When summer rolls in, there’s nothing quite like enjoying it from your own beautifully styled garden. If you’re drawn to neutral tones, natural textures, and unfussy elegance, then a Scandi outdoor space might just be your seasonal love affair.
In this post, I’m sharing simple, effortless ways to transform your patio, balcony, or garden into a calm, minimalist escape—Scandinavian style.
There’s something undeniably soothing about the Scandinavian approach to design—its simplicity, its connection to nature, and the way it quietly transforms everyday spaces into sanctuaries. That’s why it translates beautifully into outdoor living too.
Whether you’re working with a small urban balcony or a spacious garden, Scandi outdoor spaces are about creating a feeling of calm and understated comfort.
🌿 1. Keep the Colour Palette Calm and Cohesive
The foundation of Scandi design is its muted, natural palette. Think whites, soft greys, sand tones, and faded greens. These shades not only reflect light beautifully in the summer sun but also create a clean, cohesive look that feels calming and chic.
💡 Tip: Keep your textiles and tableware within the same soft colour family for an instantly curated look.
🪵 2. Prioritise Natural Materials
Wicker, rattan, light wood, linen—Scandi spaces are all about texture. Mix and match different natural materials for a relaxed, layered feel. Add a jute rug underfoot, a slatted wooden table, and some woven lanterns to bring it all together.
💡 Affiliate Opportunity:
This woven seagrass lantern from H&M Home would be perfect here.
🕯 3. Create a Warm Glow with Soft Lighting
Evenings outdoors should feel magical. Use warm-toned solar lights, battery-powered paper lanterns, and candles in hurricane jars to create that signature Scandi glow.
💡 Tip: Drape fairy lights through tree branches or around your pergola for a soft, inviting ambience.
🪑 4. Keep Furniture Functional and Clean-Lined
Less is more with Scandi styling. Choose slimline benches, foldable bistro sets, or timber chairs with simple cushions. Avoid anything overly ornate or fussy.
💡 Top Pick:
Amazon’s Acacia Wood Outdoor Bench pairs perfectly with neutral throws and outdoor linen cushions.
🪴 5. Greenery, But Keep It Curated
Instead of a riot of blooms, Scandi outdoor spaces lean into structured plants like olive trees, boxwood, or potted herbs. Use matching planters in matte black or off-white to keep it cohesive.
💡 Bonus: Small container gardens are perfect for balconies too—especially if you’re tight on space.
🍹 6. Style a Scandi Outdoor Space Drinks Station
If you’re hosting, keep it simple with sparkling water, lemon slices, and minimal serveware. Use a natural tray and clear glassware for that relaxed-luxury look.
🪑 7. Easy Scandi Summer Table Setting
If you’re hosting outdoors, lean into Scandi simplicity with your table styling. Use a soft linen table runner, a cluster of unscented pillar candles, and a single vase of wildflowers or fresh herbs. Keep your tableware neutral—stoneware, matte ceramics, or clear glass is perfect.
💡 Tip: Let the food be part of the decor—wooden boards, fresh berries, and iced lemon water always look the part.
✨ Final Thoughts: Scandi Simplicity, Summer Serenity
Creating a Scandi outdoor space is all about letting nature breathe, choosing pieces that serve a purpose, and styling with intent. Whether you’ve got a balcony, a courtyard, or a full garden to play with, these tips will help you make it feel calm, cosy, and curated.
Want more styling ideas? Don’t forget to follow Nook & Find on Pinterest and pin this post to your summer board!
