Are you feeling Hygge yet?
Jennifer Bachir CPA | June 19, 2018
Hygge (pronounced hue-guh) is a Danish word for feeling cosy, charming or special – and it’s being bandied around a lot when it comes to interior design.
According to the latest reports, the Danes are among the happiest people on earth, which is hard to understand when you realise the country is subject to freezing cold temperatures, a limited amount of daylight and paying one of the highest tax rates in the world.
Hygge may have something to do with – it's a keen appreciation of the present, of finding moments to celebrate regardless of the cold, dark sameness of winter.
Hygge is all about creating simple rituals that raise daily life to an art form – like brewing real tea with a little china cup or purchasing fresh flowers at the same time each week. It's a heartwarming way to live a life filled with love, happiness, well-being, simplicity, laughter – a cosiness for the soul.
And even though our Australian winters don’t leave us with the kind of dreaded boredom and sameness of a Northern European winter, incorporating elements of Hygge into our homes is a lovely way to wait out the colder months.
Turning your house into a sanctuary that encourages social interaction, comfort and cosiness are all vital starting points. Here are a few ways to do it:
1. Keep it simple. Hygge-style colour schemes are pure, simple and natural to evoke feelings of tranquillity. The overall aesthetic should keep to a tight colour palette that is understated, soft and subtle – think monochromatic with muted accent tones like dusty blues or pale pinks rather than bold colours.
2. Add texture. A Hygge living room should feel warm and inviting. Begin by layering lots of tactile textures and adding soft mood lighting. Introduce some chunky knit cushions, throw and wool rugs for a soft, snuggly place to land or layer up with a sheepskin or reindeer hide for an extra layer of warmth.
3. Embrace slow. A Hygge life is often centred around the table sharing good food and great company. In a Danish home, it’s not unusual for a whole day to be spent leisurely planning a meal, preparing it and then sitting down for hours to chat, giggle, drink and dine. It’s about creating a strong sense of ‘togetherness’ and sharing equally.
Want to add some Hygge to your life with a little renovation money? Let’s discuss what equity you have in your home to draw on. Call me on 0499 993210 or simply ask me a question
