Hygge is a Danish word (pronounced hue-gah).
We are hearing a lot about Hygge in interiors at the moment. Although there isn't a direct translation into English it's all about bringing cosiness, charm and simple pleasures into your home.
By using velvets, wools and faux fur fabric you can easily bring a cosy feel to your home.
Danish design is well known for clean lines and minimalist features but this doesn't mean their homes are cold and sterile, in fact they are just the opposite.
If you want to bring a feeling of hygge into your home it's all about creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere so that guests feel immediately at home when visiting. Christmas is the ideal time of year to start practicing this and there are some simple ways that this can be done in your home.
It is not necessary to spend huge amounts of money and time re-decorating your room from scratch as accessories play a major part in bringing a comfortable ambience into your home.
In the living room you could add some new cushions, a textured rug and some woollen or faux fur fabric throws, all of these things will bring instant cosiness to your room, add some scented candles to finish the scheme.
In the kitchen use striped fabrics in red and white to bring a Nordic feel to the room, the welcoming feel will come from the tastes and smells that are produced - freshly baked bread and coffee - all produce the nurturing feeling that is an inherent part of hygge.
In the bedroom layer up the bed with cosy blankets and faux fur fabric throws. Use a relaxed colour scheme of warm pink and dusky caramel. Use subdued lighting and send your guests to bed with a steaming hot chocolate.
When decorating your home for Christmas bring a touch of Scandi charm into it. Decorate your tree using red and white decorations, ideally wooden, these can range from fun Santas to snowflakes and snowmen. Also use lots of natural greenery such as holly and ivy, drape this foliage on bannisters or mantelpieces, add in pinecones and berries for extra colour and interest. Make sure your table is set to sparkle with white table linen, beautiful glassware, candles and a table decoration made from Christmas roses. If you are feeling crafty why not buy some Christmas fabric and make your own tablecloth and napkins.
Above all relax this Christmas and if you are relaxed then your guests will also feel relaxed and welcome in your home.