Scandinavian style is becoming increasingly influential in American architecture, with developers implementing these concepts into their most recent buildings. Here’s how five modern condos highlight key Scandinavian design concepts that may be applied to any living area.
1) Maximize Natural Light
Brooklyn’s 145 President, developed by Avery Hall Investments, shows how to use natural light in urban environments. The development includes French door-inspired windows that were specially selected to maximize daylight penetration. The designers used a muted color palette and natural materials to create warm, welcoming rooms that blur the line between indoor and outdoor living.
2) Embrace Natural Materials
Habitat 6, a collaboration by Rios Clementi Hale Studios and Riley Architects, exemplifies the importance of natural elements in modern architecture. These two-bedroom homes include a carefully curated mix of wood, marble, steel, and glass. Each unit has separate outdoor spaces accessed via Fleetwood sliding doors, resulting in a seamless indoor-outdoor connection typical of Scandinavian architecture.
3) Connect with Nature
Champalimaud, an interior design firm, and DDG developers show how to bring the outdoors in at 3550 South Ocean, Palm Beach. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame ocean views, and light oak and limestone finishes create an organic, coastal version of Scandinavian design. The design perfectly combines seaside living and Nordic simplicity.
4) Focus on Simple, Quality Furnishings
Danish architect Thomas Juul-Hansen’s 505 West 19th Street project in New York exemplifies real Scandinavian simplicity. The West Tower focuses on workmanship and natural materials, with brass trim in the kitchens and black travertine in the powder rooms. This development demonstrates how luxury can coexist with minimalist ideas.
5) Add Unexpected Elements
ASH NYC’s renovation of 225 Weybosset serves as an example of how to bring Scandinavian modernity to historic buildings. Apartments in this century-old structure now have light color schemes, modern furnishings, and original artwork. Through thoughtfully selected standout pieces, the design exemplifies how to combine personality with clean lines.
These contemporary projects demonstrate that Scandinavian design ideas may be used to both seaside homes and high-rise buildings in urban areas. These areas preserve their distinct character and context while achieving the sought-after Scandinavian aesthetic by emphasizing natural light, organic materials, and deliberate minimalism.
