X
X

36 Insanely Beautiful Scandinavian Decorating Ideas For A Cozy Christmas

By | Updated on November 14, 2026

Filed Under: Inspiration

Post Comments

1 comment

Candles, fresh greenery, gnomes and dried oranges for a Nordic-style holiday.

Four Scandinavian Christmas scenes: an attic living room with a greenery chandelier, a lighted Christmas tree with metal stars, a white rocking chair beside a decorated tree, and a sled with a lantern in the snow

❤️ Would you like to save this?

We'll email this article to you, so you can read it later!

By saving, we'll email this post to you for later. Unsubscribe anytime.

Have yourself a Scandinavian Christmas filled with layers of cozy texture, inviting warmth, and holiday traditions that will create lasting memories. If you find that your decorating style leans towards simplicity yet a beautiful style aesthetic, then it would be no surprise that the Nordic style would be your go-to inspiration.

Since Sweden has long dark days during the month of December, plenty of snowfall, and freezing cold temperatures, they make up for this with stylish holiday decor. This includes layers and layers of cozy textures, lots of lights, candles, and wonderful holiday traditions. Whether you live in a small apartment or a family home, the Nordic style can be used to warm up your space for the holidays.

When decorating for a Scandinavian-style Christmas, try using dried pine cones and orange slices for decorations and Christmas presents. Crocheted snowflakes are also nice to use in decoration — hang them in the window, on the Christmas tree, as decorations on Christmas presents, etc. 

Continue below to see our collection of stunning Scandinavian Christmas ideas that will help you to infuse some Scandi-style vibes into your home this holiday season. Below each of the images, you will get further details and links to each of the sources. Don’t forget to add your favorites to Pinterest, and while you are there, be sure to follow us: https://www.pinterest.com/onekindesign/

Tell Us: Which one of these Scandinavian Christmas ideas most inspired you? Let us know in the Comments below!

1. Oh Christmas Tree

Christmas tree with red and white heart ornaments and string lights in a garden room, with a lantern and a wrapped gift on an old wooden sled

This Christmas tree is in the garden room. Enamel hearts are hung on the tree that can withstand hanging outside. A “Christmas present” made of paving stones has been placed on an old wooden sled under the tree. (via @livetpalahaugen)

2. Kitchen Window Decorations

Kitchen window at night with hand-drawn white Christmas designs, crocheted snowflakes, embroidered curtains and red candle holders

Candles in the window illuminate some festive curtains. Crotched snowflakes hang from the curtains for a fun visual effect, while vinyl decals add a festive touch to the windows. (via @janne_paalandet)

3. Christmas Lighted Houses

Green wall shelf with lighted metal houses and a pinecone wreath, with a fresh evergreen wreath hanging below

In the winter months in Sweden, the evenings are very dark. So there is only one thing to do, and that is to light a candle. These lighted houses decorate a shelf, which can be added anywhere in your home for some Christmas magic. The DIY Christmas wreath has a vintage feel to it. (via @livetpalahaugen)

4. Christmas Decorated Kitchen

Cozy kitchen with red plaid curtains, gingerbread hearts in the window, red candles and a striped table runner

Create a warm and cozy feel in your kitchen with red accents including your tablecloth, candles, and decorations. Layer in some traditional scents, such as gingerbread, orange with cloves, and pine. (via @skogmesterboligen)

5. Christmas Table Setting

Christmas table in a log cabin with white taper candles, small deer figures on a rustic wood board and glass ornaments hanging overhead

This beautiful dining table features hanging ornaments and LED candles in place of a chandelier. A rustic wood centerpiece is adorned with small deer, pine branches (you can also use moss), candles, and a small tree. (via @sofiesfarmor)

6. Decorated Christmas Cabin

Log cabin with weathered wood double doors and two pinecone wreaths, with a sled of firewood and small evergreen trees in the snow

This cozy cabin in Norway features beautiful reclaimed doors decorated with wreaths. An old wooden sled is adorned with cut logs and pine branches. (via @hverdagslykkelise)

7. A Country Cottage Christmas

Christmas tree with candle lights, Norwegian flag garlands and silver tinsel beside a white dining table with candles

This dining room has an incredibly beautiful and warm Christmas atmosphere. The Christmas tree has small candle lights for a magical glow, which is repeated on the dining table. (via @livetpalahaugen)

8. White Balls And Bells

Curved staircase with an evergreen garland, pinecones, white ornaments and bells, with candles and lanterns at the base

Close-up of a staircase garland with pinecones, white ornaments, white bells and fairy lights

This elegant Christmas staircase is adorned with pine branches, pinecones, white bells, and ornaments. A strip of LED lights runs through the garland to provide a warm and magical ambiance in the evening time. The garland combines a natural garland intertwined with an artificial one. Hang pine cones and white Christmas decorations.

