Style that is sweet as Scandi

White walls are essential in achieving a Scandinavian look. -- PHOTO: JOEY KHU DESIGN

The trend: Scandinavian

What: This Nordic-style approach is about looking modern, sleek and sharp, and is largely fuss-free.

Get the look: Inspired by Scandinavian nature and its winter season, clean white walls are a focal point of the design to reflect light and have a cheery, light feeling.

Floors can be tiled, although most owners opt for a dark wood finish to complement the light colours. A neutral colour palette of beige and natural light wood tones are used for the furniture.

To keep things contemporary, aluminium and steel are sometimes used as well.

In contrast, fabrics for curtains and tabletops or textile covers for sofas are often bright and tend to add the element of personality and play.

As decor is kept to a minimum, the style also features unusual accent pieces. It can range from a statement lamp to a quirky bookshelf to a fuzzy throw rug.

The use of one single colour on one item is also common, be it a fuchsia- toned sofa or a bright red wall.

Functionality is also a big part of this design. Furniture and storage pieces are more than just good to look at. Pick items that can help keep clutter to a minimum.

Designers say: Interior designer Joey Khu, of Joey Khu Design, saw the Scandinavian interior trend begin to catch on about two years ago.

Mr Khu, who works on 10 to 12 projects on his own in a year, says about half of his clients now ask for this style. He adds: 'It does not have a hard, masculine look from the previous minimalist trend of keeping just bare essentials. There's a softer, cosier look about Scandinavian-styled interiors. It's a trend that's not likely to go out of style fast.'

Interior designer Jane Tong of Zidane Design Associates says a big part of the appeal, especially for young couples decorating for the first time, is the budget.

The look is relatively affordable. She has worked on a project that cost about $20,000 as the materials are easy to get.

Ms Tong says: 'Previous minimalist styles don't come with a lot of furniture - it's quite spartan. With this look, even if it's not cluttered, you still can be stylish without spending too much.'

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