Hygge - coziness as a lifestyle and decorative concept

Hygge originally comes from Danish and stands for a cozy and homely way of life. People who live according to this concept enjoy the small pleasures of everyday life and create small and idyllic oases of peace inside or outside their homes. While tranquillity means something different to everyone, "hygge" emphasizes natural coziness and encompasses all decorative objects and furniture that exude it: cosy woollen blankets, decorative mugs, long-pile rugs, quaint ceramic vases, rocking chairs, poufs, wood and other natural fabrics as well as warm candlesticks.

The main thing is cozy! The hygge living trend is defined by soft and cozy fabrics.
But the term "hygge" encompasses much more than "just" a cozy sofa and dimmable lights. For the Scandinavians, "hygge" is a way of life. It is a must to occasionally retreat into your own four walls and spend an evening on the sofa at home with a clear conscience. The aim is to leave everyday stress behind for a moment and not constantly look for the next "kick". In a way, this philosophy is the exact opposite of the hectic, fast-paced society that defines itself by its performance. In the Swedish sense, the term means something more akin to cutting wood, which in turn goes well with the cozy material.

Lagom or the right measure of happiness

Another trend that emerged after "hygge" goes by the name of "lagom". This trend is not only reflected in the concept and furnishing of Swedish furniture or Swedish houses, but is also understood as a stylish lifestyle. There is no literal translation, but "Lagom" alludes to the happy medium. This lifestyle defines a balance of all things, which can be seen, for example, in the decoration through a mixture of minimalist elements and conscious consumption.
Swedes who follow this style live a pared-down life without restricting themselves. Quality is important, as "Lagom" focuses on sustainable furnishings. The furniture in this style is often made from natural and recyclable materials such as wood, natural stone or wool. The colors are coordinated and, like everything else in Lagom, neutral and balanced. Calm earth tones or simple gray blend perfectly with this style. Similar to the "Hygge" concept, "Lagom" is directed against an excessive lifestyle characterized by abundance, which is why bright colors and cluttered rooms are taboo. Translated into psychological terms, "lagom" could be described as a healthy mediocrity between "sky high" and "sad to death".

Discover "lagom" and "hygge" on vacation

Enjoying fika in Sweden
The Swedes are among the top coffee drinkers in the world. They rank third in per capita coffee consumption. Unlike other nations, the Swedes prefer to drink their coffee together in a cozy group. The "fika" is so sacred to them that they spend an average of twelve minutes a day drinking it in the office. The term "fika" was first used in the 20th century - originally as slang by traveling merchants.
Holidaymakers can try out the traditional Swedish coffee break for themselves on a trip through the country. In the various cafés, you can experience the Swedish coziness with a good cup of coffee and a typical Swedish cinnamon bun. Most cafés can be found in the western part of Sweden. In the capital Stockholm, for example, there is the "Café Saturnus", which is known for its excellent croissants. If you want to enjoy a piece of Viennese coffee culture in Sweden, visit the "Wiener Caféet" in Stockholm and try the spicy afternoon tea. The "Flickorna Helin & Voltaire" café in Djurgården in the east of Stockholm offers a cozy atmosphere in winter that fits in perfectly with the "hygge" concept. In winter, the café promises cozy hours in front of the fireplace, while in summer you can enjoy a cup of coffee on the open terrace.

Finding the right balance in the idyllic vacation homes in Sweden
Couples, singles or families can experience the concept of "lagom" by spending their vacation in an idyllic Swedish vacation home such as those from Småland Holiday Home. You travel in the middle of Swedish nature and leave the hustle and bustle of the big cities behind you. In this way, you can focus on the essentials for a while and create your own balance towards an inner center. You can do this, for example, in the famous "Glass Kingdom" in Småland, which comprises the municipalities of Nybro, Lessebo, Emmaboda and Uppvidinge and offers a vacation home close to the rare and unique glassworks. Here, surrounded by picturesque, almost deserted forests and crystal-clear lakes, holidaymakers can leave the stresses of everyday life behind and experience the deep peace and tranquillity of Swedish nature, the setting for Astrid Lindgren's legendary children's books.

Finding the "lagom" balance in southern Sweden
Even IKEA founder Ingvar Kamprad, who grew up in the town of Älmhult in southern Sweden, appreciated the incomparable tranquillity of the Swedish countryside. At the picturesque lake called Möckeln, you can combine the "lagom" balance with sporting activities and thus achieve an inner satisfaction with your body. The beautiful lakes invite you to enjoy a range of outdoor activities. Together with your family, you can go fishing, canoeing, swimming or walking along the surrounding hiking trails. For a cultural balance, head to the tranquil town of Kalmar on Sweden's Baltic coast, where the medieval Renaissance castle hosts exhibitions and cultural concerts. If you want to connect with nature in a perfect way, travel to the sunny island of Öland. This impressive steppe landscape, far away from hectic cities, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with its magnificent orchids, has the most hours of sunshine in summer and is ideal for campers who want to find their inner center in the great outdoors.