Looking to make your home happier? Take a cue from the Danes and try injecting a bit of hygge style to bring the perfect balance of comfort and warmth into your home. Hygge style promotes an atmosphere of calm and coziness, so you feel less stressed, more relaxed, and in turn – happier. Read on for 5 easy ways to channel hygge style at home and create a beautiful, comfortable home that makes you happy.

But First, What is the Definition of Hygge?

Pronounced hoo-gah, this Danish word has no direct English translation but the concept, originally created in the 18th century, is all about channeling a mood of cozy comfort and peaceful contentment at home. The word describes the warm, fuzzy feeling you get when enjoying life’s simple pleasures. Think comfy by the fire in sweatpants with a cup of hot cocoa vibes. The trend is defined by a minimalist decor style and the idea of enjoying the simple creature comforts of home that make us feel happy and content.

How to Achieve Hygge Style at Home

Winter is a great time to hunker down and practice the art of hygge, but creating warm, hygge vibes at home can be embraced year-round. Whether it’s cold outside, or you simply have nowhere else to be, focus on getting through your DIY wish list and make your home feel extra cozy. Try these 5 easy hygge decor ideas to get started!

1. Light a Fire

There’s nothing like the balmy glow of a roaring fire to instantly cozy up your space. No fireplace? No problem. Try an artificial fireplace instead, or even simpler, lighting a candle in a warm, woody scent to create cozy, hygge-like ambiance.

2. Repaint your walls a warm, neutral hue

Paint is the easiest way to update your space and during winter when hygge season is in full effect, it’s the perfect time to check that paint project off your list! To channel that true, hygge style, we suggest a warm neutral paint color like Timeless, On Point or our perfect warm white, Whipped. A versatile neutral palette will make your space feel cozy all winter, but also inviting all year round. And with subtle warm undertones, they’ll help create a warm, welcoming atmosphere that promotes relaxation.

3. Add Texture

Cozy home decor 101—layer in as much texture as you can. One of the easiest and most inexpensive hygge decorating ideas is to swap in textured throw pillows, soft, throw blankets, layered rugs and mixed materials like leather and wood to bring added warmth, texture and interest to your space. There’s nothing better than having cozy, tactile materials throughout your home that look ready for you to curl up and take a nap on.

4. Get Organized and Declutter

Hygge style embraces scandanavian simplicity so an easy way to channel the hygge spirit is to declutter your home to create a serene space that inspires calm and comfort. Get rid of things you no longer need, reorganize that junk drawer or purge your closet and drop off those extra clothes at a donation center. Having less stuff taking up both physical and mental space makes it way easier to relax. Maybe the least flashy hygge decor idea, but you’ll be surprised how happy the sight of a completely organized closet, pantry, or drawer will make you.

5. Bring the Outdoors In

There’s something about houseplants that immediately make a space feel more lived in. Not only do plants add a natural beauty that immediately helps elevate your decor, they also bring a much-needed touch of color and life to every room they’re placed in, which in turn boosts your mood. And bonus - they also help create a healthier home too.

More ways to get your hygge on

The concept of hygge goes way beyond decor ideas. Creating an ambiance that makes you feel safe, secure and comfortable can enhance your well-being in ways beyond measure. Hygge is a fundamental part of Danish culture and it's no coincidence that Denmark is consistently recognized as one of the world’s happiest countries! Here are some more ways you can practice the art of hygge in your everyday life...there’s a good chance you’ll take your happiness level up a notch!

1. Make your home a place that inspires you
2. Go screen-free and be present IRL
3. Enjoy a good book
4. Cook a delicious meal to enjoy with friends or family
5. Drink something warm and comforting - hot cocoa, a cup of coffee or tea - whatever suits you!
6. Sleep in!
7. Spend more quality time with friends and family
8. Play a fun board game
9. Listen to some calming mood music
10. Appreciate the little things