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10 Ways to Create a Cozy Hygge Inspired Space

If you’ve ever dreamed of turning your home into a cozy, inviting retreat, you’ve come to the right place. Hygge (pronounced “hoo-gah”), the Danish art of creating warmth and comfort, has become a global trend for a good reason. It’s all about embracing the little things that make life feel special and your space feel like home. Whether it’s a cold winter evening or you’re just craving some extra comfort, these 10 easy ways to create a hygge-inspired space will help you transform your home into the cozy haven of your dreams.

In today’s post I’m going to show you our transformed basement and how I kept these 10 tips top of mind when creating this space! I’ll also be linking as many home decor pieces I used as possible just in case you’re looking for the same pieces I used to create cozy in your home. Let’s dig in!

1. Add a Fireplace: The Ultimate Hygge Focal Point

A fireplace is the cornerstone of any hygge-inspired home. Whether you opt for a traditional wood-burning fireplace, a gas option, or a budget-friendly electric one, the warm glow of flames instantly elevates your space’s coziness. In my recent basement renovation, I added an electric fireplace from RONA+ that not only adds ambiance but also doubles as a functional heating source during chilly months. This simple addition can make any room feel more inviting.

*Thanks to RONA+ for working with me over on Instagram and YouTube! Shop our exact fireplace here

2. Incorporate Candles for a Warm Glow

There’s something magical about candlelight. Candles create a soft, flickering glow that makes any space feel calm and serene. Place them on coffee tables, windowsills, or dining tables for instant hygge vibes. Scented candles with warm notes like vanilla, cedarwood, or cinnamon can enhance the experience even more. They’re an affordable and effective way to bring warmth into your home.

If you’re worried about an actual flame burning candle there are so many options now when it comes to battery operated candles! I have added battery operated candles all around our home and they not only give you the option for light but also flickering candlelight mimicking the real thing. Plus they come with a remote which allows you to easily turn them on and off and even set a timer!

3. Layer Textures for Extra Comfort

Hygge is all about the tactile experience, so don’t be shy about layering textures throughout your space. Think chunky knit blankets, plush pillows, faux fur throws, and area rugs. The great thing is you may already have these pieces hanging around your home!

Textured elements add depth and coziness to your home while encouraging relaxation. Stick to neutral tones for a cohesive, calming look that’s perfect for unwinding after a long day. Outside of what you would find on the couch I’ve even added curtains behind this space to our downstairs windows as well as a large area rug to define and soften the space. Our little poufs also have a lovely texture! I often love adding in other more unexpected pieces like baskets or antique furniture to bring in some interest as well.

4. Bring Nature Indoors

Connecting with nature is an essential part of hygge. Adding natural elements like houseplants, dried flowers, wooden accents, or even a stack of decorative firewood can bring life and warmth into your space (I really want to do that in this space eventually!). Fresh greenery not only looks beautiful but also has mood-boosting benefits. Try placing a vase of dried flowers from the summer season, faux everlasting florals or fresh seasonal blooms for a simple yet impactful touch.

I love to do my best to stick in the season I am in. It’s not always possible but it’s a great way to have your home shift through the year with you and to keep the space fresh depending on what’s going on outside. However this choice is totally subjective as well! If you are someone who craves the vibrance of spring, summer in the darker days of winter then just go for it! Pull things that make you smile into your space.

If you aren’t someone who loves florals or you are looking for an extra layer on top I also love bringing the outdoors in through the artwork I choose. It’s a nice way to see serine scenes that instantly calm you. I’ve gone for a few in our space from Homesense and have highlighted my favourite with this gorgeous picture light from Amazon.

5. Add Personal Touches to Tell Your Story

Your home should reflect who you are. Incorporating personal touches like family photos, cherished books, or travel souvenirs can make your space uniquely yours. For my renovation, I created a gallery wall to eventually showcase family artwork and meaningful memories. These little details bring joy and make your space feel truly special.

