When you think of the hygge style, you think of happy moments spent by a log fire or wrapped up in a soft blanket in winter. As you’ll have gathered, the Danish hygge interior design style is all about comfort, softness, warmth and, above all, a cosy, comforting atmosphere. This style, straight out of a Pinterest photo, will have you dreaming. But what are the essential decorative touches for bringing the hygge style into your own home? Here are all our tips!
The basics of hygge in interior design
First and foremost, it’s important to understand the basics of Scandinavian interior design so you don’t end up going off in all directions and straying from the theme. So here’s everything you need to know about the essentials of hygge décor.
The place of light
In a hygge-style interior, we love having soft lighting that comforts and warms us. Too much light would spoil the cosy, comforting atmosphere we’re aiming for, so it’s best to opt for bedside lamps, floor lamps or fairy lights with warm bulbs that don’t dazzle us. The more lights you have, the more hygge the atmosphere will be, and the more successfully you’ll be able to create a cosy little corner in your living room.
Faux fur
There’s nothing softer or cosier than a rug, some cushions and a faux fur blanket on the sofa. As pleasing to the eye as they are to the touch, they bring to mind mountain chalets and those winter evenings spent by the fire, warming up and sharing quality time with the family over a cup of hot chocolate or a good book. Faux fur is ideal for creating your own little snug space – and doing so in style!
The wood-burning stove
How can you not think of a wood-burning stove when talking about hygge décor? There’s nothing more comforting and cosy than lighting a fire in the fireplace and hearing the sound of the flames and the wood crackling in the heat. As well as bringing a warm and cosy feel to the room, a wood-burning stove is also perfect for adding an extra decorative touch. Whether you opt for a more modern design or a more traditional one, it’s sure to make quite an impression in your Scandinavian-style living room.
Natural and neutral materials and colours
In a hygge-style interior, materials should be light and delicate. Wood and wool will therefore take centre stage. For an even more natural look, we recommend opting for untreated or solid wood. Light-coloured or white wood is very on-trend and is also an excellent choice for a hygge-style interior. Cane furniture, wicker baskets, cushions in geometric shapes with little pom-poms, woollen blankets and cushions, and frilly rugs are also essential for fully embracing the hygge aesthetic.
When it comes to colours, light and pastel shades such as white, off-white, grey or even pastel yellow are the best choice. These will help create an atmosphere conducive to rest and relaxation. This way, you’ll enjoy moments of pure bliss whilst taking some time for yourself. Terracotta can also be an excellent choice, as it adds warmth to the room whilst bringing that natural feel we’re looking for.
The essential elements of a hygge interior
The throw
Who doesn’t love curling up under a throw blanket whilst watching their favourite TV series or reading their favourite books in winter? A throw is an essential part of any hygge-inspired interior. It brings softness and warmth to any space. As soft as clouds, white or beige fluffy throws are perfect for draping over a Scandinavian sofa. Simply drape it loosely over the backrest and armrests.
The Shaggy Rug
Just like faux fur rugs, long-pile rugs – soft and wonderfully comfortable underfoot – are ideal for complementing and softening a hygge, Scandinavian-style interior. Their delicate, comfortable materials bring a warm and gentle feel to any space, helping you to create a cosy home. And if your rug is white, beige or grey, you simply can’t go wrong!
Candles
How can you not think of candles when you know the Danes are so fond of them? Perfect for adding the finishing touch to your hygge décor, they brighten up a room and sometimes even fill it with a lovely scent. Ideal for combining light and scent, you could choose candles with winter, nature or even Christmas scents for an even more harmonious atmosphere. Don’t overlook the colour of your candles either, and remember that Danish style favours neutral and pastel shades.
Cosy lighting (fairy lights, lighting strips, fireplace lights)
To create cosy lighting, it is essential to eliminate all direct light sources. What you want for a hygge-style décor is subtle, warm lighting. String lights hung above the fireplace or placed on a piece of furniture, yellow or white table and floor lamps, a cosy fire, candles or even candlesticks are perfect for lighting that is both sufficient and subtle. Lights that are too bright should be avoided in this type of décor.
The natural aspect (plants, wood)
Plants, plants and more plants! We love adding a touch of green to a minimalist décor. Plants bring that natural, relaxing feel that we love to see in any home. What’s more, they add a splash of colour that really lifts the overall atmosphere of the house. For an even more natural feel, do consider choosing prints featuring forest animals such as foxes or owls. The finishing touch would be to add a macramé wall hanging. This hanging will be perfect for highlighting the room’s natural feel, neutrality and character.
Choosing colours for your Scandinavian-style décor
As you’ll have realised, hygge favours light, soft colours. That’s why you should opt for white, beige or any other pastel shades for a décor that’s both on-trend and quintessentially Scandinavian. Avoid colours that are too bright, as they risk spoiling the room’s delicate, cosy feel. Similarly, steer clear of colours that are too dark, as they could make the room feel harsher. So here are a few of our ideas: an off-white wall with a beige or light grey sofa adorned with white and pale pink pom-pom cushions. A wicker or rattan armchair and pretty garlands with yellow lamps hanging above the fireplace. What do you think?
More than just a style, hygge is a genuine way of life. To incorporate this trendy décor into your home, it needs to be part of your core values. You need to enjoy relaxing by the fire and, above all, love looking after yourself on a daily basis. This easy-to-recreate style is very much on-trend and is sure to be a hit if you follow all our little tips. Remember, the room needs to feel cosy and comforting, with soft, light colours, wooden furniture and subdued lighting to create that hygge atmosphere!
