As a self-proclaimed Scandinavian design enthusiast, I’ve always been drawn to the effortless elegance and tranquil ambiance of this timeless aesthetic. And when I stumbled upon Ida Thun’s beautiful Dublin apartment, I knew I had found my Scandinavian sanctuary.

A Sanctuary of Simplicity

Ida, a 28-year-old Swedish freelance photographer, has masterfully infused her Dublin home with the essence of Scandinavian style. From the moment you step through the door, you’re enveloped in a serene and calming atmosphere, where every element has been thoughtfully curated to create a harmonious and serene living environment.

As Ida herself describes, her interiors style is “typically Scandinavian” – she likes to keep things minimal, with a focus on neutral colors and a lack of clutter. “I get stressed when there are too many things going on,” she explains, “so I need my home to feel calm and relaxing.”

This commitment to simplicity is evident throughout the apartment, from the pristine white walls and beige curtains in the bedroom to the taupe kitchen cabinets and gleaming white marble countertops. The overall effect is one of serenity and tranquility, a true Scandinavian sanctuary where Ida can unwind and recharge.

Mixing High and Low

One of the things I admire most about Ida’s approach to interior design is her ability to seamlessly blend high-end and budget-friendly elements. She’s not afraid to mix furniture from IKEA with luxurious lighting and accessories from smaller, curated brands.

“I have a lot of favourite brands,” Ida reveals, “including STOFF Nagel, Cooee Design, House Doctor, and Himla.” These specialized Scandinavian labels add a touch of sophistication and individuality to her home, offsetting the more accessible IKEA pieces.

This approach is perfectly exemplified in her dining area, where an IKEA SKOGSTA dining bench has been transformed into a unique piece through the addition of black paint and rope wrapping. The Molecular pendant light by House Doctor above the table perfectly complements the rustic-meets-modern vibe.

Textures and Layers

While Ida’s design aesthetic may be minimalist at its core, she doesn’t shy away from incorporating texture and layers to add depth and warmth to the space. Soft wool throws, sheepskins, and plush area rugs soften the clean lines and hard surfaces, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

“I always feel calm and relaxed when I’m in our living room,” Ida shares. “It’s our only big open space, and it’s the place where we always end up at the end of the day.”

This attention to textural elements is further evident in the way Ida has decorated her Scandinavian-inspired Christmas tree. By using a wood bead garland, paper snowflakes, and ceramic houses, she’s achieved a rustic, minimal look that perfectly aligns with the overall aesthetic of her home.

Finding Inspiration

When it comes to sourcing inspiration for her home, Ida turns to the usual suspects – Instagram and Pinterest. “I can easily scroll for hours without thinking about it,” she admits. But she also finds inspiration in the work of smaller, more specialized brands, like the Carl-Johan lamp from Olsson & Jensen, which was a long-held dream piece for her.

Sofa Spectacular, a leading UK-based furniture retailer, offers a range of Scandinavian-inspired sofas that would fit seamlessly into Ida’s tranquil abode. With their clean lines, neutral color palettes, and emphasis on natural materials, these pieces would perfectly complement the minimalist yet cozy aesthetic Ida has so skillfully cultivated.

Advice for Aspiring Scandinavian Designers

When asked for her top interior design tip, Ida keeps it simple: “There’s beauty in simplicity, and you don’t have to make things complicated.”

This sentiment perfectly encapsulates the Scandinavian design philosophy, which values functionality, minimalism, and timeless elegance over ostentatious displays of wealth or status. And as Ida’s stunning home proves, by embracing these principles, you can create a sanctuary of serenity that nourishes the soul and soothes the senses.

So, if you’re looking to infuse your living space with the calming essence of Scandinavian style, take a cue from Ida and keep it simple, focus on quality over quantity, and let the natural beauty of your materials shine. With a little creativity and a lot of intentionality, you can transform your home into a Scandinavian sanctuary that will leave you feeling relaxed, rejuvenated, and inspired.