What is Hygge? Our Guide to Hygge Decor & Design
Cozy up with this dreamy Danish design style.
If you want to create a home that is designed for comfort and relaxation, hygge might be the answer you're looking for. Not sure what hygge is or how to incorporate it into your home? Keep reading to learn more about this cozy Danish concept, including info on hygge style and tips on perfecting hygge decor.
What is Hygge?
Hygge, pronounced like "hue-gah," is a Danish concept that focuses on enjoying life's small details. Though there isn't a one-to-one translation, hygge is often seen as "coziness" or "togetherness." Hygge aims to find joy and happiness in everyday moments shared with the ones we love.
In addition to being a mindful lifestyle, this idea of joy and coziness adds an ultra-inviting element to interior decorating. To bring the principles of hygge to your home, try incorporating cozy textures, ambient lighting, and plush fabrics.
Key Elements of Hygge Design
Hygge design focuses on creating welcoming and serene spaces where you can spend time with loved ones. With a balance of minimalism, soft textures, and nature, hygge style makes your home feel cozy and lived-in.
Warmth is another key part of hygge design. A combination of flickering candles and ambient lighting gives the space an inviting glow. Even better, a crackling fireplace adds the right amount of ambience and provides warmth on chilly evenings.
Hygge spaces are relaxed and pared-down, so it's best to minimize any distracting items. This less-is-more approach helps cut down on visual clutter and place an emphasis on choosing pieces intentionally.
How to Master Hygge Decor
We've put together a list of easy ways to add hygge style to your home.
Stick to Calming Neutrals
Hygge style relies on neutral tones to build a soothing, sanctuary-like color palette. Think creamy whites, pale grays, and warm shades of beige. These neutrals work wonderfully with key elements of hygge, such as minimalism and nature. When looking for furniture, go for clean-lined silhouettes in neutral upholstery to create a comfortable space in which to enjoy time with loved ones. Incorporate pieces made from wood to add some warmth and natural charm to your space.
Lighting is a key part of hygge design, so it's important to choose lighting that cultivates a cozy atmosphere. Candles, lamps, wall sconces, and fireplaces are ideal for adding a warm ambience to your space. Top your coffee table with a candelabra filled with white taper candles to create a structural display, or cluster a few pillar candles together for a more natural arrangement.
Hygge decor is all about surrounding yourself with warmth and comfort, so we love using a variety of cozy textures. Top the sofa with plush throw pillows made from different materials, such as a fluffy faux fur or a textured weave. Anchor the space with a soft area rug in neutral tones. Pick a braided jute rug to bring a natural touch to a seating area, or opt for an Oriental-inspired rug to add a bit of timeless style.
Introduce cozy colors and patterns by layering area rugs. Place a small rug on top of a larger rug to add a sense of dimension. Don't be afraid to mix patterns. One easy way to mix and match rug patterns is to pick two patterns in different sizes. For example, one rug could have an oversized geometric design while the other has a smaller, more intricate Oriental-inspired rug.
Hygge extends beyond interiors and represents a Scandinavian way of life that celebrates small moments. One of our favorite ways to bring hygge home is staying in bed for an extra hour, so why not make sure that your bed is as comfortable as possible? Dress up your bed with cozy bedding and plush pillows. Opt for soft organic materials, such as cotton or linen, for breathable comfort. Finish with a knit throw blanket or two for extra warmth – or so that you can snuggle up for an afternoon nap.
A large part of the hygge way of life is spending time with friends and family. Create a welcoming environment by setting the table and sharing a home-cooked meal. Look for dinnerware with an artisan-like quality, such as a glazed ceramic finish. Finish with a vase filled with hand-picked botanicals for a touch of bright greenery.
Because hygge design follows a less-is-more approach to decorating, it's best to choose pieces thoughtfully. Pick decor items that have sentimental value, such as framed photos of your favorite memories or memorabilia that you picked up during a vacation. These personalized pieces will spark joy and evoke some of your happiest memories.
With an emphasis on connection and appreciation, nature is another core element of hygge spaces. Fill your home with elements that take inspiration from nature, such as warm-toned wood paneling or leafy houseplants. The bright green foliage adds a refreshing touch while also purifying the air and helping you de-stress.
