Hygge (pronounced hyoo-gah) is the Danish concept of “cosiness” and “togetherness” that is integral to Danish culture. In recent years, it has been adopted by people all across the globe as not only a lifestyle but also as the basis of their home décor.
Our Canopy Group PAs and EAs all work from their home offices year-round, but at this time of year, we are particularly grateful we don’t have to commute in the cold and rain. Still, as a team that lives and works at home, we are acutely aware of the importance your home environment has not only for your productivity at work, but also for your overall mood and mental wellbeing.
The following are 5 easy and quick ways to add a little cosiness to your home and particularly your home office.
/1/ Incorporate a lot of natural elements. Wood is key (especially unfinished natural woods). We love these beautiful wooden coasters that you can use at your desk and around the house. They’re 50% function, 50% beautiful, and 100% hygge. But don’t forget to add in other elements like natural clays and fresh greenery. It’s all about bringing the nature outside into your home.
/2/ Keep your décor simple with neutral colors. Your environment should relax you, not over-excite your senses. If you can declutter your work space on a daily basis, even better. Clutter is the enemy of hygge.
/3/ Maximise natural lighting by keeping curtains open, using mirrors to reflect the light. As the days are the shortest at this time of year, it’s time to bring out the candles. Although hygge rules state that candles should be unscented, we won’t tell anyone if you opt for comforting earthy smells like pine, eucalyptus, or sweet orange. If you have extra fairy lights laying around, use them. But the most hygge thing you can do is to light a fire: a fireplace will certainly warm your home in the cold weather… but is there anything more relaxing than watching and listening to a fire on a winter’s evening?
/4/ Add cosy textures. Hygge without cushions and throws is like a birthday without cake: incomplete. We love this handmade, cream throw blanket with beautiful texture. Don’t worry about mixing and matching textures or whether you have “too many cushions” – you probably don’t! Consider getting a textured rug in your living room or office: it instantly adds warmth to your home.
/5/ Hygge isn’t just about your environment, it’s about your entire experience. That’s why hygge food is a very real concept. It’s easy at this time of year to turn to classic hygge foods and drinks like tea, hot cocoa, and hearty soups. If it makes you feel warm and fuzzy inside, it’s hygge. These vegan vanilla cinnamon rolls make for a perfect mid-morning snack at your desk on a cold winter day. Hygge is in itself a little bit about indulgence and gratitude: so be grateful that you can enjoy indulgent moments like sipping hot cocoa (with marshmallows) as you read a good book by the fire after a day’s work.
Are you a fan of the hygge lifestyle? Do you see yourself incorporating any of these tips into your home or home office? Share with us below!