6 Ideas to Bring Coziness Home Immediately

According to Danish writer Helen Russell, hygge means «sitting at home in a cozy atmosphere, by candlelight». With such an attitude, everyone can add some hygge to their home and immerse themselves in this magical Scandinavian philosophy. We share ideas that will inspire you to refresh your space.

Eco-friendly materials — what you need

One of the core ideas of hygge is unity with nature. Therefore, for Scandinavians, it's important to create an interior where they always feel comfortable.

We know that a person's well-being and even emotional state depend on the materials surrounding them. It's better to think about material choices during the renovation stage.

Finish materials that are safe for health:

• for ceilings — water-dispersible paint;
• for walls — paper, textile and plant-based wallpapers, gypsum 3D panels or water-dispersible paint;
• for floors — natural parquet or parquet boards, ceramic tiles and laminate with E1 and E0 labeling.

If the renovation is already done and you can't choose new finishing materials, surround yourself with furniture and decor made of natural wood, cork, and recycled glass.

Also, don't forget about textures — they make an interior cozy. A dining table made of warm-textured wood or a chunky knit throw, soft and pleasant to touch.

Create the atmosphere of a country house

According to Scandinavians, the perfect evening looks like this: you're sitting in a cozy armchair by the fireplace with a cup of hot tea and your favorite book. Of course, not everyone can afford a real wood-burning fireplace, but designers have long come up with alternatives.

You have two options: install a fake fireplace with candles or an electric one that mimics the flame. The latter option looks more realistic and is safe: you don't have to worry that someone might get burned or accidentally drop a candle on the floor (e.g., a curious cat named Vasily).

Modern electric fireplaces are completely safe. For example, Electrolux fireplaces are protected against overheating and made from tempered, impact-resistant glass. They can be mounted on walls or enclosed in a portal. Models in modern style are suitable for Scandinavian interiors. You can view the full range here.

More Light!

Scandinavians try to let in more natural light into their homes, which is why they often don't use curtains. However, if your windows face a neighboring house, it's better not to give up on textiles.

Plan as many artificial lighting scenarios as possible. Pendant lights, floor lamps, table lamps and standing lamps add warmth to a space. For maximum comfort, you can buy «smart» bulbs that allow you to adjust color, brightness and warmth. Then in the evening, you can read a book with dimmed light without disturbing family members who are resting.

And of course, don't forget about candles — with them any space becomes «warmer» and cozier. Here's what Helen Russell says in her book:

You can always perk up with friends, family, candles and cupcakes.

And green plants

We return once again to the idea of unity with nature. Even in a small apartment, you can find space for green plants.

Floors and windowsills are standard surfaces for a mini-garden at home. Western designers suggest using walls, open shelves and bookcases. Let trailing plants grow down from the window (by the way, a great alternative to curtains) or decorative mesh. Place them in various decor elements: baskets and storage pockets.

Every item should have its own story

For Scandinavians, it's not so much the item itself but its history that matters. That's why they love antique shops and flea markets. So if you have an old armchair on your balcony that was passed down from your grandmother, don't rush to throw it away.

People buy too many items they rarely use. An armchair can be reupholstered, a table restored, and old photos framed and hung on the wall instead of posters.

Follow the example of Danes: they have long since moved towards mindful consumption. Here's what Helen Russell says in her book:

At some point, you begin to realize simple life math: less new shiny things = less recycling = a happy life.

Focus on textiles

Hygge implies that every happy person should have their own cozy nook with a pile of throws and pillows. This is where you can read books, drink hot chocolate and hide from the cold and bad mood.

It's hard to argue that an interior becomes much softer and cozier when decorative pillows in various colors and warm, soft rugs appear on the sofa or bed.