The Danish concept of hygge is a little hard to translate into a corresponding English word. It’s more of a feeling that conjures cosiness, enjoying the simple things and, basically, letting yourself sink into happiness among family and friends. With a few easy design tips, you can hygge your home for an instant, ‘feel-good’ boost.
Hygge is all about cosy times enjoying family and friends, in a serene environment.
Embrace cosy minimalism
If you need an excuse to spring clean - even when it’s not spring - creating a hygge environment is as good as it gets. Nordic homes are functional and minimalist, yet they manage to evoke warmth at the same time. Before you get to the fun decorating part, get rid of the clutter. Invest in clever storage solutions to hide mess and create a clean space to give your eyes a break from stimulation.
The hygge colour palette depicts nature, tranquility and simplicity.
Choose a soothing colour scheme
The hygge colour palette depicts nature, tranquility and simplicity. Even if you decorate just one room, opt for no more than two or three primary shades. Think neutral grey, warm beige, chocolate brown, deep blue and soft pastels. Use colour as a ‘pop’, rather than a focus. For example, use soft, coloured textures like throws, rugs or cushions on a neutral, off-white backdrop.
Natural accents, soothing colours and ambient light create hygge in your home.
Create ambient lighting
Ambient lighting is the be all and end all when it comes to evoking a cosy mood. The Danes swear by candlelight, but you can also use diffused light from floor lamps and dimmer settings on overhead lights. During the day, natural light is best, so ensure your space takes advantage of it with appropriate window hangings.
Display personal mementos
Hygge is all about spending time with loved ones (in your new, inviting home). Another way to personalise a hygge space is to display your favourite things, but in a minimalist style. Create vignettes to highlight photos, books or ornaments, so that they’re clustered neatly in one or two spots, thereby avoiding clutter.
Bring the outdoors in
Lastly, you can’t invest in hygge without a touch of the outdoors. This is especially crucial in winter, to retain the inspiration and fresh appeal of nature at all times. Along with the obvious items like fresh flowers and plants, choose natural materials, like wood, for decor and furniture.
Then, all you need to do is settle in with a steaming cup of hot chocolate and a friend, to enjoy your hygge atmosphere to your heart’s content.