A beginner’s guide to hygge

2 min read

A beginner’s guide to hygge

Rooted in Norwegian tradition, hygge is more than a passing design trend. It’s a lifestyle centered around comfort, warmth and connection, like curling up with a good book by the fire, sharing a candlelit meal or simply relaxing in a room filled with soft textures and warm light. It’s about creating a personal sanctuary in all your living spaces, using furniture, decor and your own personal touches.

But what exactly is hygge and how do you apply it to your home? Let’s break it down.

What is hygge?

Pronounced “hoo-guh,” hygge revolves around everyday comfort and how to achieve it through simplicity, coziness and life’s little rituals. As a design philosophy, hygge focuses on elements like soft textures, warm lighting and airy, uncluttered spaces—all curated to calm the senses and create an inviting, tranquil environment. Between the quiet comforts and the soothing sense of order, hygge transforms your space into a sanctuary.

Elements of hygge design

When you start adding the elements of hygge to your home, you’re really creating spaces that encourage relaxation and connection. Begin with layered textures, like plush throw blankets such as the Cable Knit Throw or Scandi-inspired Curly Quad Pelt. Then, incorporate hygge-inspired decor like the elegant Ceramic Pagoda Vase, the handcrafted wood Jolene Candlestick or the serene Nature’s Simplicity Wall Art. Accents inspired by nature or fashioned from natural materials like wood or linen are key to a hygge home, bringing warmth and softness to every room. 

Lighting is another must-have element of a true hygge space. Opt for warm, diffused light from Scandi-inspired pieces like the Marta Table Lamp or Gaffel Floor Lamp, or even a cluster of glowing candles. The goal is to create a soft, calming ambiance rather than anything harsh or overpowering.

And then there’s hygge furniture, including simple, sophisticated seating like the Anada Sofa, Braxten Leather Sofa and Boyack Accent Chair, complemented by natural wood pieces like the Riviera Coffee Table, Hendrick Round End Table and Juneau Sideboard. Even just one beautifully crafted piece of furniture can anchor the entire room and instantly add a calming, hygge vibe. 

Complete your hygge home

Once you’ve layered the textures, lighting and natural materials, start thinking about how each room supports connection and relaxation. In the living room, arrange hygge furniture in a way that encourages conversation, like around a fireplace or central table. Add a plush rug, like the Sheepskin Throw, underfoot for a grounded, welcoming feel.

For your bedroom, try airy linen bedding, ambient lighting and warm wood furniture like the Bolig Bedroom Collection. A cozy corner with an accent chair, a drapey throw and a few favorite books creates a personal retreat you’ll look forward to every night.

We’re here to help

Need some help designing your hygge hideaway? Our team is here for you. Stop by your local showroom and ask a sales associate for help discovering pieces that bring a cozy sense of calm throughout your home.