9. Plush Holiday Gnomes

Plush gnomes with red and gray hats on a windowsill, with snow-covered trees outside and a paper star above

These cozy gnomes in the windows provide a Christmas mood in Winterland. The snowy backdrop through the window provides a magical atmosphere. (via @mitt_landlige_hjem)

10. Beautifully Wrapped Presents

Gifts wrapped in kraft paper with striped ribbon, evergreen sprigs and dried orange slices on a rustic wood table with gold taper candles

Wrap your gifts in a beautiful Scandinavian style using simple elements such as evergreen clippings, string, ribbon, dried oranges, faux berries, simple tags, and kraft paper. (via @livetpalahaugen)

11. Fresh Christmas Tree

Small evergreen tree in a galvanized bucket beside a white front door with bundles of pine branches hanging from the handles

Welcome guests up to your front porch with a freshly chopped Christmas tree set in a galvanized bucket. A collection of pine branches are bundled with rope and neatly tied in a bow to hang from the doorknobs. (via @vartlillagrona)

12. Gingerbread House Display

Gingerbread houses with white icing displayed on a white kitchen table with gingerbread heart cookies and a candle

Fun for the whole family, use a gingerbread kit or find a traditional family recipe to bake gingerbread houses, decorate them, and put them on display. These gingerbread houses will look festive on your family dessert table for Christmas. TIP: Add small LED tealight candles through an open door in your gingerbread house for a magical glow. (via @livetpalahaugen)

13. Christmas Tree With Snow

Snow-covered Christmas tree with string lights in a wicker basket beside a wreath and a lantern on a white chair, against a red wood wall

This cozy and magical atmosphere features a freshly cut tree in a basket illuminated with string lights for Christmas. A wreath, some pine branches, and a lantern add to the welcoming environment… along with a fresh snowfall! (via @nina.haug)

14. Cozy Red & White

White bench with a red and white striped pillow, elf dolls and a fringed throw below red gingham curtains, with a small lighted tree in a basket

A bench in the kitchen invites the Christmas spirit with lovely red and white decorations. Everything from checkered curtains to red and white striped pillows and a textured throw. A small lighted tree in a basket completes the warm aesthetic. (via @mitt_landlige_hjem)

15. Merry Christmas Presents

Gifts wrapped in kraft paper with painted white dots, white pompoms and red and white twine on a white fur throw

These lovely gift-wrapping ideas are inspired by snow with painted snowflakes and pompoms on the ribbons. (via @cheflovesgarden)

16. Dining Room Ornament Chandelier

Christmas table with deer figures, greenery and candles in a black centerpiece box, below a branch hung with green and glass ornaments

This inviting dining table features natural tones for warmth. A wooden box is used as the centerpiece, filled with pine branches, pine cones, small deer, and white taper candles. A hanging branch is used as a decorative Christmas chandelier with hanging ornaments and clear glass orbs illuminated with candles. (via @sofiesfarmor)

17. Swedish Advent Calendar

Advent calendar of kraft paper bags framed by an evergreen garland on a white wall beside a green door

Just outside the kitchen, a garland on the wall frames an “Advent Calendar” for the countdown to Christmas. Swedish tradition kicks off every Sunday at the beginning of December. Starting with the lighting of a candle, a present from the calendar is also opened by loved ones. This includes items such as socks, underwear, some sweets, and Christmas decorations. (via @livetpalahaugen)

18. Elegant Table Setting

Table setting with brass candlesticks, white candles, pinecones, cedar sprigs and dried orange slices on a rustic wood table

Set your table with natural elements of fresh pine branches, pinecones, and dried orange slices. Add brass candle sticks with white pillar candles, glass stemware, white plates, and neutral napkins tied with a burlap ribbon and a pine branch. TIP: Dry the orange slices on a cookie sheet in the oven at 120° for 2-3 hours. (via @livetpalahaugen)

