READING TIME: 5 MINS
(COASTAL) HYGGE
“Hygge is about having less, enjoying more; the pleasure of simply being. It is generous and celebratory, a way to remember the importance of the simple act of living itself.”
Hygge (pronounced “hoo-ga”) is a Danish concept of creating joy and cosiness in everyday moments.
The concept of Scandinavian cosiness has made inroads into the world of interior design over the past few years. But, hygge is so much more than a trend or a concept, it is a state of mind and can be described as enjoying life’s simple pleasures, and the art of creating a warm and inviting space for yourself, friends and family. Let’s explore…
Hygge Lifestyle
The beauty of hygge is that it is all about the way we feel - placing importance on positive emotions. Even though hygge is a concept that is often associated with the darker winter months, it is actually meant to be enjoyed all year round; hygge is about creating a relaxing atmosphere and an experience, rather than about things. Hygge has even been linked to lowered stress levels and anxiety, and heightened feelings of gratitude and self-worth. The hygge lifestyle encourages us to look at what truly brings us joy in our lives, and make sure we include those things in our days.
Here are some ways how to create a home that softly whispers relax… and brings cosiness to your soul. Find out ‘how to hygge’ and how to create a hygge-inspired home.
“Hygge is humble and slow. It is choosing rustic over new, simple over posh and ambience over excitement. In many ways, hygge might be the Danish cousin to slow and simple living.”
HOW TO ‘HYGGE’
Hygge is about you enjoying life’s simplest pleasures.
Get hygge with friends and family
Enjoy the simple pleasures of life
Take a digital detox
Appreciate your surroundings
Be present and thankful
Enjoy a good read with a fresh brew
“Material goods rarely alter our levels of happiness, unlike emotional experience. Having can never replace being.”
THE hygge-inspired home
Here are some some characteristics of hygge that translate well into home decor, these include:
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MINIMALISM AND PURE SIMPLICITY
Simple and considered detail is all that is needed to transform your space into a hygge-inspired home. Remove the clutter. Stick with only the essential items and functional designs that aim to take away stress. ‘Hygge design’ is very much centred around minimalism and a ‘less is more’ mentality.
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PRIORITISE COMFORT
Coziness is absolute key when it comes to hygge decor. Create an environment that allows you to enjoy the moment and experience life’s little pleasures. Add a few cushions, throws, and rugs – anything that helps to make a space cosier.
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KEEP IT NEUTRAL
When choosing paint colours, try to stick with a neutral colour palette and whites for your walls throughout your home to create a sense of space and calm. Avoid too bright colours, instead opt for simple and less intense tones to create a relaxing space (pastels like light shades of greys, earthy browns and creams). Loud colour tones tend to evoke strong emotions that might not be consistent with the hygge philosophy as such. The idea is to create harmony, a sense of calm, and a serene space throughout.
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NATURAL MATERIALS, WARM TEXTURES, NEUTRAL COLOURS
To prevent your home from feeling ‘too white’ and sterile, add texture and interest through an array of tactile materials. Cashmere and merino knitted wool blankets, linen cushions, Nordic sheepskins or faux fur throws and soft rugs instantly create a relaxing ambiance. When choosing your fundamental materials and colours, try opting for warm palettes.
Incorporate scandi inspired wooden furnishings with rustic decor accents. Natural oak or warm textured walnut as flooring combined with knitted furnishings, for example, can be highly complementary with a natural colour scheme.
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LIGHTING, DECORATE WITH CANDLES AND LIGHT A FIRE
Opt for the glow of warm mood lighting, accent lighting is perfect for creating a soft ‘hygge environment’. Infuse your space with a comforting glow and flickering light with a simple candle being seen as one of the most fundamental parts of the hygge experience. A roaring fire is the perfect complement for hygge homes. It represents warmth and togetherness.
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STAY IN BED A LITTLE LONGER…
This one is one of my favourites… find time to spend an extra while in bed. Hygge really encourages this concept! Use quilts, blankets and super fluffy pillows to create an indulgent place to chillax.
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EMBRACE THE IMPERFECT AND DISPLAY TREASURED MEMORIES
Let in a little wabi sabi, or even practice kintsugi. The good thing about hygge is that nothing has to be perfect; it really is more about the sentimentality of an item. Items of sentimental value complete a serene environment and in a way create that nostalgic and homely feel - consider items such as your favourite family photos, travel paraphernalia, or prints and paintings. But remember, less is much, much more - don’t go into clutter-mode.
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BIOPHILIC DESIGN
Nature is very much embraced in hygge-inspired design. Exposure to natural elements instils feelings of physical and mental wellness. Introduce a variety of florals throughout your home, read more about biophilic design.
“Hygge is about giving your responsible, stressed-out achiever adult a break. Relax.”
I find the coast to be my very hygge place. My coastal adventures take time away from the daily rush and allow me to enjoy the good things in life. Draw upon your unique surroundings, or your favourite place. Let your own comfort guide you to find your own little hygge and contentment in the everyday.