Why does Scandinavian design make us feel good?
Minimalist spaces have a notable impact on our mental and emotional well-being. When clutter is removed, distractions are minimized and essentials are emphasized. Creativity is thriving. Focus and productivity are enhanced. Mental clarity is boosted. We are present and engaged and our serotonin levels ultimately rise.
Scandinavian design has captured hearts worldwide for its elegant simplicity and functionality. Its clean lines, neutral color palettes, and natural materials create spaces that are both modern and timeless. The minimalist aesthetic prioritizes both form and function, creating spaces that exude calm and order, and enhance the feeling of spaciousness and serenity. The use of natural materials such as wood and wool adds warmth and coziness, known as "hygge", while a neutral color palette focuses on light and openness, creating a serene and airy atmosphere.
Discover landscape hotels that embrace Scandinavian design with simplicity, functionality, and connection to nature. By thoughtfully incorporating nature-inspired elements and celebrating craftsmanship, these hotels create harmonious, tranquil living spaces that enhance overall well-being.
Cold Hawaii
Denmark
Cold Hawaii nestled within the serene and unspoiled landscapes of North Jutland, Denmark, is an unexpected paradise for surfers and nature enthusiasts. This coastal gem boasts some of the best surfing conditions in Europe, with consistent waves and a vibrant community of water sports aficionados. Situated in this idyllic setting, VIPP Cold Hawaii offers a unique lodging experience that perfectly complements the raw beauty of northern Europe. Guests can enjoy minimalist yet luxurious accommodations, designed to seamlessly blend with the surrounding natural environment. Whether you're riding the waves, exploring the rugged coastline, or simply unwinding in the comfort of a VIPP-designed room, Cold Hawaii promises an unforgettable escape into the heart of nature, coupled with the refined elegance of Danish design.
Photos by Vipp Cold Hawaii
Vipp Salaca River
Latvia
Vipp Salaca River is where Scandinavian minimalism meets the historic charm of a traditional Latvian log house. The guesthouse, originally a fisherman’s house from 1876, has been carefully relocated to the Salaca River Valley within one of Latvia’s most beautiful nature parks. Seventeen years ago, Arturs Martinsons, founder of the design studio xcelsior, purchased 17 hectares in the Salaca National Park to create a family retreat. The 110 m² log cabin, now with a modern layout, includes a master bedroom with a freestanding bathtub overlooking the living area, a ground-floor bedroom with two single beds, a bathroom, an entrance hall, and a combined living area and kitchen. Nestled among old-growth trees, this guesthouse seamlessly blends historical charm with contemporary design, offering a unique getaway in a stunning natural setting.
Photos by Vipp Salaca River
Highland Base
Iceland
Highland Base is a hidden gem in the heart of Iceland, offering a unique blend of adventure and tranquility amidst some of the country's most stunning landscapes. Nestled in the highlands of Kerlingarfjöll, this mountain resort serves as a gateway to the geothermal wonderland of Kerlingarfjöll, renowned for its steaming vents, hot springs, and vibrant rhyolite mountains. Visitors can embark on thrilling hikes through rugged terrain, soak in natural hot pools, and witness the otherworldly beauty of the geothermal activity. Highland Base Kerlingarfjöll provides cozy accommodations that blend rustic charm with modern comforts, making it the perfect retreat for those looking to immerse themselves in the raw, untouched beauty of Iceland's highlands.
Photos by Highland Base
Treehotel
Sweden
Treehotel combines great design, nature, sustainability and magic to create one of the most unique retreats in the world. Located in Northern Sweden, in the village of Harads, your long journey to get here will be worth it.
Choose one of the 6 unique treehouses with the view of Lule River valley, surrounded by centuries-old pines and suspended 4-6 metres above the ground. Each treeroom has been created by some of Scandinavia’s best architects and everything from the rooms to the furniture has been custom designed. The Cabin Treeroom has amazing views of the Lule River valley and a large wooden deck. The Mirrorcube Treeroom perfectly blends into its surroundings and its six windows provide a panoramic view of the forest. The Bird's Nest's unique design speaks for itself. The Blue Cone Treehouse is accessible through a bridge from the nearby mountain and has 4 beds. Choose The UFO Treehouse for a truly out-of-this-world experience, built for 5 people. The Dragonfly Treehouse is the largest and perfect for accommodating a large group. End your day at the Tree Sauna for a true Swedish experience.
The newest addition to Treehotel’s unique rooms is the Biosphere. Created from more than 300 birdhouses of different sizes, it highlights the hotel’s focus on sustainable tourism as well as helps conserve the local bird population in real-time.
Photos by Treehotel, Peter Lundstrom
The Arctic Hideaway
Norway
Fordypningsrommet Fleinvær (The Arctic Hideaway) is a remote retreat created by musician Håvard Lund. Located on the island of Sørvær in the Fleinvær archipelago outside of Bodø, Norway, the getaway is especially catered towards creatives looking for inspiration. Enjoy views of the Arctic Sea, mysterious islands and icy mountain peaks in the distance, all framed by large windows and cozy interiors. The Hideaway consists of a collection of 10 tiny houses, each created for sleeping, eating, and bathing. Enjoy a complete and total escape from everyday life, raw nature, and surreal landscapes. Creatives can apply to be the artist in residence and receive a complimentary stay.
Photo by Pierre Wikberg
The Nami Project
Canada
The Nami Project is an adults-only oceanfront landscape hotel situated in the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve in Ucluelet, British Columbia, Canada. Offering unparalleled access to nature, the property is just steps from the Pacific Rim Trail. The Tofino-Ucluelet area is a compelling destination known for its stunning natural landscapes, unique wildlife encounters, and rich cultural experiences set against Vancouver Island's rugged coastline.
Created as a haven for slow and silent living, The Nami Project encourages guests to embrace the rhythm of the changing seasons and the tranquility of nature. The meticulously designed cabins and suites, each featuring a personal cedar sauna, offer breathtaking ocean and forest views. This environment invites guests to slow down, practice gratitude, and relax, fully immersing themselves in the natural beauty surrounding them.
Embracing Japandi design, The Nami Project blends Japanese simplicity and harmony with Scandinavian minimalism and warmth. Large sliding glass windows and extended ceilings provide unobstructed views of the coastline, enhancing the connection with nature. Each cabin and suite includes a custom-made cedar sauna and a private sunken cedar hot tub (in cabins only). Guests also have access to a common area with additional hot tubs, a cold plunge tub, lounge chairs, and a gas fireplace.
Photo by The Nami Project
Wander
Canada
Wander is a first-of-its-kind luxury cabin resort in the heart of Prince Edward County, Ontario, Canada. The modern retreat consists of 10 Lakeside and Poolside Cabins, the Wander Haus (perfect for a large family or group of friends), and the soon-to-launch treehouse-style Treeside Cabins. The contemporary spaces are complete with Nordic design, European-style kitchens, indoor and outdoor fireplaces, heated floors, private outdoor showers, and organic linens. Come for the long private beachfront. Stay for the warm hospitality and luxury in every detail.
Photos property of Wander the Resort; Patrick Biller and Denis Lipman
Room + Wild is the leading content platform for landscape-enhanced architecture, ecotourism, nature-based destinations, and transformative travel experiences. We work with extraordinary retreats all over the world to inspire, influence, and spread awareness of landscape architecture, environmental initiatives, and earth mindfulness.