At Ashley, we’re always excited to bring you the latest trends in home decor and design. One trend that we absolutely adore is the Scandinavian art of hygge. In the fast-paced world we live in, finding tranquility and comfort at home is essential.
What is Hygge & Why You Need this Scandinavian Lifestyle
That's where the Scandinavian concept of "hygge" comes into play. Hygge (pronounced "hoo-gah") is a Danish term that encompasses the idea of creating a warm and cozy atmosphere that promotes well-being and contentment. In this blog post, we'll explore the principles of hygge and share some tips on how you can easily incorporate it into your home.
What are the Principles of Hygge?
Comfort and Coziness
At its core, hygge is all about creating an environment that promotes comfort and coziness. Think soft textures, warm colours, and plush furnishings. In a hygge-inspired space, you should feel instantly at ease and relaxed.
Simplify and Declutter
Hygge encourages a clutter-free environment. To achieve this, simplify your decor and keep only the essentials. A clean and organized space helps create a sense of calm and tranquility.
Warm Lighting
The right lighting can make or break the hygge atmosphere. Soft, warm, and diffused lighting is key. Opt for candles, string lights, and table lamps to create a soothing ambiance. Dimmer switches can be a great addition to control the mood of your space.
Nature-Inspired Elements
Bring a touch of nature indoors with houseplants, wooden furniture, and natural materials. Incorporating elements from the natural world helps to create a sense of serenity and harmony.
Quality over Quantity
Hygge promotes the idea of investing in quality items rather than accumulating a lot of stuff. Choose furnishings and decor that are well-made, durable, and serve a purpose. This adds value to your home and creates a sense of lasting comfort.
How Do I Incorporate Hygge
into My Home?
Soft Furnishings
Start by investing in comfortable and soft furnishings. Plush sofas, oversized cushions, and cozy throws are perfect for creating a hygge atmosphere. Opt for natural, earthy colours such as warm greys, soft browns, and muted blues to maintain a soothing palette.
Create Cozy Nooks
Design your space to include cozy nooks or reading corners. Add a comfortable armchair, a side table, and good lighting to create a relaxing spot where you can unwind with a book or a warm cup of tea.
Light It Up
As mentioned earlier, lighting plays a crucial role in achieving hygge. Replace harsh overhead lighting with softer, warm-toned lighting options. Candles, fairy lights, and lanterns can add a magical touch.
Textures and Layers
Incorporate various textures into your decor. Soft rugs, textured wall art, and a mix of materials like wool, cotton, and wood will add depth and coziness to your home. Layering different textures creates visual interest and tactile comfort.
Minimalist Decor
Hygge doesn't mean overdecorating your space. Keep your decor simple and minimal, allowing room for the beauty of simplicity to shine through. A few well-chosen pieces can have a more profound impact than an abundance of items.
Warm Beverages and Treats
To truly embrace hygge, have your favourite warm beverages on hand. Set up a coffee or tea station with your favourite mugs and enjoy a hot drink while you relax in your cozy space. Baking some treats or having a box of chocolates nearby can also add to the warmth and comfort.
Scandinavian hygge is not just a design trend; it's a lifestyle that promotes happiness and well-being. By embracing the principles of soft colours, cozy textiles, warm lighting, and natural elements, you can transform your home into a serene space where you can truly relax.
Ashley has a wide range of furniture and decor options that are perfectly suited for achieving the hygge look and feel. Visit our stores or browse our website to explore our selection and find the pieces that will help you create your own hygge-inspired haven. Your home should be a place where you can find comfort, peace, and joy, and the hygge trend is a beautiful way to make that a reality.