Hygge is a Danish word that is best translated as ‘cosy’. It is not a design style as much as a feeling of contentment you get from being happy at home in a warm and loving atmosphere, especially when it’s cold and miserable outside.
What’s great about hygge is that you don’t need to spend a lot to create it in your own home and you can apply it anywhere. Here are some tips about how to get ‘hyggelig’.
Light up some candles
The warm glow of candlelight is hygge and we’re not talking just one or two scented candles. We’re talking lots of little lights that will twinkle and sparkle against the dark and cold of a rainy winter’s day. Get out the tealights and place them safely on bookshelves, mantles and window ledges. Use a tea saucer or water glasses if you don’t have enough candle holders. You really can’t have enough.
Cuddle up on the couch
Cosying up with a loved one on the couch for a movie while its raining outside is definitely hygge. Grab a cuddly blanket to snuggle under, a pet and some hot chocolate and you’re in hygge heaven. If you’ve got kids and its raining outside, build an indoor fort or cubby from couch cushions or a doona cover over the kitchen table. Then eat snacks.
Bring the outdoors indoors with plants
The green of healthy indoor plants soften any room and immediately create a feeling of freshness. Look for plants with large round leaves that feel gentle and inviting and will grow abundantly. This is not the time for spiky succulents and cactus. Plant in ceramic pots that match your decor and look more permanent than just plastic planters.
Soften your home with hygge decor
Hand knitted throw rugs, soft, fluffy cushions, special comfy pants, a cuddly oversized cardigan – decorate your home with hygge touches that make you think “oh thank goodness I’m home”. Tealight candle holders will serve a dual purpose, as will shelves full of beloved books that make both a great decorating statement and the opportunity to immerse yourself in a world of imagination.
Create a hygge nook
Even if it is impractical to expect your entire home to become hyggelig, you can transform a corner or small section that becomes a mini-retreat. Set up a favourite comfy chair in a corner, buy a special cushion and throw rug, and select a special candle. Make this space just for reading or daydreaming. Turn off your phone when you’re in this spot and avoid multi-tasking.