How to Decorate In Scandinavian Style With Kilim And Oushak Rugs

If you’re anything like me, you love a home that feels both calm and character-rich—and that’s why I absolutely adore neutral Swedish interiors. The clean lines, calming colors, and cozy textures… and of course, the Scandinavian style rugs.

Yes, I start with the rug. Always. Because a rug grounds a space, sets the tone and adds that whisper of warmth every Nordic-inspired room needs. Scandinavian-style rugs are perfect for minimal, modern homes with soul.

Their beauty in their versatility. The neutral tones and timeless designs transition easily across seasons and styles, making them a long-term investment in both function and aesthetics.

Let me show you how to layer these handmade, plush Kilim beauties into your hygge-inspired home with ease.

Kilim & Oushak rugs: both are for Scandinavian style

If there’s one thing I love about Scandinavian design, it’s how it manages to create airy, functional spaces that still feel warm and personal. Clean doesn’t have to mean cold. And that’s where rugs shine.

1. Kilim rugs? Oh, they’re the stars of Nordic-style interiors. They bring texture and rhythm. Lightweight, geometric, and unfussy—they get just the right amount of grounding to open spaces.
2. But Oushak rugs are great for Scandinavian-style interiors too. They offer subtle patterns and muted colors that complement pale woods and white walls.

And the best part? Both are handwoven, making them a natural match for the Scandinavian love of sustainable design and thoughtful living.

Choosing the right Scandinavian-style rug

Now, let’s talk about choosing the right rug. That one piece that makes the whole room come together. In Scandinavian interiors, it’s all about light, breathable textures, and tones that feel like nature’s palette.

Here’s what I look for:

• Ivory, beige, soft gray, or pale blue tones
• Minimal floral or geometric patterns (especially in Oushak rugs)
• Flatweave Kilims in neutral tones of brown
• Low-pile or soft plush textures that add coziness to large open spaces

Not sure what size or color works best? Choose a custom rug so you never have to compromise on fit or tone.

Where to put Scandinavian-style rugs in your home

1. Living Room: Opt for a generously sized 9×12 or 8×10 rug in soft, neutral tones of cream or beige to anchor your living space. Let the kilim rug set the tone for a neutral, grounded space. The muted palette and texture complement any Scandinavian-inspired decor without overpowering the room. Place all furniture pieces – sofa, chairs, and coffee table—on the rug to create a sense of unity.
2. Dining Room: An abstract flatweave Kilim adds texture without bulk and makes chairs easy to slide. Choose simple patterns that mirror Scandinavian minimalism. Use a 9×12 or 8×10 rug for a dining table seating 6 to 8.
3. Bedroom: Layer a muted Kilim rug under the bed for softness and visual warmth. Pair it with linen bedding and light oak furniture. For the children’s room, lay an ivory Scandinavian-style runner between twin beds for a symmetrical, cozy look.
4. Entryway or Kitchen: Opt for custom Kilim runners to add a functional yet beautiful touch. These work especially well in white or pastel-toned kitchens.
5. In Open-Plan Spaces: Scandinavian rugs are ideal for creating defined zones without disrupting the visual flow. Use a flatwoven Kilim under the dining table and a plusher antique washed Oushak rug in the living area—sticking to the same tonal family ensures the space stays cohesive. These subtle rugs help carve out purposeful areas while maintaining an airy, open feel.

Cool-toned and neutral Oushak rugs add a subtle pattern to the Nordic style.

Scandinavian style is built on a foundation of simplicity, light, and softness.

But too much minimalism can feel flat or cold. That’s where cool-toned and neutral Oushak rugs make a difference.

These rugs often feature soft ivory, powder blue, sage green, and faded terracotta, paired with traditional motifs that are barely there. But just enough to draw the eye.

They complement pale woods, white walls, and linen textures while quietly warming up the room. Think of them as visual whispers: subtle but grounding, decorative but never distracting.

Whether underfoot in a living room or layered into a bedroom, a neutral-toned Oushak rug helps keep the serenity of Nordic style intact

Warm up modern spaces with handmade rugs

Scandinavian style is more than white walls and modern furniture. It’s about how each piece in the room makes you feel. A handwoven Scandinavian-style rug—whether it’s a geometric Kilim or a faded floral Oushak—adds depth, comfort, and craftsmanship to clean, modern interiors.

Browse our Etsy shop for the perfect Scandinavian-style Kilim or Oushak rug, or send us a message to start a custom order.

Ashni,

XOXO