Scandinavian Flooring Style Ideas

Scandinavian design has a simple but luxurious aesthetic that elevates a home. This northern European style became popular during the modernist movement of the mid-20th century and remains a sought-after style. 

Scandinavian style is a minimalistic approach to design that focuses on natural materials and functional elements that highlight craftsmanship. You can mimic the simple but sophisticated charm of Nordic styles by choosing the right flooring. Exploring Scandinavian flooring style ideas can help you achieve the timeless appeal and serene atmosphere of Nordic homes.

Understanding Scandinavian Design Style 

Scandinavian style is rooted in Nordic culture and has several key characteristics:

• Natural materials: Scandinavian design places emphasis on natural materials and accessories throughout the home. Scandinavian culture has always emphasized the deep connection Nordic people have with nature, and this is reflected beautifully in Scandinavian design elements. You can emphasize this through your flooring by choosing wood and other flooring options with earthy textures and tones. 
• Monochrome colors: Nordic design emphasizes natural colors in a variety of shades, from white and cream to earthy gray and beige. Some Nordic designs also favor deeper monochromes, including charcoal colors. 
• Natural light: Scandinavian people experience long, dark winters, so the culture naturally prioritizes open, airy designs that maximize natural light. You can play on this Nordic design element by choosing a floor layout that maximizes space. By choosing lighter colors, you can create the illusion of space and openness. 
• Simple, clean lines: Scandinavian design prides itself on elegance and sophistication through clean lines and minimalistic elements.
• Craftmanship and functionality: Craftmanship is a standout feature of Nordic design. Since Nordic designs emphasize simplicity, it gives space for appreciating the skill, timelessness and sustainability behind designs. 

For floors, these design elements translate to options with neutral tones, simple textures, durability and a finish that accentuates modernity and minimalism. 

The Best Scandinavian Flooring Options

Two types of flooring stand out as excellent choices for Scandinavian-style homes — hardwood floors and luxury vinyl tile (LVT). 

Hardwood Flooring

Hardwood flooring is the top choice for recreating the Scandinavian style. Hardwood floors check all the boxes for Nordic design features — the material emphasizes nature, craftsmanship and durability. You can also find hardwood floors in various shades, making it easy to choose muted, monochromatic and neutral colors that showcase the Scandinavian style. Additionally, installing hardwood floors shows a good return on investment. 

Hardwood floors come in various options that suit Scandinavian styles: 

• Bamboo: Bamboo has a light, warm and natural aesthetic that suits the Scandinavian style exceptionally well. The warm honey tones and clean, simple grain of bamboo perfectly highlight the rustic and minimalistic characteristics of Nordic design. Bamboo is also a durable, sustainable and eco-friendly wood.
• Cali Bamboo: Craftmanship and durability are at the heart of Scandinavian design, and almost no other floors highlight these characteristics quite as well as Cali™ Bamboo. Cali Bamboo is twice the density of other hardwood floors thanks to a unique Fossilized® manufacturing process. These sustainable, durable floors come in a variety of styles and finishes, including bright tones with clean grains. 
• Domestic hardwood: Emphasizing human connection with nature is a core part of Nordic design. Domestic wood species are sourced locally, making them an eco-friendly and sustainable option. Domestic hardwood is also an excellent choice for prioritizing functionality. These species are durable and low maintenance. Even more importantly, domestic wood does not expand and warp like other species, making it perfect for high-humidity regions. 
• Exotic hardwood: Exotic wood and engineered exotic wood floors can have a unique, eye-catching look. Some exotic hardwood species have striking, intricate grains and dark, rich tones. For a Scandinavian aesthetic, it is best to choose exotic species with simpler grains and lighter tones. Brazilian oak suits the clean, minimalistic look of Nordic homes quite well. 

Luxury Vinyl Flooring 

LVT/LVP flooring is an excellent and affordable alternative to hardwood. Luxury vinyl flooring is available in a range of styles — including finishes that beautifully mimic the tones and textures of natural wood and stone. LVT is also a functional and comfortable flooring option thanks to its water-resistant properties and durability.

To create a cohesive Nordic design using LVT, you can explore wood-like designs with subtle grain patterns and a natural finish. 

Frequently Asked Questions on Scandinavian Flooring

Scandinavian flooring ideas may be a new concept you want to incorporate or a familiar design you want to implement well. The answers to these frequently asked questions can help simplify the process. 

What Are Some Tips for Incorporating Scandinavian Floors in Your Home? 

These three simple but effective tips can help you incorporate Nordic flooring:

• Stick to a light or neutral palette to showcase the simplicity and connection to nature found in Nordic designs.
• Choose floors with matte finishes so that the focus is on the natural texture and tone of your flooring. 
• Add an elegant area rug to your rooms to create interest and warmth. A beautiful area rug in a warm, earthy tone complements the simplicity of Scandinavian wood floors and LVT well and adds an extra dimension to your rooms. 

Do Scandinavian Floors Have to Be Expensive?

No! Scandinavian flooring certainly looks expensive — the modern design and focus on craftsmanship create a sophisticated look. While hardwood flooring can cost more than other types of floors, you can shop deals at flooring supercenters to save. Alternatively, LVT is an affordable, quality option that mimics hardwood well. 

Can You Incorporate Scandinavian Floors in Every Room of Your House? 

Scandinavian flooring style ideas are versatile enough to apply all around your home — from your living area and bedrooms to your kitchen and bathroom. One recommendation is to use water-resistant materials for high-moisture areas like your bathrooms and laundry room — making LVT an excellent choice for these areas. 

Shop at Carpet & Tile Mart for High-Quality Scandinavian Flooring Options

Scandinavian flooring contributes to the simple but sophisticated design of Nordic-style homes. Hardwood floors and LVT in natural finishes are worthwhile investments for adding Scandinavian character to your home. At Carpet & Tile Mart, we have a range of quality flooring options to suit your Nordic flooring style ideas.

We carry a wide collection of hardwood flooring, including bamboo, domestic and engineered domestic species, and exotic and engineered exotic species. We also offer various LVT flooring options, including LVT with natural finishes and other choices at affordable prices. You can also find beautiful rugs and other flooring solutions at our competitively priced flooring supercenters. 

Shop our hardwood and LVT products online today, or head to a Carpet & Tile Mart location near you to see our selection of the best Scandinavian flooring in person!