All the way back in 2016, the world was getting used to a bunch of neologisms such as “Brexiteer” and “fake news.” In amongst all the noise was the growth of a new design movement coming out of Denmark called hygge. The word hadn’t been circulating in the English language much before that, but bloggers suddenly took an interest in it, realising that it was probably the future.
Hygge roughly translates as “the quality of cosiness in a home.” But it’s more than just a roaring fireplace and thick blankets all over your sofas. It’s actually a little like the eastern philosophy of feng shui – it’s all about making you feel happy and content inside.
The fact that the concept of hygge originated in Scandinavian society is actually a little odd. Many of the concepts that it employs seem like they were plucked right out of yogic culture in India. But it turns out that they are quite independent of one another.
Hygge is primarily about interior design, but not exclusively. We’ve also seen the concept applied to food and drink as well. For instance, what could make you feel cosier inside than a cardamom latte? Probably not much. In fact, Danish doctors will often prescribe patients a combination of “tea” and hygge to get their bodies back to normal after a shock.
Hygge In The Home
So how do you achieve hygge in the home? It first starts with junk removal. You need to get rid of all the objects in your environment that detract from your wellbeing.
The next step is to create environments that allow you to surround yourself with friends and family. Having communal spaces in your property makes it much more likely that you’ll be able to incorporate them into your lifestyle.
The third step is to keep everything simple and pure. Where possible, use natural materials. Create a serene space that feels peaceful and free from clutter. Choose a monochrome background, like slate blue, and then embellish it with fluffy pillows, metallic ornaments and pastel vases.
Many people looking to create hygge interiors light candles. This method was particularly popular in Scandinavia during the winter months when the sun only comes up for a few hours at a time. Candles help to make the most of the light and also create a relaxing atmosphere inside.
If you want, you can also create a hygge-style snug. This nook in your home is ideal for reading, listening to music or just spending time away from everyone else in peace and quiet.
At the centre of the hygge home is the roaring fireplace. The sound, light and heat emitted evokes a sense of relaxation and calm. If you don’t have a fireplace, you can use an interior woodburner. These are particularly suited to hygge cabins in the forest since they create tremendous warmth in a short space of time
Lastly, you can introduce textured materials to your floors and walls. Many hygge homes have a thick rug on the floor and plenty of neutral, natural colours.
