Scandinavian interior design is known for both its simplicity and warmth. In a Scandinavian-inspired space, you’ll notice a leaning toward minimalism and find a combination of clean lines; organic shapes; a mixture of textures; soft, warm color tones; and furnishings that are functional, beautiful, and comfortable.
And it’s no surprise that this cozy, inviting style has become a popular interior design choice in Minnesota where Scandinavian roots run deep. Here are eight great places to find Nordic design items in the Twin Cities:
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1) Golden Age Design
Located in Robbinsdale, Golden Age Design got its start by restoring and refinishing vintage Danish modern furniture. This is still a specialty of theirs; in fact, members of their team travel to Denmark to hand-select furniture to ship back to their shop! However, since launching their storefront, they’ve since expanded to offer design services and a shop full of home goods—new and vintage—which lean into the “beautiful and useful” mantra of Scandinavian design. They also have a particularly adorable and robust kids section. Image below courtesy of Golden Age Design.
2) Fika Design Group
Fika Design Group is a full-service design firm based in Plymouth, serving the Twin Cities and beyond. Fika is a Swedish custom, often in the workplace, that involves taking time each day to eat, drink coffee, and chat. And Fika Design Group owners Callie Jerde and Jennifer Severson started their company with that value of slowing down and taking time to chat and be together as a key tenant of how they interact with their design clients. In the same way that fika is all about the experience, so, too, is the heart and soul of this design firm.
3) Cindy Lindgren Art
Artist Cindy Lindgren creates beautiful digital designs that have a decidedly Scandinavian aesthetic. Her pieces focus on nature, Midwest landmarks and motifs, and architecture—plus a robust collection of Scandinavian cultural designs. She defines her design style as “Craftsman Nouveau,” taking elements of traditional Arts & Crafts style as her foundation but giving it a modern twist with clean and simple linework. She not only offers her designs as art prints, but she also applies them to cards, Swedish dishcloths, fabric, wallpaper, stickers, and more. Find Cindy’s work available for purchase in her Etsy shop. Image below courtesy of Cindy Lindgren Art Etsy shop.
4) American Swedish Institute
Not only can you take in incredible Scandinavian art and culture at the American Swedish Institute in Minneapolis, but you can also shop at their museum store. There, you’ll find a wide variety of Nordic and Nordic-inspired gifts and home goods that show off the very best of the Scandinavian aesthetic. Through frequent trips to the Nordic countries, the American Swedish Insitute partners with local artisans to curate their unique collection of products. While you’re there, be sure to check out the historic Turnblad Mansion and FIKA Cafe.
5) Scandinavian Designs
Want Scandinavian modern furniture from somewhere other than IKEA? Then it’s time to check out Scandinavian Designs in Roseville. They believe that Scandinavian design is more than just a style—it’s a way of living. The product selection at Scandinavian Designs is rooted in a love for Nordic culture, modern design and quality craftsmanship. In addition to furniture, you’ll also find a robust collection of decor under $100. Image below courtesy of Scandinavian Designs.
6) Ingebretsen’s
If you’re looking for genuine Nordic cultural goods, look no further than 100-year-old Ingebretsen’s in Minneapolis. Rather than selling goods that exemplify the popular Scandinavian Modern aesthetic, Ingebretsen’s bread and butter (or bread and Gjetost, as the case may be) is all about traditional cultural fare. At Ingrebretsen’s, you’ll find a selection of Nordic and Scandinavian food and beverages, as well as kitchen tools for traditional cooking and baking, home decor and textiles, clothing and jewelry, and a wonderful holiday collection. Ingebretsen’s also hosts classes and events.
7) Puustelli Kitchens
When it comes to creating that modern yet warm hygge feeling at home, you’ll find kitchen cabinetry and whole home cabinetry solutions at Puustelli Kitchens. Puustelli kitchen cabinetry is the pinnacle of European style combined with Nordic innovation, where cabinetry is made without non-toxic materials and added formaldehyde. At the Edina based showroom, located inside The District Edina, you’ll find a friendly team of designers and installers – many with first generation Nordic roots – making your new kitchen experience as authentic a Nordic experience as you’ll find in Minneapolis.
7) FinnStyle.com
This online retailer, specialized in Finnish design, home decor and food items, is based out of Golden Valley, just outside of downtown Minneapolis. Mixed with high end lighting, fabric and smaller furnishings, you’ll also find a vast selection of kitchen and dining items, candy and decorative accents that make for great gifts or additions to your own home. For anyone who loves the Moomin – Finland’s equivalent to Sesame Street characters – you’ll be sure to find something you love at FinnStyle.com. Last but not least, don’t forget to check out their sales section for a good deal any time of the year.
Where to find Hygge decor in the Twin Cities
If you’re looking to incorporate more Scandinavian design elements into your home—whether in the architecture and design or simply through decorative details—you can find what you’re looking for in the Twin Cities. This area is full of businesses that offer Scandinavian-style furniture and decor for homes that have that perfectly hygge vibe. Let us know if we’ve omitted your favorite place for Nordic finds and we’ll add it to our list!
