by Paula M. Bodah
a Southwestern take on Scandinavian style
DENMARK, SO SAYS the people who study this sort of thing, is the happiest country in t he world. Perhaps it’s no coincidence that the Danes make hygge (pronounced HYOO-gah) a daily part of their lives. Hygge translates loosely to a sense of warmth, coziness and safety, and the Danes—as well as many people who live in countries with long, dark winters—incorporate it in everything from their food to their clothing and, especially, to the way they decorate their homes.
We don’t have such cold, dreary seasons in this part of the world, but that doesn’t mean our homes can’t be hygge-inspired oases of warmth and comfort. The principles of the style, in fact, dovetail beautifully with Southwest style, says Santa Fe-based interior designer Melinda Browning. Browning, who has an Icelandic background and a longtime familiarity with the hygge concept says, “It’s a feeling more than anything. It’s a sense of well-being that envelops you.” A few simple principles around lighting, texture and color can bring that aura of contentment to a southwestern-style home.
With lighting, the secret is layering. Most homes come with overhead lighting in the rooms, which, admits Browning, has its purpose if not a lot of personality. To ramp up the charm factor, add wall sconces, floor lights, table lamps and candles—“lots of candles,” Browning advises—especially in unexpected places. An old-fashioned lantern or a vintage birdcage holding a candle or even better, a set of string lights makes a subtle but playful statement.
As for texture, the more, the better. Give each sofa, chair or bed its own soft cable-knit throw. A basket of throws by the sofa will encourage friends or family to cozy in for some good conversation. Lay down a sheepskin area rug and don’t skimp on the toss pillows in nubby wool, hide, velvet or bouclé.
The earthy, neutral colors so common in Southwestern homes make a natural canvas for hygge style, but Browning says adding contrast, either with darker neutrals or a punch of saturated color, can ratchet up t he coziness. Re-stain your honey-hued oak ceiling beams or millwork in a d arker tone with a bit less yellow in it, she suggests. True hygge style evokes a feeling of connection to nature, so think about accessories in rich shades like gold, rust and deep greens that hint at the outdoors.
While some lifestyle experts insist the key to happiness is decluttering, hygge style says things we love can bring personality and warmth to our spaces. Browning likes to collect trays, which she then uses to create inviting vignettes. Layer a tiny tr ay on a larger one, then add a candle or two for instant ambiance.
If the Danes can be so happy despite those challenging Scandinavian winters, those of us in warmer climes might be wise to add a little hygge to our homes, as well.
