Hygge: bring some Scandinavian style into your home

The closest word we have is probably ‘cosiness’ but that is actually too simplistic.

What is Hygge?

The word ‘Hygge’ is a Danish word which has no direct translation, but in fact strives to encapsulate a variety of both tangible and intangible concepts. The closest word we have is probably ‘cosiness’ but that is actually too simplistic. ‘Hygge’ is that feeling of not only being in an environment or a surrounding that makes you feel happy, content and relaxed, but also the creation of intimacy in a scenario or setting: a sense of comradeship, conviviality, and contentment rolled into one.

It’s a hard concept to explain, but undoubtedly it’s a sensation that everyone has experienced at some point. That feeling of coming home and putting your feet up after a long day at work, or coming in after a walk in winter could both be described as ‘Hygge’, but most often the word is linked to occasions that are shared with family and friends, often also involving food and drink, and socialising for hours around the table. Christmas, for example, is ‘Hygge high season’ in Denmark, where families get together and honour this special occasion by spending time celebrating and feasting as a group. However it also a year-round thing; in summer ‘Hygge’ can refer to picnics in the park, barbeques with friends, outdoor concerts, and street festivals – anything where people come together with a sense of camaraderie and joviality.

It’s the feeling many strive to create in their homes, and the emerging trend for open plan living embraces this concept. Garden rooms and orangeries are perfect settings for occasions of Hygge; the open space creates room for family and friends to gather together comfortably, the feeling of airiness and light providing a wonderful ambience.

The Scandinavian style

The expansive use of wood in Danish architecture and furniture is key to the concept of Hygge; the handcraftsmanship of this natural product evokes a unique sense of warmth, comfort and reassurance. Westbury’s beautiful glazed extensions have always been made from stunning wooden frames, tying in with the concept of Hygge, subconsciously, even from the start.

Clearly, the key to Hygge is creating the perfect space for people to gather together and share. Westbury takes pride in designing individual glazed extensions which not only fit with the existing architecture, but also with the way in which families live. It enhances their homes to truly embrace the ‘cosiness’ that the concept of Hygge encapsulates.

If you are thinking of extending your home, and want something that little bit special, please get in touch and see how we can help add a little Scandinavian style to your home.