How To Make Your House Feel Like Home With Hygge

I’ve been trying to write this blog on the impact of a space that feels like home for the last week but it just didn’t feel right. Lo and behold, when I got to work on Monday mom had an article on the desk waiting for me. She didn’t know what I was writing about, just thought I’d find a familiar stance on decor in The Seattle Times, but it is exactly what I needed to explain the feeling of home. It’s about the term hygge (pronounced h00gah) and it is the best decor/lifestyle trend I could hope for. Hygge is about creating a space and culture that is warm and inviting, it’s enjoying the little things and allowing yourself to be cozy. Our goal has always been to create a comfort that is specifically suited to the home we are marketing, and finding that it is not only a term, but a way of life is amazing! So here are a couple of ways to embrace hygge in your own space whether you are improving your home experience or trying to sell your house:

1. Scent: People tie the smell of baked goods and coffee to the feeling of home. It reminds us of mom, holidays, and comfy spaces to curl up in. If you are trying to sell your house I strongly suggest getting rid of the pine air fresheners and picking up a food scented candle instead. Even if you just leave the lid off of the candle it will allow the fragrance to permeate through the space and make it feel cozier. Candles are huge in Hygge! What is more inviting than the idea of candle light, a nice fire, and warm cookies?
2. Layers: Furniture gives you an  idea of how much space you actually have in a room but this is only the first step. If you want to show your house well I suggest adding layers to the space (we’re always happy to help;) ). Add a rug, a chunky knit throw, and a couple of pillows (velvet, linen, and silk fit into hygge). Even these few details will make your space feel warmer and more comfortable.
3. Details: Speaking of details… Go one step further. If you’re selling your home add wood in the fireplace, set a book open on a side table with a coffee cup (with coffee beans in it), or set a tray prepped with tea on the coffee table. Make it your own but make it look like someone just  got up from their favorite corner. It will help a buyer feel as if they are already living in the house and immediately feel at home. If you ARE living in the space and just feel like it still isn’t right this is probably where you’re going wrong. Keep in mind our vignette styling rules: Groups of 3 or 5, Stagger your items (one tall, one medium, one short), and check your spacing. Add candles, books, and picture to side tables, shelves, or mantels to make your space feel more personal and intimate.

I know hygge is going to be my new lifestyle and design obsession! Here are a few articles if you want more info!

Forbes– How to Hygge Like You Mean It

The New Yorker-The Year Of Hygge

The New York Times-Move Over Marie Kondo

TIME– The Nordic Trend that Could Help You Survive 2016

The Seattle Times– Want to Get Cozy?Decorate Your Home with ‘Hygge’