In Denmark, hygge is all about the small joys in life. It’s about creating a warm atmosphere for the people you care about—even just yourself—so you can relax and enjoy the quieter pleasures.
Winter of course is the prime time for hygge; when it’s colder and darker out and we all naturally retreat indoors. But the practice is actually a year-round one that simply changes ever so slightly with the seasons.
Start by thinking of those informal moments, usually when you are resting or feeling cosy at home. What can you do to enhance that kind of nourishing atmosphere? Try these tips.
Dim the lights
You’ll never get that feeling of calm and relaxation with your lights blazing. Consider installing dimmer switches in your main living spaces so you’ll always be able to change the mood at a moment’s notice. You could also just swap out your light bulbs for a lower wattage; that too will go a long way towards creating a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere.
If you’re looking for a new light fixture, the Derek table lamp has that cosy cabin feel. It has a rustic look and an interesting mix of materials—rock, antler and pinecone—that together really encapsulate rugged mountain retreat style. These natural elements have a real warmth to them and the piece definitely makes a design statement.
The neutral tones in the Marnina table lamp are soothing to the eye and will work well with any existing décor. This piece, from the Mane + Mason line, is a true beauty in shades of taupe and white, with a glazed, textural base and a modified drum shade.
The Coenbell pendant light is another favourite. The natural, woven rattan is striking and substantial, yet it has a light and airy feeling about it. It will definitely add warmth—and a dash of bohemian charm—to any room. You can adapt it to any ceiling height so it’s a versatile piece. The softly diffused light it gives off is very pretty.
Maybe it’s not a lighting fixture you’re after but a way to set the mood with candles. Candlelight and a roaring fire are a huge part of hygge culture and this Eudocia candle holder set is the perfect mix of elegant and natural. The seeded-glass hurricane lamps are wrapped in hemp rope, making the perfect shabby chic accent.
Introduce some cozy fabrics
If you’re a texture buff you can’t beat the Raegan throw blanket. The soothing gray/tan mix is a winning colour combination and this faux fur throw is irresistibly soft. (This is the one you will reach for on the coldest nights, the one everyone will try to grab first.) The face is acrylic, the reverse is polyester and it’s also a solid tan so you can change up the look according to your whim.
Prone to catching a chill? Wrap yourself in the Cecile throw blanket. It features a woven tribal design in black and gray, is a lighter construction but is still very insulating and warm. The black cord fringe is a nice finishing touch for this sophisticated piece.
Go for a rug with a thick pile or an extra plush texture, one that makes you want to sit and stay a while longer. The Addylin rug will do just that, thanks to its serene hues and casual style. The design features a dimensional abstract motif with carved high-low details throughout. It’s a casual, contemporary rug, backed with jute, and would make a stylish addition to any room.
This too has a very inviting texture. The Millennium large area rug is handwoven with jute and wool, features a jacquard geometric design and is a mix of natural and cream hues. The knotted tassel edge adds softness to this cotton-backed rug.
These are just some of the ways you can add cosiness to your interiors this winter and embrace the hygge lifestyle. There’s no right or wrong way to do it; whatever brings you comfort and joy this season, introduce more of it!
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