I also have the Honeymoon photo book I made for Scotty for Christmas taking pride of place on an art display easel. It’s a great way to have memories on display that are equally just as easy to pickup and share when company comes over. My dream is to have shelves full of family photos books. It’s so easy to let these memories get stuck in the cloud but I’ve always found real joy in being able to seem them while flipping through a hardcover book.

*I created our book through Artifact Uprising here (not sponsored but I worked with them on our beautiful wedding book and guest book!)

6. Use Warm Lighting to Set the Mood

Lighting can make or break the coziness of a room and honestly should be the top tip! Avoid harsh overhead lights and opt for warm-toned bulbs in floor lamps, table lamps, or wall sconces. You can even add fairy lights for a magical touch if that is more your vibe. My goal when designing a space is always to create soft, layered lighting that makes your home feel inviting and relaxing.

This standing lamp from IKEA had incredible reviews and I can now vouch for how amazing it is as well! It gives the space a luxe look without breaking the bank. And I have been dreaming up a space I could add these battery powered wall scones in for ages! They are also remote controlled, are fully chargeable and have many different colour and light intensity settings. I am in love with them! One of my favourite final touches!

7. Introduce Comforting Scents

Scent plays a huge role in creating a cozy atmosphere. Essential oil diffusers, simmer pots with cinnamon and cloves, or scented candles can fill your home with comforting aromas. My go-to scents for hygge include fresh-baked cookies, sandalwood, marshmallow fireside and lavender. They’re simple yet effective in creating a calming environment. (I’ve listed some of my favs under the soft lighting section!)

8. Create a Reading Nook

Every hygge home needs a quiet corner for relaxation. A cozy reading nook is the perfect way to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life. Add a comfy chair, a soft throw blanket, a side table for your tea or coffee, and a lamp with warm lighting. Even if you’re not an avid reader, this space can be used for journaling, meditating, or simply enjoying a moment of peace. Our mini in home retreat is now complete and Rosie approved!

9. Declutter Your Space for Simplicity

It’s important to remember that Hygge thrives in simplicity. Decluttering your space can instantly make it feel calmer and more inviting. Donate or store items that no longer serve a purpose, and use stylish storage baskets or shelves to keep everything organized. A tidy room creates a sense of order and peace, helping you feel more relaxed in your home.

Sometimes on shelves when you look at the top designers you really see that less is more. And there are ways to stack and lean books to create interest instead of overwhelm. We’ve stuck to more meaningful books and ones that are in our queue to flick through. (That’s what makes the above reading nook so handy!)

10. Incorporate Warm Colours

Finally, use warm and neutral colours to create a harmonious and inviting atmosphere. Soft greys, creams, muted blues or greens, and warm browns are staples of hygge decor. If you’re not ready to paint your walls, try incorporating these colours through rugs, pillows, and other decor pieces. They’ll make your space feel more cohesive and tranquil.

For our walls we decided to go with the colour Drop Cloth from Farrow and Ball. It’s the perfect soft, warm, muddy beige that shifts through the light of the day. It also feels cozy when pools of light reflect off it’s surface. However, while it is cozy it still in my opinion looks elegant and sophisticated. Scotty will eventually be moving his office down to the basement on the other side of the couch once baby arrives so we wanted the space to still feel timeless and mature yet homey.

Bringing Hygge to Life in Your Home

Creating a hygge-inspired space doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. By focusing on comfort, warmth, and the little details that you love, you can transform your home into a cozy haven. It’s also important to remember that outside of these tips hygge is best enjoyed in a small gathering whether that be a couple friends or one person who you can have a meaningful connection with.

As for your home decor, whether it’s adding a fireplace, layering textures, or creating a reading nook, or just one simple candle, each step brings you closer to a space that feels uniquely yours!

And remember you absolutely don’t need to do this all at once! It’s always lovely to take your time to live and design your space. I hope this blog was helpful! Sending you loads of love for a warm and happy place to call home,

Thanks for being here!

Amanda xo

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