Shorter days. Cooler nights.
deciding it is almost cool enough to pack away the summer cotton matelasse quilt and put the duvet on the bed for winter.
Grabbing a sweater in the morning to keep warm from the chill in the air.
Putting on the fire and lighting candles. Making a cuppa tea and enjoying a bowl of soup. Comfort food.
All of these simple enjoyments in life are encompassed in the Danish concept of HYGGE (pronounce hoo-ga) which does not have a direct translation to one word but rather a broader feeling of contentment and well being. It is an important part of Danish culture and national identity.
I first read of hygge in 2016 in the UK design mags I enjoy as it found popularity in Britain, and now hygge has crossed the pond to N.America…
Think all things cozy – curling up in comfy clothes in a window seat or big chair with a fuzzy blanket. 
Not that hygge is limited to winter – certainly it is about creating atmosphere year ’round – enjoyment of life’s little pleasures grabbed as often as possible. Appreciating time with friends – savouring good food – and good times. Campfires on the beach. Roasting marshmallows.
A Resource you may enjoy – the Little Book of Hygge by Meik Wiking of the Happiness Institute Copenhagen (2016).
Hello I am Sue Womersley – designer and owner of Decorata Design Consulting, sharing my musings on decor, travel, heritage, architecture + design.
Decorata Design 
Leave a comment