Scarlett Johansson wanted her Scandi-style office to be an extension of her brand – her designer used this furniture technique to bring the vision alive

Scandinavian design is synonymous with clean simplicity and minimalism – much like Scarlett Johansson's brand The Outset. Naturally, therefore, when it came to designing the beauty brand's office, this aesthetic was at the top of her agenda.

Alongside her co-founder Kate Foster, Johansson curated a space that feels both warm and nurturing yet uber-sleek, drawing from Nordic design influences that pay homage to the actress's Danish heritage. Striking this balance is no easy feat, but it's possible with perfectly balanced paint colors and furnishings, which is where Room & Board came into play.

The modern furniture retailer paired up with Johansson to create a space that enjoys the beauty of Scandinavian design while still encouraging productivity – and as minimalist lovers, it's hard to want more from our workspace. Dianna Bauer, the director of partnership marketing at Room & Board, sat down with H&G to explain how they found the balance.

'Scandinavian design is all about simplicity and minimalism and that aligns so perfectly with the ethos The Outset is known for – simple, clean skincare,' Bauer says.

'The use of white along with natural and soothing materials and ingredients in both The Outset’s branding and Scandinavian design evokes a clean feeling that echoes the brand’s approach to skincare. The Scandinavian influence also allowed Scarlett to give a design nod to her Danish heritage.'

As Bauer notes, there are two sides to Scandinavian design: one being this idea of clean shapes and minimalist hues, the other being the concept of comfort and coziness. Johansson used the latter to create an inviting, welcoming and nurturing space.

'This was accomplished through earthy tones and natural textures with Room & Board furnishings that fit in perfectly with the refined and relaxed New York office.'

'Kate and Scarlett had a clear design vision for the space, so we really followed their lead on product selections. They envisioned an office space that embodied the values of the female-founded company,' Bauer says.

'It was important that it had an inviting and collaborative atmosphere. Room & Board’s warm, modern furniture was a seamless match for their vision and integrated so wonderfully with the paint colors and wallpaper they selected to create a cohesive experience, striking the perfect balance of simplicity and warmth.'

The secret to this balance is found, as Bauer reminds us, in the furniture, so whether we're working with a home office or living room, it's vital to get right.

'At Room & Board we believe in furniture and accessories that are modern, artisan crafted and designed to last,' she explains.

'Our focus is on timeless design – incorporating modern lines with timeless details that avoid the pit-fall of “trendy”. This is one of the elements of design that is near and dear to our collective hearts: furniture that is built to last that is loved for years is naturally sustainable and keeps furniture out of landfills. These concepts marry perfectly with the history embedded in this gorgeous old building and the fact that it is still part of the vibrant fabric of NYC.'

As mentioned, the office looks good, but it's just important that it promotes productivity. It is a work space, after all. Unsurprisingly, this is what Bauer hopes Johansson and Foster take from the project.

'Our hope is that they find comfort and inspiration and that it nurtures creativity and productiveness while providing the functionality they need on a day-to-day basis. Make it functional and beautiful! We also hope it feels warm and inviting for visitors to The Outset offices since that’s an extension of the brand,' Bauer says.

'Taking the time to make thoughtful design choices and incorporating elements that are uniquely meaningful opens the door to creating a personal and beautiful space.'