Related Stories

73 Brilliant Scandinavian Christmas Decorating IdeasScandinavian Christmas dining room with a tree, paper star and sheepskins on white chairs
33 Cozy Rustic Christmas Decorating Ideas You’ll Love This Holiday SeasonLiving room with a Christmas tree and a garland on the fireplace mantel

19. A Scandinavian Christmas

Christmas tree with red and gold ornaments beside a white rocking chair with a striped pillow, gnomes on the windowsill and a paper star

A Christmas tree decorated with red, white, gold, and touches of silver adorns this cozy living space. Layer in accents of pillows and throws for warmth. (via @mitt_landlige_hjem)

20. Scandinavian Christmas Balcony

Balcony with a lighted wreath, garland, fur throws and lanterns overlooking snowy mountains at dusk

Invite your holiday guests onto the balcony decked out with cozy textures, a beautiful garland, a wreath, and a Christmas tree. A magical atmosphere is created with lanterns and added string lights. (via @cheflovesgarden)

21. The Joy Of Christmas

Front porch with white lanterns, a crate of firewood, pine branches, red apples and white ice skates hanging by the door

Greet your guests on the front porch with a cozy collection of illuminated lanterns, a crate with chopped wood, pine branches, and old skates. (via @livetpalahaugen)

22. Dreaming Of A White Christmas

Living room with wood-paneled walls, a lighted Christmas tree, a linen sofa with a white Christmas pillow and a rustic wood coffee table

This cozy Swedish living room features plenty of warmth with throws, pillows, and fur pelts. The lighted tree adds to the holiday magic. (via @husetpaanordseth)

23. Front Yard Holiday Decoration

Old wooden sled in the snow with a canvas backpack of wrapped gifts and a lantern, in front of a lighted Christmas tree and a white house

When decorating for Christmas, don’t forget to add a few trinkets to your yard for a festive look. This one features an old wooden sled topped with a bag filled with wrapped presents and a lighted lantern. A lighted tree serves as the perfect backdrop. (via @livetpalahaugen)

24. Cozy Christmas Vignette

White cabinet with a small tree with red ornaments in a white bowl, a girl figurine holding a candle, red candle holders and floral cups

A color scheme of traditional red, white, and green makes this dining room display cabinet feel warm and cozy. The Norwegian girl figurine candle holder is by Carl Larsson and distributed by Candy Designs of Norway (can be found on eBay). (via @mitt_landlige_hjem)

25. Swedish Advent Candle

Four numbered white advent candles in a vintage wood crate with pine branches on a rustic dining table

When it comes to Swedish Christmas festivities, many households take a moment to light advent candles, along with other family traditions. The four Sundays leading up to Christmas are celebrated by lighting a candle, for a magical and cozy experience. (via @livetpalahaugen)

26. A Snowy Nordic Christmas

Snowy garden with a fire pit, rattan chairs with fur throws, lanterns, hanging jar candles and a lighted Christmas tree, with mountains beyond

This winter garden features a cozy place with seating, a fire pit, and lots of lighting. Cozy blankets and cushions will help keep guests warm and comfortable. A Christmas tree in the background adds to the magical holiday ambiance. (via @cheflovesgarden)

27. A Cozy Nordic Christmas

Front porch with a straw goat, lanterns, a wood barrel, a red pillow on a wicker chair and a heart wreath on a dark green door

Vintage decorations provide a welcoming outdoor environment for the holidays. Layer in some lanterns and string lights to add a magical glow. (via @dusogsus)

28. Warm Christmas Atmosphere

Attic living room with skylights, a greenery chandelier with candles, a Christmas tree with candle lights and gifts wrapped in kraft paper

This cozy living space features natural decor and minimalist Christmas tree decorations. The tree is decorated with large silver snowflakes and LED candles. Similar LED Christmas tree candles can be found on Balsam Hill. (via @marzena.marideko)

29. Christmas Candles

Two floral tea cups filled with moss, frosted berries, ornaments and red candles on a red striped tablecloth

A cozy way to add some small decorations to your kitchen or dining table. Repurpose your favorite tea cups, layer in some holly, pine branches, or moss, a small ornament, and a candle (set in a small holder at the bottom of the cup) for ambiance. (via @mitt_landlige_hjem)

