In this blog, you’ll learn:
- How to incorporate reindeer hides into your home décor, from living rooms to entryways.
- Design inspiration from Nordic and Scandinavian interiors to create natural, textured spaces.
- Practical tips for using reindeer skins to add warmth and comfort to any room.
At J. Wood Leathers, we understand how the right materials can elevate a space – and very few do this as effortlessly as reindeer skins. With their rich textures, natural tones, and organic shapes, these hides are a favourite among interior designers looking to add warmth, contrast, and a sense of authenticity to their work. Whether styled across a chair, layered on the floor, or used as a wall feature, reindeer skins bring a tactile, earthy sophistication that blends beautifully into both rustic and contemporary design schemes. And while they make a bold visual statement, they also offer the durability and comfort that make them just as practical as they are beautiful.
Inspired by Scandinavian living
Scandinavian interiors are known for their simplicity, functionality, and connection to nature – a design philosophy that values quality over quantity and materials that feel honest and tactile.
Reindeer skins are a natural fit within this aesthetic. Traditionally used in Nordic homes for warmth and comfort, they now play a decorative role in contemporary Scandinavian-inspired spaces, where soft textures and neutral palettes take centre stage.
Think pale woods, clean lines, muted tones, and an emphasis on light – with reindeer hides used as layered accents to soften the look and add visual interest.
Styling ideas: how to use reindeer skins in the home
Whether you’re refreshing a single room or creating a whole-home aesthetic, here are some timeless ways to use reindeer hides as part of your interior styling:
Practical everyday uses
While reindeer skins are often chosen for their visual appeal, their functionality should never be overlooked. In colder climates, they’ve long been used as natural insulators – a tradition that continues today in modern homes, cabins, and outdoor spaces. Try using them on cold stone floors, over benches in porch areas, or layered on seating in garden rooms and winter lodges. Their warmth makes them perfect for spaces that need a soft, tactile surface with a bit of extra comfort – especially in transitional or seasonal rooms that shift from indoors to out.
Living rooms
- Drape over a mid-century armchair or modern sofa to add softness and contrast.
- Lay over the back of a wooden bench for an instant Nordic cabin feel.
- Use as a small area rug layered over larger woven rugs for texture.
Bedrooms
- Style at the foot of the bed to create a relaxed, layered look.
- Place beside the bed as a natural bedside rug – soft on the feet and visually striking!
- Use over a blanket box or bench to bring interest to otherwise overlooked furniture.
Dining & kitchen areas
- Drape over dining chairs for a welcoming, rustic touch – perfect in winter months.
- Style over a built-in bench or window seat to add comfort and warmth to your kitchen-diner.
- Use in styled tablescapes as a show-stopping centrepiece or natural runner.
Entryways & hallways
- Position near the front door to welcome guests with a natural, tactile detail.
- Layer on a hallway bench or low console for subtle Nordic flair.
- Mount a smaller hide as wall art to bring visual warmth into transitional spaces.
Design tips from Nordic interiors
- Keep the palette soft: Use whites, greys, beiges, and browns to complement the hide’s natural tones.
- Let materials speak: Combine the hide with oak, linen, wool, and ceramics for a layered, calming effect.
- Less is more: Use the hide as a focal point – its organic texture is enough to elevate the whole room!
Style that tells a story
Each reindeer hide in our collection is entirely unique – a natural piece with a real story and presence. Whether you’re styling a minimalist interior, creating a cosy retreat, or simply adding a touch of Nordic charm, these hides bring texture, warmth, and individuality to any room.