How to Heighten the Hygge in Your Home

The concept of hygge comes from the Scandinavian country of Denmark. The word is considered difficult to translate, but it involves a focus on cozy comfort and togetherness. Imagine a family spending a cold winter evening in a warm living room sipping hot chocolate. There might be friendly conversation or everyone may be reading their favorite book. This type of image embodies the hygge lifestyle. Here are some ways you can increase the feeling of hygge in your home.

Comfortable Clothing

The hygge way of life prizes comfort over style. Replace your fancy, uncomfortable shoes with socks or slippers. Do not be afraid to lounge in your most comfortable pair of sweatpants. Because northern countries, like Denmark, experience long winter nights, many people associate hygge with oversized sweaters and other apparel designed for warmth.

Simple Decorations

To create an atmosphere of hygge, you want to keep your home decorations simple. The Scandinavian decorating style uses simple color schemes and clean lines. In terms of accent pieces, look for throw rugs, blankets and pillows that are solid-colored and soft. Other items in your home should have meaning for you. The hygge lifestyle is not about isolation but celebrates connections with family and friends. Hygge-centered homes often display items that have sentimental value. If you have an object on display, be prepared to tell its story.

Sources of Light

An atmosphere of hygge will feature soft lighting around sources that draw people together. If you have ever spent a winter’s evening around a fireplace, you know the ideal light of a hygge home. For the sake of safety, you will want more lighting. Candles can give your home a warm glow. When you use electric lights, choose soft white bulbs that you can dim to enhance the mood. During the day, let the sunlight be your main light source. Installing a window allowing natural light will provide a gentler atmosphere than fluorescent lighting.

Comfortable Seating

Seating is designed for different purposes. Formal, hard-backed chairs encourage you to sit up straight as you work or eat a meal. In hygge style, the focus is on comfort. You want seating that invites your guests to stay put for a while and be comfortable. Choose chairs and couches with plenty of cushioning that are made from soft materials.

Adopting a hygge lifestyle means creating a space where people can slow down and relax. Your home will be a place where guests feel comfortable. Together, you can celebrate the simple joy of a cozy community.

If you are looking to improve the outside of your home rather than the inside, check out these tips on how to maximize your curb appeal!