Scandinavian Kitchens
What Defines Scandinavian Kitchen Design?
Papilio’s Scandinavian bespoke kitchens are handcrafted in Somerset. Our made-to-measure designs are inspired by Nordic traditions, using natural materials, light palettes, and refined detailing.
Scandinavian kitchens are known for clean lines, an uncomplicated look, and a focus on function. They are not about strict minimalism, as they embrace softness, warmth, and personality. Scandinavian bespoke kitchens often feature natural materials, comfort, and character.
Some key features of a Scandinavian kitchen include light colours. From pale tones on work surfaces and kitchen cabinetry to stripped-back natural wood and natural stone, the background tones create a sense of lightness and space, with a hint of welcome.
Modern bespoke kitchens are defined by clean lines, sleek finishes, and an uncomplicated look, featuring smart integration with the latest technology and engineering. They showcase materials like wood, metal, and glass, as well as engineered options such as Richlite and Fenix, while avoiding elaborate hardware or embellishments. A modern kitchen should look effortless yet impressive with innovation and style.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Scandinavian kitchen easy to clean?
Good news! Yes. In fact, they are often easier to clean than traditional kitchens. Scandinavian kitchens are less adorned, so there are fewer nooks and crannies to clean.
Are Scandinavian kitchens expensive?
Our bespoke kitchens start at £30,000, including full service. We adapt to your materials, property size, and budget.
The kitchen will be for our second home. Will you help with styling to achieve a true Scandi style?
Absolutely! We can help with styling or recommending great makers, artisans and boutiques. We often work with interior designers, so we can make introductions.
Recent Scandinavian Kitchen Projects
Simplicity and restraint
Modern bespoke kitchens feature contemporary luxury materials and finishes—elements that can make or break the design. With a bespoke designer like Papilio, you access a wealth of knowledge and experience. Whether you prefer wood, stone, metal, or the latest engineered materials like Valchromat or Richlite, we design modern, bespoke kitchens that embrace luxury. Discover modern materials in our Cowbridge Kitchen in Wales, North London Kitchen, and Clifton Kitchen in Bristol. Explore our Kitchen Cabinets and Kitchen Islands pages to learn more about our craftsmanship.
Function before ornament
Scandinavian kitchens prioritise function over ornament. The movement is commonly called functionalism. Bespoke designs focus on efficiency and practicality. At Papilio, we do not use pre-determined templates; we offer a full range of design options, including custom storage, kitchen islands, and pantries to suit practical needs and enhance entertaining.
Good lighting is more than visibility—it enhances aesthetics, creates ambience, and improves functionality in modern bespoke kitchens. For our Georgian Manor House Kitchen in Somerset, we designed a Scandinavian-style kitchen featuring the iconic In The Tube, 360° light by Dominique Perrault & Gaëlle Lauriot-Prévost. Positioned above the handmade island, it makes a bold statement and supports prep work.
Poorly placed appliances can disrupt kitchen flow, so we work closely with clients for optimal integration. In our Cotswolds Manor House Kitchen, we tailored cabinetry and appliances to the chef’s needs and stature.
Natural Materials and Nordic Artisanry
Natural materials epitomise Scandinavian kitchens. Feature timber and ceramic flooring or splashbacks, alongside textiles and occasional chairs, to create the ultimate Nordic luxury design.
The Scandinavian style was made famous between the 1950s and 1970s and is known internationally as mid-century design. We love the iconic, simple yet highly crafted look, but we ultimately respect and are inspired by the artisanry of designers and makers of this time, including Hans J. Wegner, Greta Magnusson-Grossman and Rastad & Relling.
Oak, ash and light timber cabinetry
Lighter-toned timber cabinetry is integral to the Scandinavian kitchen style. Ash and oak work beautifully for both floors and cabinetry.
Oak is one of our favourite timbers for our bespoke Scandinavian kitchens. Its strength and durability make it ideal for our handmade kitchen islands and cabinetwork. Our North London Kitchen is a fine example of Scandi style. We selected a minimalistic, nature-inspired colour palette to establish a sense of calm and cohesion. Our team designed oak-finished cabinets to add warmth and texture. This balance of tones makes the rich textures of the materials the key attraction without overpowering the bespoke kitchen space.
Matte finishes and subtle hardware
Matte finishes and subtle hardware complement modern Scandinavian kitchens. Matte surfaces reduce glare and soften the ambience, while highlighting timber or stone features. At Papilio, we blend materials purposefully to accentuate design aspects. Hardware, whether in fittings or handles, is carefully selected. Scandinavian kitchen hardware is typically unobtrusive or architectural, reinforcing a less-is-more approach without sacrificing function.
Cabinetry and Storage in Scandinavian Kitchens
Cabinetry and storage are where Scandinavian kitchens really shine. Because the aim is to minimise visual clutter, cleverly engineered storage and cabinetry are vital. Our design team will work closely with you to ensure that what you want hidden and what you wish to see every day are considered.
Our Mid-Century-Inspired Kitchen in Somerset is a fine example of a large, bright space with two islands, a living zone and a dining area. We incorporated low cabinets along the perimeter wall in a golden American Black Walnut finish. As part of the design, our client asked us to reappropriate an existing antique teak cabinet with a unique, rich red hue. We transformed it into a second bespoke kitchen island. We used its glazed frontage, building a cabinet around the piece that matched the tone and glazing detail, ensuring that their collection of crockery was cleverly stored and subtly displayed.
Handleless and recessed detailing
Handleless, j-handles, or custom recessed handles offer a clean, fuss-free look, a fundamental feature of Scandinavian kitchens. While there is a variety of elegant hardware, we believe that less is often more. Handleless cabinet doors present a modern appearance and are easier to clean. Precise recesses and bespoke details reflect expert artisanry, as their complexity demands high-quality craftsmanship.
Kitchen Islands in Scandinavian Layouts
Handmade kitchen islands add both form and function to Scandi-style layouts. Freestanding and accessible from various sides, these islands can be tailored in shape and size. They provide practical work surfaces, additional storage, and can define open-plan spaces by incorporating sinks, cooktops, or built-in seating. Versatile and purposeful, they serve as standout pieces of handcrafted furniture in Scandinavian kitchens.
Neutral colour palettes
Neutral colour palettes for Scandinavian kitchens needn’t be dull. At Papilio, we strategically select hues that capture and reflect natural light, layering textures to add warmth. We also enjoy introducing splashes of colour for a sense of fun.
Our Scandinavian Kitchen in Bristol features stripped timbers and cheerful yellow cabinet panels for a fresh, modern look. Stainless steel work surfaces are functional and highlight the kitchen’s practicality. Oversized filament lamps on black cords add a bold feature, characteristic of Scandinavian kitchens.
Want to Know More?
We’d love to help create your ideal natural kitchen. Contact our team today to discuss your vision and book a personal consultation with our designers.
