What makes a kitchen “Scandinavian”? The style is celebrated for its clever incorporation of natural light—essential in northern climates with long, dark winters—as well as light, neutral color palettes. Wood is dominant while textiles like linen, cotton, and the rogue sheepskin can be thrown in the mix to add texture and comfort. Touches of stone, leather, and ceramics reinforce an organic, earthy aesthetic.Of course, it’s not all about looks: there’s also an emphasis on functionality, with sensible, no-nonsense layouts to make food prep and clean up easy. Trying to get your own Scandinavian kitchen? Luckily, you don’t need to renovate to bring the look home. Below, we’ve rounded up fifteen ideas to make your own cook space feel more cool, calm, and collected: in other words, Scandi.1Wabi SabiWilliam Jess LairdEarth tones are a hallmark of Scandinavian design. These muted hues blend seamlessly with the wooden finishes and the natural light flooding the space. Open shelving prioritizes accessibility while showcasing tableware and décor in a curated, clutter-free manner.2Bright and LightWilliam Jess LairdNatural light plays a central role in this space, with large windows and skylights maximizing brightness. Stainless steel appliances and a black countertop provide a modern contrast while ensuring durability and easy maintenance, while the hanging pot rack showcases tools as both functional and decorative elements.Advertisement - Continue Reading Below3Rustic Farmhouse Douglas FriedmanRustic wood elements like the weathered table and stools bring warmth and texture to this otherwise crisp kitchen. This contrast emphasizes the Scandinavian love for natural and organic materials, connecting the interior to nature while ensuring the space feels inviting and livable.4Soft SageDouglas FriedmanThis soft sage green kitchen in a Sonoma, California estate designed by Ken Fulk creates a calm and welcoming atmosphere, while the chevron pattern adds a touch of texture and craftsmanship. Attention to details, such as the brass fixtures and pendant light, infuses the space with warmth.Advertisement - Continue Reading Below5MonochromaticDouglas FriedmanIn this kitchen by Nicole Hollis, the cabinetry, absent hardware and defined by clean lines, emphasizes simplicity. The monochromatic color palette, dominated by soft beige and light wood tones, not only keeps the design cohesive but also brightens the space.6Compact and SubtleKirsten FrancisThis kitchen by Augusta Hoffman features a marble backsplash that acts as a subtle yet elegant focal point, adding texture and visual interest while maintaining the space’s overall clean and airy look. Integrated task lighting enhances the space's functionality while glass paneling introduces openness and increased light.Advertisement - Continue Reading Below7Modern and DurableSimon WilsonIn the kitchen of a New Zealand home with interiors by Jenni Kayne, the gray limestone kitchen island is paired with barstools by BDDW for a modern touch that maintains the softness of the overall design. The grey limestone kitchen island, contrasted with pendants by Rose Uniacke, aligns with Scandinavian principles of incorporating durable materials to ensure functionality without sacrificing beauty.8High-ContrastMagdalena BjörnsdotterWhite walls create a bright, airy atmosphere and reflect natural light in this minimalist design. Black accents, such as the chair cushions, decorative lantern, and hardware, create contrast while the pendant light, crafted from natural wood, brings an organic touch that softens the space and ties it to the Scandinavian affinity for incorporating natural elements. 9Sleek and SimpleRikki SnyderThis kitchen design is balanced by touches of subtle detailing, such as the shiplap ceiling and subway tile backsplash, which add quiet textural interest without overwhelming the minimalist palette. Functionality is a key feature, as demonstrated by the practical yet stylish central island, which provides ample workspace and seating.10Mid-CenturyTrevor TondroIndoor greenery and a bold monstera leaf vase add natural texture and a pop of color to this minimalist Scandinavian kitchen. Combined with functional elements like seamless cabinetry and a practical island, these features strike a perfect balance between utility and beauty.Advertisement - Continue Reading Below11California ModernTrevor TondroIn the Los Angeles home of Sophia Bush, a mid-century George Nelson light fixture and stools from the Danish brand HAY are juxtaposed against a sheepskin stool and bright foliage for a perfectly Scandinavian vibe.12Eclectic and PracticalTrevor TondroOpen shelving lends a practical yet stylish element to this kitchen, showcasing neatly arranged mugs and utensils without cluttering the space. The clean white cabinetry with recessed handles emphasizes simplicity as much as usefulness.Advertisement - Continue Reading Below13Modern FarmhouseMICHAEL CLIFFORDIn the kitchen of the Jenni Kayne Farmhouse, large windows reinforce the connection to nature while a simple Roman shade adds privacy while maintaining the minimalist aesthetic. Decorative touches—such as the ceramic vases and soft lighting—imbue the space with a cozy, lived-in feel without detracting from the clean design.14English CountryAdrian GautThe kitchen of this Houston home, designed by Ashe Leandro, features light blue cabinetry that creates a calm, inviting atmosphere, while also introducing subtle color to the neutral overall palette—a common approach in Scandinavian interiors to maintain serenity while avoiding monotony. The butcher block countertop on the island adds warmth and texture, while the rattan bar stools bring a sense of casual, rustic charm to the space.Advertisement - Continue Reading Below15Moody and RichChris MottaliniSlatted details introduce a handcrafted, organic quality that softens the otherwise clean and contemporary lines of the cabinetry in this Scandinavian kitchen. The use of rich, dark marble for the countertops and islands creates a striking contrast to the lighter wood tones of the cabinetry and exposed beams.Sean SantiagoDeputy EditorSean Santiago is ELLE Decor's Deputy Editor, covering news, trends and talents in interior design, hospitality and travel, culture, and luxury shopping. Since starting his career at an interior design firm in 2011, he has gone on to cover the industry for Vogue, Architectural Digest, Sight Unseen, PIN-UP and Domino. He is the author of The Lonny Home (Weldon Owens, 2018), has produced scripted social content for brands including West Elm and Streeteasy, and is sometimes recognized on the street for his Instagram Reels series, #DanceToDecor