Style
Northern Lights
The marriage of royal opulence with Scandinavian simplicity forms a distinctive look that stands the test of time

It is no wonder that Scandinavians--inhabitants of the perennially sunlight-deprived European countries of Sweden, Denmark, Norway, Iceland and Finland--have historically embraced a light, bright and uncluttered look. This whitewashed aesthetic was originally introduced to these northern countries more than 200 years ago by Sweden's King Gustav III (1771-1792), who spent a great deal of time at the French royal court in Versailles.

He is credited with bringing a unique interpretation of the Louis XVI style home to Sweden and her neighboring countries. (The reflective pearly paint coveted by collectors of Scandinavian antiques is aptly named "Gustavian Gray" in his honor.) Cloaked in pale, grayish blue, green and white paint, the Neoclassic-inspired furniture in this palette suited the northern hemisphere's desire for cheerful interiors to brighten their long winter days.

Today, antique Gustavian and its country counterpart (less formal painted or stripped-and-waxed pine "folk" pieces) speak to the Colorado aesthetic and have been popular for decades in this region.


$1,583
Emma Bedside Table, Country Swedish
Carter Didlake, Denver Design District
(303) 794-4722		$2,125
Anika City Chair, The Haga Collection
Carter Didlake, Denver Design District
(303) 794-4722
$2,150
Lovisa Side Chair, The Haga Collection, Carter Didlake, Denver Design District, (303) 794-4722.		$3,885
Corner Cabinet, circa 1860-1880, Sweden, Scandinavian Antiques, (303) 722-2541.
$9,700
Elenora Bookcase, The Haga Collection, Carter Didlake, Denver Design District (303) 794-4722.		$5,400
Mid-18th-century Swedish Mora Clock,
The Collection, (303) 623-4200,
antiquedesign.com
 
$3,650
Original Painted Bench, circa 1820, Sweden, Scandinavian Antiques, (303) 722-2541.