Dutch Is The New Scandinavian

Scandinavian design has dominated the European market since the 1950s - think clean, simple, classical styles accessible to the broader public. Northern Europe suffers from a severe lack of sunlight - hence the need for interiors to be bright, spacious and open. Sense of minimalism? Check. Sustainable materials? Check. Cute woodland animal motifs? Check. Dutch interior design is fast becoming the hotter little sister of long-established Scandinavian charm.

The story of De Stijl

Also known as neoplasticism, De Stijl (founded 1917) was an artistic and architectural movement which reached provenance in the 1920s. Perhaps the Netherlands’ most famous design tradition, its practitioners were strongly influenced by functionalism, cubism and geometric theory, seeking to create an almost yin-and-yang-like harmony between black, white and the primary colours. Crisp, clean, perpendicular lines and a focus on plastic were other notable characteristics.

Dutch design today

Bringing back the monochrome with impeccable style are designers such as Rotterdam-based Natasja Molenaar. After working for high-profile Piet Boon, Molenaar founded her own company NM in 2010 and has enjoyed considerable success with her cool, crisp, no-frills approach. She believes that the spirit of the home lies in the sharp juxtaposition of sleek, clean, practical physical features and warm, homely, personality-full possessions. Her designs are elegant and effective and tend to only the slightest hint of colour. The lesson is clear - when it comes to maintaining a beautiful home, white is the new black.

Remy Meijers is another big name in the Dutch design world and another designer maintaining the monochrome tradition. Meijers graduated in Interior and Furniture Design from the Utrecht School of the Arts in 1995 and has since developed a strong portfolio in both domestic and office spaces through his knack for crafting minimalist-looking rooms with timeless appeal. Again, bold, black, white. He works with a range of materials, including natural stone and timber and aims to maximise light.