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Inspiration & Tips/Scandinavian lifestyle & Recipes/

Embracing slow living: How to create a peaceful home

Slow living is more than a lifestyle—it’s a philosophy that prioritizes mindfulness, sustainability, and intentional choices. At its core, it’s about slowing down and creating spaces that nurture relaxation and balance. Your home plays a pivotal role in this journey, offering a sanctuary from the fast-paced modern world. Here's how to design a peaceful home inspired by the principles of slow living.
Monday, July 1, 2024
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A Shift in Interior Design Trends

In recent years, interior design has moved away from material excess toward thoughtful consumption and longevity. This shift reflects a growing awareness of sustainability and a desire to connect with nature. Slow living embraces this mindset, focusing on quality over quantity and creating interiors that reflect personal values.

Natural materials, soft textures, and soothing colours define this approach. By incorporating these elements, you can craft a space that calms the mind and soul while offering a much-needed respite from the demands of daily life.

Minimalism and Slow Living Go Hand in Hand

Minimalism is a cornerstone of slow living, emphasizing simplicity and intentionality in all aspects of home design. Reducing clutter and choosing functional, durable items not only creates a visually serene environment but also supports a more sustainable lifestyle.

Bring Nature Indoors

Nature is an essential part of the slow living philosophy. Drawing inspiration from the natural world, you can use colours and textures that evoke calmness and balance. Neutral tones like beige, warm greys, and off-white mimic earth and sand, while accent hues such as forest green, ocean blue, and terracotta add a touch of vitality.

Natural wood finishes, woven textiles, and handcrafted ceramics further enhance the organic feel, creating a harmonious connection between your home and the outdoors.

White holds a central place in Scandinavian design, as it makes spaces appear larger, brighter, and more open. This sense of clarity and lightness provides the perfect foundation for creating an environment that embodies the principles of slow living. Complementing this aesthetic are light woods, which continue to dominate and add a natural, warm ambiance.

Contrasts are introduced through textiles and furniture in shades of black or charcoal, adding depth and character to the space. However, these darker accents are harmoniously balanced with earthy tones like brown and beige. This nature-inspired color palette fosters a sense of calm and serenity, showcasing how intentional design can seamlessly integrate the essence of slow living into your home, cultivating a tranquil and harmonious retreat.

Light colours with dark accents or wood tones create a relaxed atmosphere in your home.

Nature´s influence

Creating a peaceful home becomes effortless when incorporating elements from nature into your decor. Whether it’s freshly picked branches, a unique stone discovered in the forest, or reeds gathered by the coast, these natural touches add a distinctive and lasting charm to your space. They bring the serenity of the outdoors inside, fostering a sense of connection with the natural world.

Nature's prominent role in interior design is reflected in the choice of decorative pieces and materials. Natural textures paired with organic shapes evoke the soothing, fluid qualities of water. These elements not only support the principles of slow living but also transform your home into a haven of calm and balance.

Celebrate Handcrafted Textures

Slow living also encourages the appreciation of craftsmanship. Items like handwoven rugs, artisanal pottery, and blown glass carry a sense of individuality and care. These pieces add a personal touch to your home while reflecting the effort and artistry behind them.

Create Spaces for Rest and Reflection

A core tenet of slow living is prioritizing wellness and self-care. Design spaces in your home that invite rest and relaxation—whether it’s a cozy reading nook, a spa-like bathroom, or a peaceful bedroom.

Soft textiles, layered throws, and plush cushions in natural fabrics enhance comfort, while candles and calming scents add to the tranquil atmosphere. These mindful details turn your home into a haven where you can truly unwind.

Take time for yourself - whether you want to relax and read a book, go for a walk in the countryside or enjoy a spa day.

The Role of Sustainability in Slow Living

Slow living and sustainability are intrinsically linked. Choosing eco-friendly materials and investing in durable design are central to this approach. Beyond aesthetics, slow living encourages a shift in mindset—valuing experiences over possessions and quality over quantity.

@jonnakatrin

Checklist for a Slow Living Home

  • Maximize natural light and use mirrors to amplify its reflections.
  • Declutter and simplify your space to create a calming environment.
  • Add natural textures with rugs, wood, and woven fabrics.
  • Incorporate organic shapes in furniture and décor.
  • Opt for a calming color palette of earth tones, muted greens, and soft blues.
  • Include handcrafted pieces that tell a story and add personality.

Text: Ellinor Johansson; Photos: Skandinavisk, Ferm Living, Audo Copenhagen, Stelton, Mille Notti, Fine Little Day, Gejst, &tradition, Volant, String, Fellow, @jonnakatrin

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