Light and design in Scandinavian style: a harmonious relationship
01/11/2024
Light plays the leading role in Scandinavian design – and for good reason. With long, eternal twilights in northern Europe, people develop a special relationship with light. The constant change between shadow and light has created a natural sensitivity to nuance. Scandinavians instinctively know how light can have different effects – whether warm or cool, direct or indirect. It is precisely this play with light and shadow that has become a trademark of their design.
Minimalism meets cosiness: light wood, soft colors and clear lines reflect the light optimally and create a calm, inviting atmosphere. Lighting concepts are deliberately kept soft, with dimmable lights that adapt to the time of day and give the room just the right amount of brightness.
The lighting concepts in Scandinavian design are subtle and sophisticated: Each luminaire plays with the room, gently diffusing the light and creating an atmosphere that is both relaxing and invigorating. Dimmable lamps are part of the standard repertoire to adapt the light to the changing times of day and year. This is where brands such as Louis Poulsen and designers such as Poul Henningsen stand out in particular. The famous PH series by Henningsen was developed in such a way that it directs the light in a targeted manner and reflects it in a pleasant way – rooms are illuminated harmoniously without the light dazzling. Every nuance is carefully placed, every reflection used in a targeted manner.
Then there is Le Klint the master of hand-folded lampshades that diffuse the light gently through the room. Since the 1940s, Le Klint has shown that lamps can do more than just shine: With hand-folded shades that look almost like works of art, the light is refracted and bathed in a soft, almost poetic nuance that spreads a soothing warmth. Thanks to this lighting art, rooms become homely and calming.
A love of light and a deep sensitivity to its nuances have led to a genuine design philosophy in the Scandinavian style. Here, light is not just a necessity, but the core of every sense of space. With design icons such as Louis Poulsen and Le Klint masterfully capturing the character of light, Scandinavian style shines a light on a way of life that inspires people and brightens up everyday life – literally. (Pun intended. Sorry, we couldn’t help ourselves…)
holm° is showing many different luminaire designs from both companies in the exhibition.
Don’t miss the short movie below from the Le Klint studio.
Le Klint 1
PH 5 Mini
Caleo 126
PH5
Detail von Le Klint 1
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Anna Berg
Interior Design Lead
The founder of holm, Anna Berg, was born in Sweden and has been running holm for 20 years. As Interior Design Lead, she is responsible for all our interior design projects.
Marcel Szalata
Interior Designer
Marcel Szalata uses his in-depth analysis and creative vision to develop customised living concepts that are tailored to the needs of our customers.