Hygge décor is not what people think. It is not a thing that you can go out and buy; it is more of a feeling.
Hygge (pronounced hue-gush) is a Danish word. The Hygge definition means a certain quality of coziness, and when incorporated into interior design, it helps to bring a feeling of well-being or contentment into your home. In other words, it is a state of mind that will have you feeling present in your environment and enjoying the present.
When we talk about hygge in interior design, it is about creating intimacy and bringing coziness into your home. Hygge style is not cluttering your home up with expensive furnishings and artwork, although you can certainly create a cozy feeling in that way. It is more about enjoying life’s simpler side.
The cozy meaning of hygge has played a role in Danish culture since early in the 1800s. It made its way across the ocean to the US in 2017, with eight books published on the topic within a few months of each other.
Hygge décor became one of the hottest home design trends in 2017. Does that mean you have already missed the bandwagon? Not at all, remember, it is not as much about style as it is creating a feeling.
Incorporating Hygge Décor Into Your Home
When some people first hear about hygge décor, Scandinavian design comes to mind with its simple, clean lines. Today, there is a movement towards environmental sustainability and green living. While hygge “style” is neither of these things, they can become a part of it because hygge is not a design trend in and of itself, but a state of being. You can incorporate sustainable design anywhere, at any time.
As you look at the photos below, courtesy of Ocean Blue Coastal Retreats, you will see that the rooms are uncluttered. That does not mean you must put away all your favorite possessions. Remember, it is more about creating a “feeling” of coziness and warmth. Those precious photos and knickknacks hold meaning and add your personal touch. The Swedish word lagom fits in well here, as it means just the right amount.
Color schemes in whites and neutrals create a calming sensation. Warm woods, plants, water features, bamboo, and other natural elements are a stark difference when compared to wrought iron, chrome, and metals. One invigorates and excites while the other brings relaxation. Again – it is about creating a specific feeling.
Think for a minute about hygge meaning and the word cozy. When looking around your home and contemplating the cozy definition, what comes to mind?
For many people up north at this time of year, fireplaces bring a sense of warmth and coziness. Cuddling up with a good book, your pet, or someone you love and enjoying the moment.
Lighting can alter the mood in any room, and there is nothing like the natural light flickering from candles. In fact, candles are an important aspect of creating a hyggelig (hygge-like) atmosphere in the Danish home. Not only do you find candles burned in their homes, but in classrooms and boardrooms, as well. Here at home, more than a billion pounds of wax go into the manufacturing of candles sold in the US each year. If you regularly burn candles in your home, you are well on your way to creating hyggelig.
Throw blankets, oversized pillows, floor cushions, plush rugs – these are items that bring a cozy feel to your home. As a matter of fact, cozy blankets are a crucial aspect of hygge, so go ahead and drape one over a sofa or chair.
While you are at it, think about carving out a small area in your home as a cozy reading nook.
Going Beyond Hygge Décor In Your Life
There is a certain mindfulness to hygge. It is being present in the moment and brings a sense of wellness to your life. Taking hygge into your kitchen may find you brewing a cup of hot chocolate, making a hearty stew, or baking a cake or cookies. Think comfort foods that fill the home with a pleasing aroma.
What is hygge going to do for you?
Whether you are incorporating hygge décor into one or all the rooms of your home, stocking up on candles and wool socks, or preparing your favorite soup, you are living in the moment and creating a new “feeling” in your life. If hygge sounds like bliss to you, then you are not alone.
Would you like help incorporating aspects of hygge décor in your home? HK Interiors provides interior design services that can help you transform your home or office into the vision you desire. Call us at 954-401-8542 today.