influence of Stieg Larsson's
Millenium Trilogy in the release of English-language film of
The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo, starring Rooney Mara and Daniel Craig. It was so critically acclaimed that the studio have signed off on the two sequel films already. Danish TV has also proved popular - acclaimed dramas
Borgen and
The Killing have been shown on the BBC. Equally, mid-century style was hot last spring and the Scandinavians practically invented mid-century style. The people of Norway are, on average, the happiest in Europe. All in all it really is no surprise that the influence of Norway, Sweden and Denmark is so noticable this year.
The Home Tradeshow took place last week. There 25% of exhibitors were from the nordic countries. The tradeshow attracts buyers from both the high street and design/interior stores. This means that some of what they saw last week will hit the shops in the next few months.
Ferm Living were one company exhibiting. Their manager says nordic design is
"retro meets modern...clean and honest, the colours are complimentary - less is more, and everything is functional." This is the guideline for the trend then. The Guardian describes the range as
"It's all very stylish and very graphic; fresh colours, clean geometric patterns repeated all over cushions and throws, tea pots and tumblers in minty greens and a bright, bold nursery range featuring fox cushions."
The promotional material for the show featured a range of teapots designed by Swedish designer Lotta Odelius, and these were high on everyone's wishlist.Verso Design from Finland featured a range of heavy textiles and throws.
Nordic design wasn't the only trend developing, but it was certainly prominent.
So, to attain the nordic style just follow these simple tips:
- Mix retro styles with modern influences.
- A pallette of fresh colours. This thinking can be applied to everything - from wallpaper and paint, to bed covers. They are bright and airy and give an uplifting feel of enlightenment to a room.
- Geometric patterning - again wallpapers are a great way to bring this into your home.
Furnishings Direct is an online retailer of
bedding,
wallpaper and
paint.
