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Trendwatch: How to Create a Hygge Home

hygge image fireplace

Have you heard of Hygge? It’s a Danish word that doesn’t have a direct translation — although coziness and hominess are close — and it’s certainly becoming a big thing in the states.

Huffington Post says, “Hygge is about feeling calm, feeling connected to your own sense of wellbeing, and above all feeling cozy.” There are even two new books devoted to the Hygge lifestyle: The Book of Hygge by Louisa Thomson Brits and The Little Book of Hygge by Meik Wiking.

Feet in wool socks warming by cozy fire

What is Hygge?

It’s pronounced “hoo-ga” or “hue-ga,” and it’s the style and lifestyle that helps the Danes get through their long, cold winters (yeah, we can relate).

According to the Observer, Hygge is best described as “a living room where the fireplace is roaring, candles line the room, no one is looking at their phone and you’re all under blankets eating home-baked cookies and drinking mulled cider.”

The way you decorate your home can help you achieve a Hygge feeling. Start with the simple act of decluttering and also think about decorating with intention. With Minnesota’s Danish-style winter upon us, this seems like a good time to share some ways to make your home more Hygge.

decorating with hygge
Source

Candles

Candles are a big part of the Hygge atmosphere. They say Danish people burn more candles per year than any other group on earth, and it’s not even close. Candles create a soft, warm glow that feels comfortable and makes everything more attractive. Consider the flameless candles as they pose less of a fire hazard.

Spa concept in night with candles still life

Blankets and Pillows

It’s hard to be comfy (or Hygge) without these staples. Drape throws on your couch and chairs or place in baskets ready for guests to grab to make your home super inviting.

Peaceful image of open book resting on a arm rest of a couch. Warm fireplace on background.

Comfort Food and Drink

Hygge is all about nourishment. If you’re a guest in a Danish home you’ll immediately be asked if you’d like something to drink or eat. Comfort food like cakes, stews, and home-baked bread – it doesn’t have to be fancy. Hygge is all about treating your home like a retreat from the daily grind, so wash it down with a warm cup of tea or cocoa.

Author Trine Hahnemann was just at Majors & Quinn last week promoting her new book Scandinavian Comfort Food: Embracing the Art of Hygge. “The Stephanies”  from The Weekly Dish had lots of good things to say about her book. Looks like a great gift idea for a friend or yourself.

 

hygge scandinavian_cookbook

More Things that are Hygge

If you’re still having a hard time grasping this abstract, yet comfortable concept, the Observer has a list of more things that are absolutely Hygge.

  • Fireplaces
  • Comfy chairs
  • Things made of wood, or ceramic
  • Lots of books
  • Big sweaters
  • Picnics
  • Trust
  • Christmas
  • Wool socks
  • Gardens
  • Dogs
  • Popcorn
  • Autumn
  • Scarves
  • Pajamas
  • Hot chocolate with marshmallows

So, throw another log on the fire, curl up on the couch with a nice warm cocoa, and spend some quality time with your friends. You’re not being lazy, you’re being Hygge.

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