Hygge (pronounced ‘Hue-gah’) is a Norwegian word with no direct English translation. Pop it into Google Translate and it comes out as ‘fun’. Ask around and most people will associate it with cosiness, but it’s more than just a cosy feeling.
Hygge is not something you can buy. It’s a feeling. It’s a way of life. An appreciation of life’s simplest pleasures. The best description we have read about Hygge is as follows:
Hygge is all about using the 5 senses to absorb the joy of even the simplest things; the smell of apple and cinnamon cake; the words of a lovely poem; the feeling of lying in your bed in freshly ironed linen; or just looking out at the autumn colours in the garden. Hygge is everywhere; you just need to discover it.
So, how can we bring that into our lives through our home?
Candles
Ask a Danish person and they will tell you that candles are the most important part of creating Hygge in your home. Candles give off natural light, creating a much warmer and cosier atmosphere. Using the dimmer switch on lamps can also help to create this atmosphere in your home.
Natural Materials
The use of natural materials, textures and plants indoors help to bring the outdoors in. Having a sense of nature indoors helps to create a calm and stress-free environment.
K.I.S.S. (Keep It Simple Stupid)
The Danish are renowned for their calm and simple interiors. You won’t see bold colour schemes and lots of clutter inside a Danish home. Instead, they use pastel colours and simple ‘back to basics’ flooring and shelving to create a sense of calm.
Warmth
The use of throws and cushions in smaller spaces create an intimate environment to enjoy with friends. It could be a great idea to sit and read a book or snuggle and relax.
Atmosphere
Hygge isn’t just about how you decorate your home. It’s also about how you spend your time. So light the candles, invite some friends over, lock the phones away and enjoy some quality time together.
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All of these things will help to bring Hygge into your home. But, more than anything, just remember to appreciate the simple things that bring joy into your life. That’s really the essence of Hygge.
