Scandinavian Modernism

Scandinavian Modernism is the Nordic development of international modernist design, especially from the 1930s to the 1960s. It combined function and modern production with attention to materials, craftsmanship and everyday use.

Characteristics

Clean lines, balanced proportions and restrained decoration are typical. Wood, leather, wool, glass, ceramics and metal were used with respect for their qualities. Forms may be geometric or organic.

Background

Alvar Aalto, Arne Jacobsen, Hans J. Wegner and Bruno Mathsson helped attract international interest. Exhibitions, export and serial production spread Nordic design in the 1950s and 60s.

Related terms

Modernism is broad and international; Scandinavian design is a wider geographical label; Mid-century modern spans several countries. Scandinavian Modernism refers more precisely to the Nordic modernist tradition.