Pronounced "hoo-gah," this expression is an attitude towards life that emphasizes finding joy in everyday moments. It’s a Danish and Norwegian word for a mood of coziness and comfortable conviviality with feelings of wellness and contentment. Hygge is a word that can be best described as enjoying life's simple pleasures. It was created as a concept and lifestyle by the Danish in the 18th century and is now a fundamental part of their culture.
Danes have established themselves as lovers of calm and in turn, consistently top the polls as the happiest people on earth along with many other Scandinavian countries. It is frequently maintained that this is all down to hygge. The concept of hygge is one which graces every walk of Scandinavian people’s lives, and news of this lifestyle has been spreading quickly for the last few years, crossing international borders to spread warmth wherever the idea touches.
The bedroom is often not a priority when it comes to decorating as it’s the one room in the house that is totally private and not used or seen by guests. However, it has a huge impact on your wellbeing so it should be given the attention it deserves. Think about how you want to feel in your bedroom and decorate inspired by hygge.
Here are a few ways you can achieve Hygge in your bedroom:
Candles and mood lighting :
Rumoured as one of the largest consumers of candles in the world per capita, Denmark and other Scandinavian countries have embraced the power of the warming glow of candlelight. Whether scented or unscented, candlelight transforms the clean, fresh style of classic Scandinavian interiors into a flickering retreat and a simple lit candle is seen as one of the most fundamental hygge moments to achieve.
Lighting is extremely important in the bedroom and should be used wisely to create a cosy atmosphere.
Twinkly lights or fairy lights are ideal when it comes to hygge. They add another layer to your lighting scheme and give off a very soft light which is perfect for bedrooms.
Another way to add mood lighting is to add a dimmer switch to give a soft lighting which creates a sense of calm and lamps can be used for more direct light for reading.
Add textures:
When you think of cosy and warming interiors to create the perfect relaxing moment the mind instantly goes to luxuriously soft textures which add another dimension to any interior, think chunky knit cushions, faux fur throws and fluffy woollen rugs. Mixing textures and layering fabrics in the bedroom will create a feeling of comfort, warmth and relaxation. Textured accessories are a huge trend of the moment with the layering of different tactile surfaces creating a styled look in any bedroom and when combined with soft candlelight, there is no setting more hygge.
Natural fabrics:
In your bedroom the bed is usually the focal point and your bedlinen the star of the show.
Bedlinen that is natural and soft gives an instant feeling of Hygge. So make sure you buy good quality natural bedding and bedlinen. Choose your duvet cover and pillowcases in colours that are soothing and make you feel calm when you enter your bedroom.
Bamboo Sheets that are soft and comfy will radiate hygge.
Bamboo sheets and quilt covers in white or soft grey, that are super soft, and will make you feel instantly welcomed and cosy as you slip into your bed.
A Neutral Colours:
When it comes to hygge, it’s always best to opt for a neutral colour palette that isn’t too overwhelming. The colours you choose should create an atmosphere that is harmonious and peaceful. Bright colours can prevent you from relaxing, so choose neutrals that will work well with your bedlinen and accessories. Soft greys, warm whites or pale blues are some colours that will add warmth and calm to your bedroom. Bedlinen in neutral tones will add to this feeling of calm and wellbeing. Ash grey bamboo bedlinen is a colour that is the essence of Hygge.
Remember the simple things:
You don’t need to overhaul your bedroom to achieve hygge, tiny additions to your room can transform it. Lighting your favourite candle or putting your favourite photographs on the wall are instant mood lifters, so take the time to enjoy them.
A messy space will leave you feeling stressed and anxious and this is definitely not conducive to feeling relaxed and cosy. Try to keep ‘stuff’ at bay and only have things that you actually need or love in your bedroom. Any accessories should evoke soothing and happy thoughts and spark joy.
Keep clutter away from the bedroom as that pile of washing or paperwork will only leave you feeling restless. Always make your bed in the morning; a messy bed is not inviting.
Hygge is never about extravagance, indulgence yes, but extravagance no. Make your bedroom a perfect place to experience hygge. Less is more for this state of mind.
Leave a comment