What Scandinavians always seem to achieve so effortlessly is a inherent sense of balance and calm. I think this is largely due to their focus on soothing natural palettes and materials. Several times I've laughed when discussing colour palettes with clients who have said their like 'natural palettes' but are shocked and confused if I suggest all white, I always reply, 'We live in Canada, of course all white is a 'natural palette'. All white with accents in black conjures up images of a snow covered landscape with bare trees that appear black against the crisp white. Clearly the Scandinavians have taken their natural surroundings to heart and feel quite at ease with all white. This provides a quiet background for another Scandinavian obsession - natural wood. This adds the much needed warmth for the cool all white environment.
The home of Danish designer Hanne Berzant whose nature inspired line By Nord, embodies these Scandinavian sensibilities beautifully. Images of Scandinavian wildlife adorn the pieces from her collection throughout the home and bring a little bit of the outdoors into this natural environment.
* Love this easy idea- paint simple black polka dots on a white paper lantern, for a little hit of pattern.
{Photos: Heidi Lerkenfeldt, Styling Pernille Vest and Bolette Kiaer/ Linnea Press for Living Etc February 2012}























