Picture a living room where soft throws, flickering candles, and calming neutral tones create a haven of warmth and relaxation. That’s the idea behind Hygge, the Danish art of coziness. Whether you’re unwinding with a cup of tea or enjoying a quiet moment, a hygge-inspired space wraps you in comfort and serenity. Ready to embrace the cozy life? Let’s explore how to turn your living room into the ultimate snug retreat.
What exactly is Hygge?
Hygge (pronounced hoo-ga) is a Norwegian word that means coziness. It’s a Danish concept characterized by simplicity that embodies a feeling of comfort and contentment. At its core, hygge is about slowing down and savoring moments that bring joy and relaxation, helping to create a sense of well-being and balance in everyday life.
Elements of Hygge Design
Hygge design is all about simplicity and functionality. Here are some easy ways to incorporate hygge elements into your living room.
Space
Hygge spaces are uncluttered, light and airy spaces with distinct areas.
- Clutter is stressful. The first step is to declutter your room. This gives you the blank canvas to thoughtfully consider what belongs here.
- If you’re ready for a painting project, paint your walls in a light earth tone such as white, off-white or cream.
- Add sheer drapes or window coverings in shades of those same colors.
- Plan out cozy places within the room to gather, such as a reading corner and conversation nook.
Furnishings
When considering your furniture, look for modern, minimalistic designs.
- Draw inspiration from Scandinavian furniture with clean lines, rounded edges and tapered legs.
- Avoid stiff furnishings. Instead choose a chair with overstuffed arms or super soft upholstery.
- Blend old and new. You can incorporate vintage furniture next to modern.
- Arrange seating for conversation and interaction, rather than around the television.
- Less is more but make sure you have ample seating for everyone.
Calming Neutrals
The neutral color palette used in hygge design draws inspiration from nature.
- Choose calming tones such as creams, grays and browns. Think of the colors that you find in natural shades of wood.
- Select patterns with similar colors that will not disrupt the harmony.
- Avoid bright pops of color. Instead, go deeper with earth tones.
- Everything you add should create a peaceful atmosphere.
Tactile Textiles
A neutral palette allows the textures to really stand out.
- Choose materials that invite you to touch them, such as fluffy pillows, thick knits, boucle blankets, and items made of linen, cashmere, and fuzzy mohair.
- Add a deep pile area rug that invites your toes to sink in.
- Layer your textures. Group together throws and cushions of different textures.
- Pile blankets high in a wicker basket within easy reach of your seating area.
Soft Lighting
Lighting creates the right ambiance for relaxation.
- Just as you layer fabrics, you can layer lighting. Choose an overall dimmer switch for full room lighting that can be adjusted to fit your mood. Then add pockets of lighting in areas within your space.
- Use a floor lap or table lamp in your reading nook. Choose light bulbs with a warm color temperature. Lamps with frosted shades offer beautiful, filtered light.
- Candles provide a flickering glow. Choose flameless varieties that are safe around kids and pets, for increased fire safety.
- Twinkling lights give off a softer light than your overhead light. Choose tiny white or clear lights that work with hygge décor.
Natural Elements
Hygge is inspired by a connection to nature. Bring those natural elements inside.
- Add potted plants, fresh or dried flowers, for some natural inspiration.
- Incorporate organic materials like wood and stone in furniture and décor.
- Consider wood floors, wooden bookcases and shiplap paneling on walls.
- Display artwork depicting scenes in nature or using natural items or themes.
Décor
Hygge is about minimalism. You’ll want to keep your décor simple and meaningful.
- Display your treasures—the things that are meaningful to you. That includes children’s artwork, DIY crafts and family photos.
- Avoid overcrowding shelves and tables with knickknacks.
- Less is more when it comes to décor. Start with a blank slate and add one or two pieces to create that cozy, welcoming feel.
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