7 Ways to Bring the Bold Danish Decor Trend Into Your Home

Sometimes more is more.

It’s safe to say that just about everyone who cares about interior design is familiar with Scandinavian minimalism. Those simple lines, uncomplicated style and neutral tones have helped to create unburdened, effortless style in homes across the world.

But a new trend in Scandinavian design is on the rise, and unlike its predecessor, it’s a love affair of color, patterns and play. Dubbed Danish design, this vibrant - if slightly extravagant - interior design trend combines Denmark’s rich tradition of color with modern materials and simple, artistic design. What’s more, this surging movement is being led by some of the most renowned designers and artists out of the Nordic country.

Despite the careful flashes of color, thoughtful juxtaposition and haute design that characterizes this trend, bringing it into your home is actually simpler than it seems! Here are seven ways you can get on board with Danish design and brighten up your home.

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1. Embrace Maximalism

The latest Danish design trend is first and foremost about fun. And while it takes its cues from the classic Scandi simplicity, it also toys with a touch of maximalist excess. Shelves filled to the brim with colorful collectibles, colorful, mismatched crockery and even floral prints are encouraged in this measured but extravagant design trend.

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2. Say goodbye to beige

Along with decorative minimalism, neutral palettes are the norm in Scandinavian interior design. But the newest trend in Danish decor is all about backing off the beige and giving color a chance. That’s not to say there’s no place at all for tasteful, relaxed tones! Rather than replacing every neutral surface with a technicolor showpiece, try using a splash of color here and there to bring your space to life.

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3. Break out the pastel paints

The latest Danish decor trend is a far cry from the tranquil, austere Scandi look, but at its core, it evokes the same calm and simplicity. Pastel colors are the perfect way to introduce color into a space without losing that iconic ease and sense of quiet. You can try it yourself by giving an old furniture piece a pastel makeover to subtly fill a room with color. Alternatively, you could opt for a more cozy comfort and switch those bedroom walls to a gentle baby blue.

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4. Power clashing

After years of almost inescapable minimalism, the latest trend in Danish design is all about going bold. And power clashing is a fantastic way to bring some of that bold energy into your space while also bringing your various decor items into conversation with each other. Try nesting your angular furniture or decor together with more organically-shaped items, or clashing colors for an eye-catching display. Some thoughtful juxtaposition can help the best features of any piece stand out.

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5. Get Eclectic

When it comes to interior design, there are no hard and fast rules. Creating your space should always be about expressing your values and surrounding yourself with what you love. This Danish design trend favors bold, thoughtful curation, not just decoration to conventional design themes. That means you can pair your favorite set of modern dining chairs with a vintage table, or frame a woven tapestry with striking ink prints if you want to. Getting eclectic means putting your love into a space and letting each piece tell its own story.

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6. Mix tradition with modernity

While it certainly doesn’t shy away from modern features, this Danish design trend is in some ways a call back to the traditional culture of the Nordic country. Between the liberal use of color and the combination of modern and rustic materials, this trend tastefully marries the old ways with the new. To emulate this look, try decorating your modern couch with a patchwork quilt, or pairing a traditional jute rug with a glass coffee table.

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7. Pattern play

Eye-catching patterns go hand in hand with the decorative boldness of Danish design. Patterns, big or small, are a simple way to break up the solid colors of your decorative scheme and train the eye on particular features. A few brightly-colored, patterned cushions can gorgeously accent a uni-color couch, while a black and white patterned vase can help to make the colors around it pop.