Hygge Inspired Spaces: Cozy For All Seasons

While you might think of hygge as a winter design trend given its Scandinavian roots, it’s so much more! Hygge isn’t just about design: it’s a lifestyle. Centered on creating an atmosphere of coziness that encourages feelings of contentment and well-being, this way of life is perfect for achieving healthy living in your home year round!

What is Hygge?

Design by REBECCA HAY Photography by MIKE CHAJECKI

Hygge is a Danish concept rooted in the small pleasures of happy living. The sentiment of this word is key to Scandinavian culture, so whether you're talking about the Norwegian word koselig, the Swedish word mysa, or the Danish word hygge, it all translates to roughly the same thing: cozy contentment. Used to encompass a range of things whether it's quality time with loved ones, enjoying a cup of hot chocolate, or focusing on your well being, the word hygge encourages living in the present moment and focusing on comfort and togetherness. It's this element of hygge that indicates why Danish society is happier than other countries, according to the Happiness Research Institute.

Delve into Danish culture with our six hygge-inspired tips and gather inspiration for your home this season.

Creating a Warm Atmosphere with Conversational Seating

Design by REBECCA HAY Photography by STEPHANI BUCHMAN

Creating space for conversation is essential to the hygge lifestyle. Whether you spend most of your time in the living room or the kitchen, design a place that encourages conversational flow, either by using grounding elements like a coffee table or more permanent fixtures like a built-in breakfast nook. Arrange seating in a circle so that everyone can see each other, as this gives people the opportunity to make eye contact and engage in meaningful dialogue.

Clean Cooking and Comfort Food

Design by LISA KOOISTRA Photography by MIKE CHAJECKI

It’s no secret that the way we eat influences our health. Intentional eating is a hygge practice that includes cooking with fresh produce and clean ingredients to enhance well-being. Make your kitchen a space where you want to spend time cooking through custom designs, like a beautifully detailed built-in oven hood with a custom pot filler or a double sink installed in your island counter to make washing dishes and chatting with family easier. Remember: Comfort food is just as important as a healthy diet! So don't be afraid to cook dishes that bring you nostalgia and joy.

Living in the Present Moment with Cozy Nooks

Design by LISA KOOISTRA Photography by MIKE CHAJECKI

Make space for personal hobbies and cozy activities with nooks catered to your habits. Perhaps this means installing a book nook in the kitchen where you can journal in the morning while waiting for your coffee to brew or turning the closet under the stairs into a little paint studio. Transform your passion into pleasure this year and finish that studio in the basement or buy the foosball table you’ve had your eye on.

Incorporating Self-Care Spaces

Design by MICHELLE BERWICK  Photography by MIKE CHAJECKI

While much of the hygge lifestyle encourages finding quality time with others, it’s just as important to strike a balance between socializing and time alone. Don’t forget to make space to focus on self-care, whether it be with an infrared sauna in the master bath, a deep soaking tub ensuite off the bedroom, or a plant corner in the kitchen.

Using Layered Pieces

Design by HIBOU DESIGN + CO  Photography by MIKE CHAJECKI

Hygge is all about creating the ambiance that works for you. Layers through sound, lighting, and materials to form custom-made spaces that are unique to your needs. Sink into soft blankets and throws in the living room, or add an area rug under your bed, and soft lighting near your nightstand.

A Bedroom Built for Rest and Relaxation

Design by LAURA HAY  Photography by STEPHANI BUCHMAN

You know what they say. . . never underestimate the value of a good night’s sleep. Studies show that adults should get seven or more hours of sleep every night —that means a lot of time spent in your bedroom! One way to ensure you’re well rested is to make your bedroom a space of comfort. Unwind by investing in a quality mattress, good pillows, and soft carpet or area rugs.

Looking for more cozy home inspiration this season? Check out our design blog and read the latest issue of our Beautiful Design Made Simple magazine to discover expert tips and design advice. Shop for warm wood floors and soft carpets to compliment your hygge designs at our Carpet One Floor & Home catalog.