Hygge: Lifestyle and Design Trends

Hygge is a Danish way of life that enhances a feeling of contentment and well-being. Here we have some tips on how you can make your home a happier, more comfortable place.

The meaning of the word

Hygge is a Danish word that now enjoys wide acceptance in many languages as a loanword. Hygge in Danish is not just a word but an attitude towards life and is widely used. It is a practice that creates a balance between work, leisure and family away from everyday stress. Most importantly, the focus is on an ambience that feels good and offers a sense of well-being.

Hygge is interpreted differently and varies from person to person. One person may enjoy a picnic in the countryside, another an evening with friends while someone else might just enjoy a cup of tea or curl up with a good book. Essentially, it's about enriching every situation with joy, warmth and familiarity and savouring it, feeling well and relaxing.

As a design trend, hygge is also an established concept in interior design. It signifies a place or ambience where one can totally relax and recharge one's batteries to face new challenges with renewed vigour.

How do you achieve Hygge?

Hygge is about community, socialising and family, but it also includes creating a place to relax fully. And this place of retreat, rest and relaxation is best made in your own home.

The easiest way to achieve a hygge feeling in your home is to pay close attention to the lighting. When it's dark, switching on several well-placed floor lamps or table lamps around a room is better than a single bright ceiling light. A fireplace or candles are also wonderful because fire adds a touch of warmth and cosiness. Comfortable furnishings including cushions and throws on couches and armchairs create a welcoming, relaxing atmosphere.

A Hygge design for your home

Creating a hygge atmosphere at home does not require waving a magic wand if you keep in mind a few simple points. First of all, a hyggelig home is easiest to achieve with classic, timeless designs. Scatter throws, blankets and cushions on the sofa to add a structured look and a visual anchor to a room. Textured fabrics, warm colours and soft wool are the most comfortable.

Area rugs are an excellent idea as well. The best rugs are large-weave rugs made of viscose or wool. This not only improves the acoustics of a room by absorbing sound, but they also exude an air of peace and comfort.

Materials that feel cold such as plastic or chrome should be avoided as much as possible. Try using natural materials that are soothing and comfortable such as wool and wood. Gentle textures and natural colours enhance the calming, relaxing effect.

Enjoy a hygge lifestyle by relaxing in a soft chair with a good book and a steaming cup of tea at home. Or spend an enjoyable evening with friends. The decision is yours. One thing we know for sure is that hygge has helped make Danes one of the happiest people in the world. To enjoy a more content and relaxed life, we can emulate them and try to incorporate some hygge in our own lives.