Lagom for Design Professionals: How To Master The Art Of ‘Just Enough’

In our journey to explore the world’s most inspiring philosophies for interior design, we previously delved into the cosy, comforting charm of Hygge (if you haven’t read the article yet, you should!), the Danish art of creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Today, we shift our focus to Sweden and its equally compelling concept of Lagom, a guiding principle for achieving balance, simplicity and harmony.

Curious to learn more about this concept and how to achieve it?

What is Lagom?

The Swedish word Lagom roughly translates to “not too much, not too little—just right.” It’s a philosophy rooted in moderation that advocates for balance in all aspects of life.

When applied to interior design, Lagom encourages creating functional yet stylish spaces, minimal yet warm and practical yet beautiful. Moreover, for interior designers, it’s a way to craft spaces that feel effortless and harmonious while maintaining a deep sense of purpose!

Why Should You Embrace Lagom In A Project?

• Functionality First

Lagom places emphasis on purposeful design. Each piece in a space should serve a function, eliminating unnecessary clutter while enhancing usability. This approach is ideal for creating interiors that work seamlessly for modern living, whether in a home, office or hospitality setting.

• Aesthetic Balance

Lagom doesn’t call for absolute minimalism or over-the-top opulence. Instead, it advocates a balanced aesthetic where colours, textures and materials work in harmony. Think soft neutrals, natural wood and thoughtfully chosen accents that bring cohesion to the space.

•  Sustainability

At its core, Lagom aligns with sustainable practices. It promotes quality over quantity, encouraging the selection of timeless, durable furniture and materials. As designers, incorporating this ethos aligns with global sustainability goals and adds long-term value for clients.

How to Infuse Lagom into Your Projects

• Start with Decluttering

Encourage your clients to embrace simplicity by paring down possessions to essentials that they truly love or use. A clean, uncluttered foundation allows design elements to shine.

• Opt for Timeless Pieces

Select furniture and decor that exude timeless appeal. Upholstered pieces like our Matthew Sofa or Edward Sofa—known for their sleek designs and multifunctionality—fit perfectly into a Lagom-inspired interior.

• Focus on Natural Materials

Wood, stone, linen and wool are staples of Lagom interiors. These materials bring warmth and texture to spaces while keeping the design grounded in nature.

• Choose a Balanced Palette

Stick to a neutral or muted colour scheme with occasional pops of soft, complementary hues. This approach creates a calming atmosphere and adds visual interest without overwhelming the space.

• Think Multifunctional

Incorporate pieces that serve multiple purposes, like our Beaumont sofa bed for a compact living room or the Avery pouf that doubles as storage. This aligns with Lagom’s focus on practicality and efficient use of space.

At Domkapa, we celebrate design philosophies like Lagom that inspire thoughtful, purposeful interiors. With our versatile and elegant collections, you can bring this Scandinavian balance into your next project!

Have you worked with Lagom-inspired concepts in your designs? We’d love to hear your experiences! And, if you missed our previous article on Hygge, be sure to check it out here to discover how these two philosophies can complement each other in your work.