Experts reveal the one material that will make your kitchen feel instantly more Scandinavian

The ambiance of Scandinavian design is one that interior lovers worldwide often attempt to replicate. However, the secret to its unrivaled allure may be more simple than we ever thought. 

When planning your Scandi-modern kitchen ideas, follow the advice from the figures at the top of the industry who are in agreement that cork is the simplest, most effective way of injecting this painfully cool aesthetic into the heart of interiors. 

Plus, this minimalistic material pays homage to several of the season's biggest trends – including the Japandi craze and the desire to bring the organic beauty of biophilia into our homes. 

(Image credit: Future / Paul Massey)

Here, designers explain what makes this material so very Scandi and how you can embrace this look at a time when it has never looked quite so current. 

Why cork is a Scandi-staple in modern kitchens  

If anybody knows about the fundamentals of Nordid design, it is Bo Hellberg, Chief Marketing Officer at the Swedish home decor label, string furniture. Bo notes that cork is becoming increasingly stylish this year, as it exhibits the best of biophilia through its organic materials. 

'It is obviously inherently sustainable and brings warmth and texture to any surface or space, but it's also ideal for insulating, which makes it great for kitchens,' he adds. 

(Image credit: string furniture)

How to bring cork into our kitchens – the stylish way 

Sure, we have corks filling our wine rack, but as Bo explains, there are even more ways to bring this material into our space. He suggests using cork underlay alongside your shelves, using the example of strings metal shelving system to combine a 'Scandi kitchen interior with a softer, organic material.' 

'And the cork underlays look great with any pots and pans,' Bo adds. 

Bo is not alone in his adoration for cork, as Emmie Brookman, Interiors Expert from Silver Mushroom, also praises its subtle aura whilst emphasizing its cool qualities.  

(Image credit: string furniture)

'Scandinavian style homes are certainly becoming more popular in interiors, perhaps in contrast to the ever-growing technology we use in our homes. If you're looking to add soft, suitable hints of this into your design, then cork can be a great way to do this. We would also warn you not to go overboard as you may begin to feel like you're living inside a cardboard box,' she explains.

To make cork work in your kitchen, Emmie suggests investing in cork' coasters, placemats, jars, lids, and bowls.'

'Using just a few of these items will add a simple, rustic feel to the kitchen that complements the often metallic, hard electricals and surfaces,' she adds.

(Image credit: string furniture)

The secret to a chic kitchen is beautifully simple, and we think it's time to toast this discovery with a few champagnes for the cork, naturally.