Yes. I think it is the light and the language. Modern European design exists in a work of long nights during winter, and gets more "European" the further nort

Yes. I think it is the light and the language. Modern European design exists in a work of long nights during winter, and gets more "European" the further north in Europe you go. So it is stark lines and bright solid colors that stand out from the background (think Ikea). The diversity of languages also encourages simplicity, with form communicating meaning. Compare Asia or North America where days are longer/brighter and languages less diverse, with designers going instead for intricacy and detail.