Hygge is one buzzword we haven’t been able to escape in recent years. It’s been transforming homes around the world, but how can you incorporate this defining Danish characteristic into your humble abode?
Here at the House of So Cosy, we love all things hygge and think you should too. In this blog post, we offer the ultimate guide to ‘hyggeing’ your home so you can add more happiness and contentment to your special space.
What exactly is hygge?
Pronounced ‘hoo-gah’, hygge isn’t just a home décor trend, it’s a way of life. Hygge is often described as a quality of cosiness and comfort that boosts feelings of contentment and happiness.
Hygge is a principle that originates from Danish culture and has been rising in popularity all over the globe. But, as this excerpt from Country Living proves, hygge is no new thing:
“Similar to the German concept of gemütlichkeit and the Dutch idea of gezelligheid, the warm and cozy lifestyle that hygge promotes has been a key part of Danish culture since the early 1800s when the word first appeared in the written language (it’s derived from a Norwegian word for “well-being”).”
In Danish, the word ‘hygge’ actually means, ‘to give courage, comfort, and joy’. Hygge principles are now being applied to our homes to boost joy and wellbeing.
How can I hygge my home?
Whilst hygge styling tips have been the go-to design principles for people throughout Scandinavia for many years, they’ve only been embraced by the rest of the world in recent years.
Hyggeing the home is one trend that has been a mainstay, with hygge able to be easily and affordably applied to properties of all shapes and sizes.
Every hygge home begins with a neutral colour scheme. Bold colours can be too overwhelming, but a more neutral palette of creams, beiges and light greys reflects the peace and harmony that hygge represents.
Remember, comfort is key when creating a hygge home, which means you can go crazy with the soft furnishings!
In a hygge home, you can never have too many throws, blankets or cushions. Choose natural materials to add warmth and texture to your home. Wool and jute are all-natural materials that embody the hygge principle no-end.
Make your bed or sofa extra comfy or create a cosy reading nook where you can relax with a good book by adding an alpaca or merino wool throw. Bring the outside in by introducing other natural materials, such as wood, to your home.
In addition, your home’s lighting scheme will also make a huge difference. Create a cosy hygge atmosphere with plenty of candles, fairy lights, and other soft-lighting features.
Discover more ways to add cosy touches to your home here.
Can I hygge my entire life?
As we mentioned previously, hygge is a way of life. Whether at home or out and about, hygge can make you feel calm and comfortable, with many stating that leading a hygge lifestyle can improve life dramatically. Be present and thankful, making sure technology doesn’t distract from what is really important in your life.
Expand your mind by reading more books and appreciate your surroundings by taking regular walks outdoors – not forgetting to layer your clothes to ensure extra cosiness. Enjoy a hot drink or cosy meal with those closest to you on a regular basis, and more importantly, be sure to make time for yourself.