30. Cozy Winter Bedroom

Bedroom at night with a lighted Christmas tree in a basket, string lights and small twine trees and tree candles on a wood bench

Small trees, ornaments, and cozy textures decorate this bedroom. Set in a rattan basket, the large Christmas tree provides a magical atmosphere. The beautiful “Merry Christmas” print on the wall is made by @muural_. (via @marzena.marideko)

31. Christmas Magic

Christmas tree with copper and frosted ornaments and warm white lights in a wicker tree collar, surrounded by large metal stars

Beautiful ornaments and large stars and glistening lights add a festive scene to this living space. (via @alinea)

32. DIY Wooden Christmas Tree

Zigzag wooden Christmas tree beside a faux fireplace filled with candles in a living room with an exposed brick wall and string lights

To make this tree, here are the instructions: The height of the Christmas tree-189cm; The width of the base/bottom – 102cm; The width of the board – 14cm; An angle bar and a smaller board as a stand. Lay the planks overlapping on the floor, back to back. Lay it out on the floor and use a pencil to mark a line from the top to the base of your tree (arms of the triangle) or use a chalk line. If you like the layout of the boards, screw the whole thing together. Use a saw or a jigsaw to cut the remaining edges along the marked lines to create a triangular Christmas tree shape. Screw the angle bar to the base or make a recess for the crossbar and you’re done. Get more details at the provided link. (via @marzena.marideko)

33. Cozy Advent Calendar

Advent calendar of kraft paper bags and lighted twine balls hanging from a branch on the wall

This wall calendar offers a nice countdown to Christmas and a pleasant tradition. Inside you will find everything from sweets to useful things in everyday life or even things picked up on our travels. (via @hyttedesigneren)

34. A Fairytale Entrance

Front door at night framed by a lighted garland, with lanterns, small snow-covered trees in baskets and a white sleigh

Light up your front porch with Christmas trees, lanterns, and garland framing the doorway. Large stars and wreaths accent the windows and door. (via @elinstad)

35. Around The Christmas Tree

Christmas tree with gold and red ornaments, straw stars and fairy lights, with crates of oranges on the stone floor

The centerpiece of holiday decor. Whether natural or synthetic, traditional or innovative, with abundant or minimalist ornaments, decorating it is always a magical moment. (via @alinea)

36. Swedish Christmas Gnomes

Dark wall shelf with four gray gnomes, lighted white houses and a twig wreath, with three stockings hanging below

If you don’t have a fireplace, this shelf would make a wonderful alternative for hanging your Christmas stockings. Decorate with gnomes, lighted houses, and a wreath. (via @elinstad)

How to Get the Scandinavian Christmas Look at Home

  • Start with a neutral color palette. Scandinavian homes are decorated in white, cream, and natural wood, with touches of red or green for Christmas. These white Christmas decorating ideas show how pretty this palette can be.
  • Bring in fresh greenery. Fill a basket or bucket with pine and spruce branches, hang a wreath, or drape a Christmas garland along a shelf or doorway.
  • Light plenty of candles. December days are short in Scandinavia, so you will see them in the windows, on the dining table, and in lanterns by the front door. Use LED ones near fresh greenery.
  • Use natural and handmade decorations. Dried orange slices, straw ornaments, paper stars, and crocheted snowflakes are inexpensive and easy to make.
  • Pile on warm textures. Drape sheepskins and chunky knit throws over chairs and benches, and toss in a few wool pillows.
  • Keep the tree simple. Set a fresh tree in a basket and add white lights with just a few ornaments. You will find plenty of Christmas tree ideas here.
  • Add a gnome or two. Known as a tomte in Sweden and a nisse in Norway and Denmark, these little bearded figures are a Scandinavian Christmas tradition.
  • Decorate outside, too. Set a lantern, an old wooden sled, and a small tree by the front door. Our outdoor Christmas decorating ideas are worth a look as well.

MORE CHRISTMAS INSPIRATION

If you love natural materials, see these rustic Christmas decorating ideas and farmhouse Christmas decor ideas. We also have Christmas mantel ideas for the fireplace, Christmas table setting ideas for the dining room, and easy Christmas decorating ideas if you are short on time.

Subscribe
Notify of
1 Comment
Debra
3 years ago

I love your creativity in decorating. The bells in white are beautiful. Just everything you do is fabulous. Brings peace and joy and calms my mind on stressful days.
❤️

4
Reply