Home: it’s where we go for peace and serenity. Modern life is stressful, and we sometimes forget that stress needs to be managed. We try to shrug off our daily cares, slow down, and be grateful, but our homes might not help us there. Scandinavian people have long realized that embracing an inner calm is the secret to happiness, and they apply this to their homes and daily lives. They are consistently found to be the happiest people on earth, so let’s take a look at the secrets of hygge.

You may have heard of the concept of hygge (pronounced ‘hoo-ga’) mentioned as winter comes on. Articles tout getting cozy during the long nights, delving into the silence and darkness by cuddling up under a blanket with a book, candles burning around the room, and a glass of wine sparkling in the light. You could add fuzzy socks, a purring cat, and a cheese plate - whatever makes you appreciate the moment. These how-tos only scratch the surface, though. Hygge is a way of life, not just the way Danish people enjoy winter. It encompasses interior design, entertaining, and leisure time throughout the year, indoors and out.

Decorating in the Danish hygge design style will make your home an airy, calm space that puts your family and friends at ease. It is all about minimalism, keeping clutter at bay, and using elements of nature, light, a simple color palette, and an array of textures throughout the home.

Minimalism

Danish hygge design uses a lot of white and natural wood tones to catch daylight and create a simple, breezy look that provides an easy place to relax. Rather than using harsh overhead fixtures, lighting is from strategically placed lamps, candles, fairy lights, or a crackling fire.

Functional storage is a must. Hygge frowns on clutter because more things mean more time cleaning and less time focused on family and friends, and because fewer things to look at are better for stress levels. The Scandinavian people use storage benches, ottomans, and trunks for seating and storage. Books are essential but are chosen purposefully, often arranged in artful piles near a sofa or bed. Every item in the home should be chosen with functionality and beauty in mind. Taking the time to evaluate what you need and finding the most beautiful version of that is expected. Investing more money while purchasing fewer items will ensure things last longer while bringing maximum happiness to your family.

Texture and color

Hygge design uses texture instead of a large color palette to bring coziness and warmth to the home. Wall-to-wall carpeting is not used in Scandinavian design, but rugs, whether woven, a wool runner, or faux fur, invite relaxation and let warm wood floors shine. Pillows and throws in rich textures of velvet, silk, and chenille invite people to curl up and talk. Textile art provides more texture and breaks up large expanses of wall.

While white and naturals like creams, tans, and grays are hallmarks of hygge design, pops of color are welcoming. Pale blue, pink, or sage green envoke plants and flowers but still look clean and bright. Plants are placed strategically; one large floor pot or a small houseplant in a window suits hygge style better than a cluster on a shelf.

Barn doors and hygge design

Sliding barn doors are a perfect addition to a hygge home. Functional, space-saving and naturally beautiful - everything Danish design is about. Barndoorz offers an array of designs to suit every home and style. The Two Piece barn door assembles quickly and adds a beautiful rustic touch to your home. It is made of alder wood with knots that suit the simplicity of hygge. The whitewash finish suits a neutral color palette, or you might prefer the unfinished door with a clear sealant.

The Lynnwood barn door has an elegant geometric pattern and arrives with a white or sand primer coat. This means you can customize the door to your own color scheme while also adding subtle texture. The Modern French 8 Lite barn door is a great choice for rooms you wish to separate, but don't need privacy. Glass suits hygge design very well, allowing light to come through and making smaller spaces feel generous. With a choice of clear or clouded glass, the Modern French will work in any room.

Barndoorz offers so many looks that complete your decor. For the ideal touch of hygge chic simplicity, browse the possibilities on our website, or reach out for support and advice from us at 713-400-6626. We would love to assist you in bringing peace and hygge into your home.