Hygge

How to inject hygge into your home

Peace, harmony and contentment - just three words commonly used to describe the ever-popular hygge interior style. Still going strong after two decades at the top, our love affair with Danish-influenced decor is far from over.

Combining aesthetics and functionality without compromising on style, we’ve come a long way from the early days of Habitat/Conran/Ikea. People across the globe continue to feverishly embrace nordic interior design elements in a bid to encapsulate what it means to incorporate  ‘hygge’ in their homes. 
 

What is hygge interior design? 

Hygge (pronounced hoo-gah) is a Scandinavian concept which embodies ‘cosiness’. Hygge encompasses a feeling of contentment and well-being while enjoying life’s simple pleasures. Although it’s largely associated with colder months, hygge is actually a way of life to embrace all year round. 

If you’re new to the hygge way of life, one of the best ways to play with its core principles is to bring simple design elements into your home. 

You may be scratching your head wondering where to start, but don’t worry!   Below, we’ve outlined five steps to help get you started. 

You’ll be living like a Dane before you know it…

Copenhagen

Keep your space clean, clutter-free and minimalist

The detail is in the simplicity to create a calm and relaxed environment within your home. Remember, living a hygge lifestyle means you focus on appreciating the smaller things in life which aren’t necessarily materialistic. Filling a room with too much ‘stuff’ can make a space feel chaotic and overwhelming. This can have an impact on your emotional wellbeing - the opposite of what hygge promotes. On the other hand, minimalist decor can lift a room, filling it with air and light.
 

Embrace a neutral colour palette 

The typical hygge style combines light, neutral colours, making way for splashes of gentle, harmonious shades. Pale coloured woods such as pine, birch and oak reflect light, giving the illusion of ample, airy space. 

Wooden floors are another staple in hygge design - rarely do you see fitted carpets in the main living areas. Instead, rugs are used to not only soften harder floors but also define your seating area by sectioning off parts of the room in a non-intrusive way. 

Don’t be afraid to mix different tones and finishes of wood when selecting your furniture. Wood adds depth and texture in contrast to the typical greys, creams and whites of your walls or sofas.
 

Bring the outdoors in

One of the key principles of any hygge home is to bring the outdoors inside. Add lots of potted plants to your home (faux will also work if you’re not blessed with green fingers!), including easy to care for succulents, trailing vines and air purifying greenery. Displaying bunches of fresh flowers in the spring is also an excellent way to freshen up your home.


Layer textures and materials

The main focus of hygge is to create a comfortable space. Don’t be afraid to play with different textures and materials. Ultra-soft throw blankets and throw pillows will add warmth to your home (especially if it’s coupled with the ALASKA) while a shag pile or faux fur rug will soften wooden flooring. 

Don’t forget to consider pattern and colour in relation to the overall design of your space. If you’ve gone for neutral walls, you can afford to experiment with pops of colour or splashes of a pattern. If you’ve gone for a heavily designed wallpaper, stick to simple accessories and soft furnishings.


Add cosy accents and ambience

One of the best ways to make a room instantly feel cosier is to light candles, display fairy lights, or better yet, set a roaring fireplace. Snuggle up in the ALEX with your favourite book and a cup of tea to experience ultimate calm.

 

If, like the Danes, you want to embrace the hygge way of life but need a little more guidance when it comes to selecting the right furniture for you, we’re here to help. 

Together, we’ll create a living space that you (and the Danes!) will be proud of. 


Enjoy 10% off your first order with the code CROME10 at the checkout.

Follow us on Instagram for more tips and inspiration: @cromeinteriors 

Moa

Posted by Sian Dennis
23rd May 2022

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