Long, dark nights and stormy weather have us craving a roaring fire, fluffy slippers, and a soft blanket to curl up under. As the Danes would say, we want to get hygge. Hygge (pronounced hoo-gah) is the Danish concept of coziness and intimacy—as one tea company puts it, hygge is "taking pleasure from the soothing, ordinary, and inexpensive things in life"—and it has made its way across the Atlantic. Danes use “hygge” as both a noun and an adjective. However, they also have a separate adjectival form, “hyggelig” (pronounced “HUE-gah-lee”), to describe things that have hygge. They also use “hygge” as an add-on to other words, as in “hyggebusker” (slouchy pants that you only wear around the house) and “hyggekrog” (a cozy reading nook).

To achieve optimal hygge in your own home, grab a warm drink, put on your chunkiest sweater, and check out the below tips.

The great thing about the hygge trend is that it’s incredibly easy to embrace on a budget. Most of the things that are central to the hygge lifestyle – such as candles, home-cooked meals, and intimate gatherings of friends – cost little or nothing.

Keep it pure and simple

1. Decorate with candles.

When you think of candles, what is the first thing that comes to mind? Perhaps it’s romance, a relaxing bath or a calm night with a book. These are all things that encompass the hygge lifestyle. The soft and kind glow of a candle cannot be replicated by anything else and should be used throughout your home to create a warm radiance.

 

2. Let There Be (More) Light.

Okay, so it’s not just about candles. Because they are surrounded in darkness for much of the winter, the Danes take their lighting very seriously. A hyggelig home not only draws in as much natural light as possible, but then also has carefully selected unique lamps to create soothing pools of light.

Position your table and floor, table lamps where you want to invite coziness, and choose light bulbs that are lower in temperature (Kelvins, examples below). Also, treat lighting fixtures like art, unique art. In Danish homes, they are often beautifully designed pieces that command attention. For instance this unique piece, 

What associations do you have when looking at this blown-glass lamp? 

Maybe balloon? The one that won't float away, allowing you to enjoy the lighting and charming presence any time. 

If you want to add instant style and sophistication to any space, this type of lamps is a GO.

You can also check examples of unique art pieces by clicking here or
https://www.hyggecave.com/collections/lighting

Soft White(2700K – 3000K)
Bright White/Cool White (3500K – 4100K)
Daylight (5000K – 6500K)

 

3. Light up the area with twinkly lights.

Twinkly lights are also ideal when it comes to hygge decor. Not only are they cheery and festive, but they look great everywhere. You can use them in your bedroom, living room, or even outdoor patio! Like candles, they give off a softer light and can add a pleasant touch to your home design without being too overwhelming.

 

4. Create a comfortable atmosphere.

Coziness is key when it comes to hygge decor. One way to do this is by decorating with fluffy pillows and soft comforters. Snuggle up on the couch with layers of blankets and pillows for a warm place to unwind. You can also do this by creating cozy nooks like a window bench or love seat. These make for a great place to relax with a good book and cup of hot cocoa for some peace and quiet.

When it comes to sleep, finding the right pillow can make all the difference.

As with any home décor project, you want to make sure you have not only a great looking pillow, but also the right pillow that make you relax.

You can also check examples of best pillows by clicking here or   
https://www.hyggecave.com/collections/pillows

 

5. Stick to a neutral color scheme.

The color scheme for your home decor should never be too overwhelming when it comes to hygge. Everything you add to your hygge home should contribute to an atmosphere of harmony and peace. Sticking to a neutral color palette is important when creating a relaxing space. Using pastel colors like light grays, browns and creams will create a comfortable area for you and your guests to enjoy.

6. Find Natural Elements.

There may not be a lot of green outdoors through the winter months, but that doesn’t stop the Danes from bringing it inside to lighten and brighten! The same goes for wood accents. Wood floors, furniture, even toys — all help us feel closer to nature. Take a cue from nature (which is innately relaxing and stress-busting) and add some greenery to your home. Can't keep plants alive? Add natural materials like leather, stone, and wood to your space. And that is a very important part of the hygge concept. So bring the outside in!

7. Add texture.

Texture may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of cozy hygge decor. However, introducing texture to your living space is a great way to add interest to an otherwise minimalist design. You can do this by incorporating warm, natural materials like wood and wool to your decor. You can also add variety with different types of texture on rags and blankets, such as these rags:

You can also check more examples by clicking here or   
https://www.hyggecave.com/collections/rugs

Blankets are must-haves in any hygge household, especially during the cold months of winter. To snuggle up with a blanket is very hyggeligt, and sometimes one does it even though one is not feeling cold, simply because it is cosy.

It is also a great example of adding texture to achieve comforting and a gratifying balance to a room.

 

8. REACH FOR SOMETHING SOFT.

Soft coziness is a big part of hygge, says Meik Wiking, author of "The Little Book of Hygge: Danish Secrets to Happy Living". Meik Wiking suggests surrounding yourself with soft items like knitted fleece throw blankets, fluffy pillows, shag rugs, and comfy furniture.

This particular examples you can find by clicking here or   
https://www.hyggecave.com/collections/blankets/products/chunky-knitted-blanket

 

9. Create a spa-style bathroom.

Instead of just using your bathroom for a quick shower in the morning, make it a relaxing retreat. Your bathroom should be a place you go to for rest and rejuvenation. To create a bathroom that is pleasant and peaceful, make sure you to have lots of hidden storage space to avoid any unwanted clutter. For extra enjoyment, invest in candles and comfy robes for a design that is laid-back and serene.

With just a few touches, a bathroom can feel like a sanctuary where you can escape the world.
Candles, candles and candles. Then add some candles.

And …. Take your bath ritual to the next level with a caddy to hold essential oils, those candles, and fresh flowers.

 

10. Simplicity is Key.

And lastly, remember that to live Danishly is about simplifying. About only surrounding yourself with the things that really make you happy. Hygge is not about extravagance, but about taking pleasure in the sheer simplicity of your immediate surroundings. Use your space for living rather than a storage of stuff. 

https://www.hyggecave.com/collections/kitchenware/products/metal-serving-tray

 

 

 

resources:
ftd, theculturetrip, mentalfloss, theeverygirl