What is hygge?
A steamy cup of hot chocolate.
Reading your favorite book under a cozy wool blanket.
An afternoon hiking in the forests with your best friends.
Drinking coffee in bed on a Sunday and reading the paper.
Fluffy pillows. Adventures outside. A vintage lamp. Cooking with mom.
Sounds perfect, right? Well, this is what hygge, Denmark’s answer to “coziness,” is all about.
Like Feng Shui, hygge is a word usually associated with interior design but, in reality, it is so much more. Ranked multiple times as one of the happiest countries in the world, Denmark and its people seem to be doing something right. Danes have been praised for their practical yet modern and disruptive design aesthetic. For example, if you ever visit Copenhagen, don’t miss the Design Museum – its exhibitions, gift shop, and restaurant are remarkable. The New Nordic Food movement influences cuisines around the world.
So, what is their secret? Well, it may be simpler than you think: creating joy around everyday moments.
The Meaning
Hygge can’t actually be translated literally into English. Some say it stands for coziness and comfort, others claim it is more in line with creating intimacy. Anyway, we could define hygge as a concept that puts the joy found in everyday moments at the forefront. This involves everything from being present to decorating your house according to this philosophy. Read on to discover how to incorporate this laid-back way of thinking and living into your daily life:
1. Nurture a Hygge House
In line with the core concepts of Scandinavian design, hygge is all about leading a clutter-free life. Every object needs a purpose – and this could also mean having sentimental value. When you decorate a space, think about the memories you want to create there. What will make them unforgettable? How will the decor help you unwind, relax, and reach a calm state of mind? How will furniture and accessories help improve communication between the people who live here and those who come to visit? Danish homes are all about spaces that reflect the people who inhabit them.
2. Put the Focus on Lighting
Turn down the lights! Hygge is all about setting the right mood, creating a calm atmosphere. Lighting is a crucial element in this. Forget about a light in the center of your ceiling. Danish spaces feature all sorts of lamps: modern, boho chic, vintage. Fireplaces are a must when possible. And the most essential element of hygge style: candles. According to a study, 28% of Danes say they light candles every day, 23% 4-6 days a week, 23% 1-3 days a week, 8% less than 1-3 days per month. Tealights are a must in a Danish household.
3. Forget About Tech – As Much As You Can
Being present and enjoying every moment for what it is, is key to hygge. This means – yeah, you know it – turning off your phone. How can you truly enjoy reading a book when you’re checking Instagram notifications every two minutes? Try to savor every moment, to enjoy life’s simple pleasures for what makes them great. The warmth of a hug. The unique flavor of a stew you cooked for hours with your partner. Going to the beach with your dog. Taking a nap without any distractions. Foster togetherness anyway you can.
4. Prioritize Pleasure
Danes are all about crafting bespoke experiences. This means everything from an evening by yourself at home, to a beach getaway with your friends – and everything in between. To truly enjoy life, you have to think about what makes you happy. Delicious treats, of course. Having a decadent chocolate bar or delicious Italian coffee makes any day better. A soft, cashmere sweater is an excellent addition to any closet. A soaking tub is a perfect addition to your bathroom if you love taking long bubble baths.
15 Hygge Must-Haves – Mix and Match as you Please!
- Candles
- Floor lamps
- A reading nook
- Neutral-colored walls
- Books
- Cozy blankets
- Yummy treats
- A plush rug in the bathroom
- Light wood furniture
- Knitted socks
- Comfy PJs
- Old photographs
- Plants! Inside and out
- A bike – there’s nothing more Danish than that
- Your next adventure in the wild already planned out
So, go hygge and discover the Danish way of genuinely enjoying the space you inhabit.