From interior design to home care and the world of fragrances: The Danish concept of hygge has been wholeheartedly embraced in nearly all areas of our lives.
In fact, such has been its popularity that it has blazed a trail for other, similar concepts. Yesterday’s hygge is tomorrow’s còsagach. A brief overview of the latest trends.
“Wellbeing” is possibly the best approximation of hygge in the original sense of the word. The term, which comes from the Norwegian, has been an integral part of Danish culture for over two centuries. Roughly ten years ago, hygge began its triumphant conquest of the world. While it is possible to translate the term – which is, strictly speaking, more a state of being, the actual definition is a lot more complex. Hygge is a cosy, convivial atmosphere where you enjoy the good things in life together with nice people. The German Zukunftsinstitut (the Institute for Future Research) describes it in its Future Report 2017 as follows: “The busier and more stressful everyday life becomes, the greater our desire for tranquillity and retreat. The hygge lifestyle is the expression of a new, social form of cosiness.” Hygge is the antithesis of the transient, urban lifestyle, but it can take place in an urban setting. No matter where it is applied, in essence it offers a new type of simplicity and security.
Hygge can pop up in all areas of our lives: it is the warm flicker of a candle and crisp snow under our feet. It is a meal with family and friends. A picnic outdoors or a beautifully decorated home. It is the smell of an apple cake or freshly-baked bread, of pungent pine resin or fresh needles from a fir tree.
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