You may have already heard about Hygge, the latest lifestyle and interior design trend. But do you know what it is all about? And do you know how to embrace this Danish lifestyle at home? Not to worry, we are here to help.
But first, what does Hygge mean….Hygge (pronounced hue-guh not hoo-gah) is a Danish word used when acknowledging a feeling or moment, whether alone or with friends, at home or out, ordinary or extraordinary as cozy, charming or special. But what does that all mean? And what are the rules to implement?
Set the mood
When you ask Danes what they associate most with the concept of hygge, the vast majority will instantly say candles. There is just something about the glow of candle – it creates instant atmosphere. The casting warm light from candles transforms a space. Whether it’s during a night in alone, or while entertaining close friends, there’s nothing more enticing than a room lit by candlelight. Further, we would suggest scented candles. There is something about our favourite scents that trigger past memories; there’s a nostalgia to fragrance that transports you. So think back to your favourite smells – what memories to they remind you of? How can you recapture that in your own space? The obvious choice would be a beautifully scented candle that fills the space but you could opt for incense or diffusers as well. You will be amazed how much better you feel as you breathe in that scent.
Find natural elements
In our modern world, we are often surrounded by lots of technology and synthetic substances. The Danes believe in incorporating as much natural elements as possible to shift the energy in a space. The idea is to bring as much naturally greenery as possible through large scale (or small scale) house plants. These will not only brighten your space but clean your air (bonus). The same goes for wood and natural accents in your home. Wood floors, furniture, even home accessories— will all help us feel closer to nature. And that is a very important part of the hygge concept. So bring the outside in.
Create a reading nook
One element that every hygge home needs is a perfect place to curl up. You don’t need a lot of space – just a corner to create a nook where you could curl up with a blanket and relax. You just need enough space for a great chair – perhaps even a bookshelf to fill with your favourite books. Danes refer to this as their hyggekrog… their nook. It’s a space where you can decompress – a space where you can escape and feel relaxed, read a book and have a cup of tea. Or a great glass of wine. Be sure to layer pillows and throws to make your nook your very own.
Work with neutrals and textures
The overall color scheme you choose for your home will help create a hyggelig feeling in your space. Danes do prefer to keep the general palette warm and cozy yet neutral. So opt for warmer tones of whites, creams, buttery yellows, etc. It’s about considering how colors will feel in the home. Further, you want to incorporate texture to avoid your space feeling one dimensional and flat. The tactile sense is very important when it comes to a hyggelig interior. Consider a variety of textures, from chunky knits to washed linens and even some luxe velvet.
Include nostalgia and vintage elements
Hygge isn’t simply about beautiful elements to create a cozy and welcoming space. Danes believe that household objects should be more than just things. It is also about incorporating elements that tell a story. Or have a sense of history or meaning to you. Display that blanket your grandmother knit so many years ago or that great floral painting that used to hang in your childhood dining room. If that chair you inherited doesn’t fit into your current decor, feel free to recover it and make it your own. You will still have a piece of history in your space.
Simplify
Last but not least – simplfiy. Living like the Danes is all about simplifying. You should only surround yourself with the things that really make you happy. That bring you joy. Hygge is not about over the top extravagance, but about taking pleasure in the simplicity of your immediate surroundings. But it is not cold minimalism – more liked relaxed simplicity. Consider this a great time to purge and re-organize.
