Just 10 Scandinavian Brands You Absolutely Need To Know

Welcome to Scandi-land, our celebration of the magic that is Scandinavian design. All week, we'll be bringing you tours, features, and shopping guides that dive deep into what makes Nordic design so covetable. Want more to read? Check here.

If you're anything like us, you just can't get enough of Scandinavian design. We're knee-deep in Scandi-land and still craving more. The simplicity, the tradition, the functionality ... what's not to love? And while we love an affordable piece of decor from IKEA as much as the next person, it's nice to have options so you can mix your high and low buys. So, in an attempt to guide your retail therapy efforts, let us introduce you to 10 of our fave Scandi-chic brands.

1. HAY

HAY

It's no secret that we are slightly smitten with the Danish design brand HAY. Inspired by architecture and fashion, their line of contemporary homewares feature minimalist silhouettes and sophisticated color palettes. And luckily for us, HAY has shown no signs of slowing down — they've recently collaborated with brands ranging from Sonos to IKEA.

2. Hem

Stephen Paul for Hunker

ICYMI, the Hunker team has recently realized one of our dreams: the Hunker House. This space is a real-life representation of our brand, filled with products from some of our favorite furniture designers and makers, including Stockholm-based Hem. We managed to carve out space for their Scandi-chic Log Table (starting at $879.20) and Pal Stools ($119.20 each) which fit in so nicely, don't ya think?

3. AYTM

AYTM

Nordic design is known for its natural materials and bold color choices, and while AYTM has worked to continue that tradition throughout their unique product line, they've also tried to reimagine it. And thanks to the team's different backgrounds and experiences influencing the design process, they've been able to do just that, time and time again, with collections that are bursting with quality and originality.

4. Menu

Menu

What's not to like about a brand whose ethos is all about discovering clever solutions for objects that we use every day, while maintaining the crisp Scandinavian look that we all know and love? Enter the Copenhagen-based brand, Menu. From furniture to lighting to accessories, each piece exudes an undeniable warmth and sophistication.

5. Muuto

Muuto

Muuto, the Finnish word for "new perspective," is all about looking at Scandinavian design in a fresh and novel way. And that effort is surely made easier when your lineup of craftsman, makers, and designers are as talented as theirs. Showcasing sleek lines and elegant palettes, Muuto's collection of wares always find their way onto our wish list.

6. by Lassen

by Lassen

Renowned Danish architect Mogen Lassen once said: "Good craftsmanship must be valued." This philosophy has served the brand well since 2008 when it was founded by the third and fourth generations of the Lassen family. With just one look at the products, you can see how Lassen's affinity for Bauhaus and its geometric shapes has continued to be a major influence.

7. Ferm Living

Ferm Living

Don't let Ferm Living's small size fool you. This Copenhagen-based brand has made quite the name for itself, and it's easy to see why. From soft forms and rich color palettes to striking patterns and unexpected details, their wares are a study in beautiful contrasts.

8. Skagerak

Skagerak

Another family-owned brand deeply rooted in Scandinavian design is Skagerak, which is named after the Skagerrak (with two r's) — a strait that connects Denmark with Sweden and Norway. Each stunning piece is crafted with care and designed to last for years to come.

9. &Tradition

&Tradition

Like the name says, &Tradition has mastered the art of blending tradition with innovation in their collection of furniture and lighting. They pride themselves on producing designs from icons of the past, such as Arne Jacobsen and Verner Panton, as well as working with up-and-coming designers who are on track to become icons of tomorrow.

10. Iris Hantverk

Instagram @irishantverk

Founded in 1870, Iris Hantverk is steeped in Swedish tradition and technique. From makeup brushes to dish brushes to toilet brushes, this brand has mastered the art of brush-making. But beautiful wares are only half of the story: Using natural materials, each brush is handmade by visually impaired craftsmen from different cultures.