A calming bedroom decorated in whites and greens

8 Steps to Achieving the Hygge Interior Trend

Add a sense of cosy comfort to your interiors by tapping into the ever-popular hygge trend.

 

Over the past few years, the term hygge has seen an explosion in the interior design world, with more and more people asking how to incorporate the ethos into their home. Hygge is all about cosiness and comfort, so why wouldn’t you want to incorporate this into your interiors?

Those Nordic vibes are as sought-after now as when the trend first grew in popularity - follow our simple steps to create the perfect space where you can relax and unwind.

Discover our guide to every interior design style.

 

What is Hygge in Interior Design?

Two pendant lights hanging over a dining table

Sleek Tinted Glass Schoolhouse Pendant - 10 Inch - Smoke Grey, by Industville (Image supplied by @henrickhouse)

 

Pronounced ‘hoo-ga’, hygge is a Danish concept that revolves around creating cosy moments of comfort and appreciation in everyday life.

Denmark is named as one of the happiest countries in the world - instead of being saddened by their harsh winters, many Danish people embrace the indoors by cosying up their home interiors. It all comes down to creating a warm and welcoming space where you can feel restful and at peace.

How To Achieve The Hygge Interior Trend in Your Home

When creating a sense of hygge in your interiors, the details will often be down to you as it will rely on what you find comforting and what kind of design will bring you joy.

However, for many, embracing hygge in the home will generally involve lots of soft textures, warm lighting and natural materials - think industrial lights, layers of blankets and pillows and plenty of plants, all complemented by a cosy neutral colour palette.

Follow our simple steps to achieve that hygge feeling in no time:

  • Add texture
  • Embrace greenery
  • Think small
  • Focus on natural materials
  • Cosy up your bathroom
  • Build a snug area
  • Incorporate artwork
  • Take hygge outside


1. Add Texture

A blue bedroom with natural materials

Swan Neck Glass Funnel Wall Light - 7 Inch - Brass, by Industville (Image supplied by @emmaclanfieldinteriors)

 

Different textures are essential to any interior design. They create eye-catching layers that give visual interest and depth to a space - not to mention a sense of comfort!

When thinking about creating a warm, cosy space, the first thing that springs to mind is soft, plush textures, like those that can be found on fur rugs, chunky knitted throws and woven mats or baskets.

One of the easiest ways to combine different textures is to incorporate raw materials into your home, letting their unique character shine through. Wooden floorboards, exposed bricks and warm metal lights contrast beautifully against softer fabrics.

2. Embrace Greenery

A simple kitchen decorated with plants

Old Factory Pendant - 12 Inch - Brass, by Industville (Image supplied by @lovedbyesther)

 

Incorporating houseplants into your home décor can do wonders for the general atmosphere of your space. It is usually better to go for real plants, but if that’s not possible, artificial plants can also bring an element of freshness to a room.

The aesthetic value of plants cannot be overstated - greenery of all kinds helps to cultivate calming, visually pleasing vibes. Even just looking at nature can have a significant impact on our mood and mental wellbeing. So, decorating with plants not only boosts the visual appeal of your room; it also contributes to better health.

3. Think Small

A kitchen with pink tiles and cage wire lights

Brooklyn Wire Cage Pendant - 5 Inch - Pewter - Cylinder, by Industville (Images supplied by @rebekahcolquhoun)

 

There are certain trends that benefit from making grand, stylish statements, but hygge is not one of them. You don’t need to go overboard with your design; in fact, incorporating only your favourite pieces is often the way to go with hygge-inspired interiors.


A couple of candles on the mantelpiece, some meaningful wall art and a selection of sleek lights are some of the simplest ways to create a cosy and comfortable interior that uplifts your mood instantly.

The hygge trend isn’t one size fits all; rather, it is about creating an interior that is unique and inspiring to you. There is no need to incorporate every interior aspect that relates to hygge - instead, focus on creating a welcoming, simple and clean home that’s free of clutter and full of comfort.

4. Focus on Natural Materials

A rustic dining table next to an exposed brick wall

Brooklyn Glass Dome Wall Light - 8 Inch, by Industville (Image supplied by @buildinginthebubble)

 

Danish homes are full of natural materials that reflect the outdoors; exposed brick walls, uncovered wooden floorboards and stacked layers of chopped logs ready to throw into an open fire are all staples of the look.


Just like combining textures, a good way to tap into the hygge trend is by mixing and matching different natural products together to create a room full of character that is unique to you.

All of our products here at Industville are made from natural materials and pair incredibly well with raw, rustic textures.

5. Cosy Up Your Bathroom

A characterful bathroom with round mirror and plant details

Sleek Edison Wall Light - Brass, by Industville (Image supplied by Cathedral_Interiors)

 

As a room that invites you to relax, reflect and rejuvenate, your bathroom is a prime spot for turning into a hygge haven.

Lighting is a key aspect when it comes to bathroom interiors - you don’t want harsh, bright lights but rather ambient and elegant lighting that helps you unwind. As the hygge trend is also concerned with creating clean and clutter-free spaces, strategic bathroom storage is a must.

For some storage solution ideas, check out our guide on small bathroom ideas to increase space.

6. Build a Snug Area

An L-shaped sofa complements by a stool and floor cushion

Sleek Edison Wall Light - Brass, by Industville (Image supplied @sailorandscout)

 

It can be hard to switch off at the end of a long day, so building a snug and cosy area in your home is a great way to help you shut off and completely relax. The Danish call these little snug areas that are dedicated to hunkering down and getting cosy ‘hyggerkrogs’.

Find a quiet spot or corner in your home and include plenty of layers and textures in the form of pillows, plants and blankets, along with some warm industrial lights.

If your home doesn’t have a secret corner for you to cosy up, incorporate hygge accessories like fluffy pillows, comfy throws and candles into your bedroom or lounge. Integrate dimmable glass wall lights to brighten up the room while also creating a tranquil atmosphere.

7. Incorporate Artwork

White marble counters in a modern farmhouse kitchen

Brooklyn Glass Dome Wall Light - 8 Inch, by Industville (Image supplied by @sw20_nest)

 

Art brings character and depth to a space. Invest in a couple of pieces that are personal to you to bring meaning and charm to your interiors.

Remember, less is more. So, for hygge interiors, focus on subtler pieces that tie into your overall design themes rather than going for an eclectic gallery wall. Artwork with natural designs like floral prints or abstract landscapes make wonderful choices.

8. Take Hygge Outside

An outdoor space with plants and chairs

Bulkhead Outdoor & Bathroom Oval Light - 6 Inch - Black, by Industville (Image supplied by @upstyleyourhome)

The popular trend isn’t just about bedding down for winter - it’s a lovely trend to embrace all year round, encouraging you to enjoy every aspect of your home, even your outdoor spaces.

Hygge helps us connect with nature, as evidenced by the central themes of incorporating plants and natural materials in the home, so carefully designing your outside areas should also be embraced.

If you’re lucky enough to have substantial outdoor space, take the hygge energy outside by adding a fire pit, hammocks and a well-lit dining area to your garden. A dedicated outdoor space where you can relax will help you make the most of the natural world right on your doorstep.

Hygge will mean something different to everyone, but hopefully, our top tips have given you a place to start! There are so many ways to interpret comfort, cosiness and relaxation, so don’t be afraid to get creative with your interiors.

For further inspiration and a look at the latest interior design trends, take a look at our Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook pages.

Header Image Credit: @houseninedesign