Hygge and your home
Around 2017, the Danish term “hygge” was catapulted into public discourse, becoming part of the lexicon.
As much a way of living as it is design or product, the term is synonymous with a sense of belonging. It encapsulates the warm, cosy and uncomplicated way of living so many of us crave as the temperatures drop and the nights draw in.
Hygge means a lot of different things, and there is no definitive way to create the hygge vibe in your home. So, if you’re looking for a way to turn your home into a sanctuary from the elements this autumn, I’d like to share a couple of ideas to get you started.
Small and simple
Hygge removes us from the often over-stimulating modern world and encourages us to embrace a simplicity of living.
With this in mind, creating a calm, comforting environment needn’t be a huge task - nor should it be. In part, hygge can be seen as a celebration of the ordinary, giving value to unremarkable things we do in the understanding they can play a significant role in achieving a greater goal.
Achieving hygge can be as simple as taking the time to really savour a hot cup of coffee on a cold afternoon, or ensure surfaces are clear of clutter to create a sense of peace in the home.
Cosiness in contrast
As the days shorten and the weather worsens, there’s nothing quite like the feeling of retreating into your home to escape the elements. Creating an environment in contrast to the outside world is the essence of hygge.
By arranging your furniture around a fireplace or wood burner as your focal point - as oppose to a TV - you can accentuate the feeling of warmth and welcome, while simultaneously diverting attention away from the distraction of technology.
Draw the curtains, dim the lights or light a candle. Embrace the desire to retreat and seek shelter with a good book or the people who mean most to you. You could even plan ahead by laying out a throw or blanket in anticipation of returning home at the end of the day, too.
If you need help bringing a little bit of hygge into your home this autumn, please get in touch for more ideas and guidance from our expert interior design team.