In a world that’s moving faster than ever, having a dedicated space to work, read, and reflect is more important than ever. And what better way to combine focus and serenity than by setting up a Scandi home office with library bookshelves?
Whether you’re running your own biz, working from home part-time, or just need a peaceful place to plan, a Scandi-style space brings that perfect balance of functionality, minimalism, and hygge (that cosy Danish concept we all secretly want to live in). Add in a curated personal library, and you’ve got a dream setup for both productivity and peace.
Let’s dive into how you can transform any spare room or corner of your home into the ultimate Scandi-inspired work-and-read haven.
SEE ALSO Every item you need to setup a Scandi home office from scratch →
Why Choose Scandinavian Style?
Before we get stuck into the details, let’s talk about why this aesthetic is so perfect for a home office/library combo.
Scandinavian design is known for:
- Clean lines and minimal clutter
- A calming neutral colour palette
- Functional furniture with a timeless look
- Natural materials (hello timber and linen!)
- Thoughtful lighting
- An emphasis on cosiness and comfort – without the clutter
It’s a style that helps you breathe, focus, and feel grounded – ideal for both powering through work and curling up with a good book.
Step 1: Choose the Right Room or Space
First things first: location matters. Ideally, your office/library should be in a quiet area of the home with plenty of natural light. If you’re working with a smaller home or apartment, don’t stress – even a corner of a bedroom or a nook under the stairs can work wonders with the right layout and design.
Look for:
- A spot with a window (natural light = Scandi essential)
- Somewhere away from household noise
- Enough room for a desk and at least one bookshelf
Step 2: Pick Your Colour Palette
Scandi interiors are all about the neutrals. Think whites, soft greys, pale wood tones, and warm beiges. The key here is light and airy – the kind of space that instantly makes your shoulders drop and your mind feel clear.
Popular Scandi colour combos:
- White + light oak + sage green accents
- Soft grey walls + black metal details + blush tones
- Creamy beige + charcoal + muted olive
Don’t be afraid to add a pop of colour or a personal touch – but keep it subtle and intentional. A deep navy armchair or a burnt orange cushion can add personality without overwhelming the calm.
Step 3: Invest in Functional, Beautiful Furniture
Let’s talk furniture – the backbone of your space. Scandinavian design favours quality over quantity, so choose pieces that are both functional and beautiful.
Desk
Your desk should be sturdy, simple, and stylish. Go for light or medium wood tones, or white with timber legs. Avoid bulky designs – a slim profile with a few drawers is perfect.
Chair
This one’s crucial. Your chair needs to be comfy enough for hours of work and cute enough to suit your aesthetic. A classic Scandi desk chair often has a sleek, minimalist design with a soft upholstered seat. If you’ve got space, add a second chair (like a stylish armchair or reading nook chair) for library lounging.
Shelving
Open shelving works beautifully in a Scandi library. Think floating shelves, ladder-style bookcases, or minimalist wall-mounted units in natural wood or white. Keep things uncluttered – let your books shine with a bit of breathing room.
Multi-use furniture
Look for smart storage options – like a bench seat with cubbies, or a sideboard that doubles as a printer station. Scandi design loves dual-purpose pieces.
Step 4: Embrace Natural Materials
One of the hallmarks of Scandinavian interiors is a love for nature – even indoors. Bring in raw, organic textures to balance out the clean lines and cool tones.
Include:
- Timber (especially light oak, ash, or birch)
- Woven baskets
- Linen curtains or cushions
- Wool or jute rugs
- Leather or felt accessories
This is where the space really starts to feel grounded and warm.
Step 5: Layer In Lighting
Good lighting is EVERYTHING in a Scandi-style room – especially in a hybrid space where you’ll be switching from reading to working and maybe even relaxing with a glass of red at the end of the day.
Your lighting plan should include:
- Natural light – maximise it! Use sheer curtains or blinds that let light filter in.
- Task lighting – a beautiful desk lamp that provides focused light while working.
- Ambient lighting – think warm LED bulbs in a ceiling light or pendant.
- Accent lighting – wall sconces, fairy lights, or even a cosy floor lamp in your reading corner.
Warm light is your best friend. It creates that inviting, homely feel that Scandi interiors are famous for.
Step 6: Style with Intention
Once the furniture and basics are in, it’s time to Scandi-fy your space with curated décor and storage.
Declutter first
One of the biggest traps is overloading your space with too much stuff. Scandinavian design is all about intentionality – every piece should have a purpose or spark joy.
Add personality through:
- A few framed prints or minimalist art
- A pinboard or wire grid above your desk
- A plant or two (pothos, fiddle leaf, or snake plant = low-fuss, high-impact)
- A beautiful wall calendar or planner (you know I’ve got plenty in my shop… wink!)
- A neutral-toned throw blanket for your reading chair
- A stylish clock or analogue timer for focus sprints
Keep your books organised
Don’t just shove them on shelves willy-nilly. Stack a few horizontally, sort by colour or size, or mix in small art pieces or objects for balance. Less is more!
Step 7: Create Distinct Zones
Your hybrid room needs to work hard – it’s both an office and a retreat. Use layout and styling to clearly define each “zone” while keeping a cohesive look.
Try this:
- Position your desk near the window for max daylight
- Use a rug to anchor the reading/library area
- Separate areas with furniture (e.g. a low bookcase between zones)
- Angle your reading chair slightly away from your desk – visually creating separation
When it feels like a room with purpose, you’ll naturally switch gears between work and relaxation.
Step 8: Add Tech (Without Killing the Vibe)
Yes, you’ll probably need your laptop, printer, modem and more – but the goal is to blend tech in, not let it dominate.
Smart Scandi tech tips:
- Use a wireless keyboard and mouse in neutral tones
- Hide cords using cable boxes or clips
- Store your printer in a cabinet or on a rolling cart
- Keep chargers in woven baskets or fabric organisers
Minimalist doesn’t mean no tech – just hidden, streamlined tech that doesn’t scream “office chaos!”
Step 9: Keep It Organised
If you’re anything like me, your desk can go from pristine to post-apocalyptic in about 3 minutes flat. Scandi style is all about systems – having a place for everything so you can focus, not fumble.
Storage ideas:
- Stackable trays for papers and notebooks
- A drawer organiser for your stationery stash
- Woven baskets for cables, cords, or printer paper
- A pegboard for wall storage (and some cute visual flair)
Don’t forget a gorgeous weekly or monthly planner to help you stay on top of things – especially if you love planning on paper.
Step 10: Make It Yours
Last but not least, remember this: Scandinavian design doesn’t mean sterile. You’re not building a furniture showroom – you’re creating a space where you’ll spend hours working, thinking, and dreaming.
Add those final personal touches:
- A candle in your favourite scent (we love something woody or citrusy)
- A playlist that keeps you focused or chilled out
- A cup of tea, coffee or sparkling water on your coaster of choice
- Family photos, vision boards, or inspiration quotes – displayed with care
This is your space. Make it a joy to be in, every single day.
Bonus Tip: Use Your Wall Space Wisely
If you’re tight on square footage, go vertical! Scandi style LOVES clever wall storage.
- Mount floating shelves for books or files
- Use a magnetic board or cork board for planning
- Add hooks for headphones, bags, or jackets
- Hang a calendar that doubles as decor (like one of our printable wall calendars – just sayin’!)
It keeps the floor clear and adds visual interest to your walls.
Final Thoughts
Setting up a Scandinavian-style home office and library hybrid room isn’t about perfection – it’s about creating a calm, intentional space that supports both your productivity and your peace of mind.
Whether you’re journaling with your morning cuppa, smashing out emails, or getting lost in a book on a rainy arvo, this room will become your go-to sanctuary. With a little planning, the right palette, and thoughtful touches, your hybrid space can be both minimalist and magical.
Ready to give your room the Scandi makeover it deserves? Save this post, pin it for inspo, and get started – one hygge step at a time.
Looking for stylish printable planners or calendars to complete your setup? Browse our range of minimalist, Scandinavian-inspired designs on Etsy – perfect for pinboards, walls, and desks. Designed with love in Melbourne!