Hygge, But Make it South African

It's time to get cosy, Cape Town! Let's take a little inspiration from our friends in Denmark, as we settle in for a chilly winter. The Danish concept of "Hygge" has gained global popularity in recent years. Hygge emphasises creating a cosy, comfortable, and content atmosphere. As the winter chill sets in across South Africa, it's the perfect time to welcome the principles of hygge into your home and make it your own. 

The Hygge Hype

Hygge originates from the Norwegian word "hugga," which means "comfort" or "console." Hygge embodies a state of mind that focuses on savouring the simple pleasures in life. That'll be a warm cup of tea by the fireplace, or gathering your family around the dinner table for a hearty meal. The Danes, renowned as one of the happiest people in the world, have long embraced hygge as a way of life. 

Bring Hygge Into Your Home

Of course, the Danish climate is different to Cape Town, where our winters would be considered far more mild. That is cold comfort when we're confronted with endless rain and non-stop gusts of wind. Let's bring Hygge into your home this winter by adapting it for the Capetonian lifestyle, while we dig out the K-Way jackets and jerseys. 

Staying Home With Hygge

The practice of Hygge centres primarily on your home, so adapting key principles thereof can stretch from your home's composition to your activity list. If you're redesigning during this season, consider incorporating large windows that give you incredible views over your property and garden. This Hygge principle focuses on the complex and important relationship between humans and nature and will work so well for summer, too. If you're switching up your decor and furnishings, use natural materials to bring a quaint touch into your home. Natural materials like wood, leather, and wool help to create a cosy ambience. 

Stick To Sustainable 

Hygge centres on mindful living and finding joy in the simple things. Extending into your decor and furnishings, see if you can find salvaged materials to use in your home design. The use of sustainable materials and resources further embeds a unique angle into your decor, while keeping eco-friendliness in mind.

Curate Your Space

Hygge is not just about the physical space, but also the emotional connection to it.  Incorporate personal objects, artwork, and furnishings that hold special meaning for you and your family, imbuing a sense of warmth and belonging. The more you're able to blend sentimentality and sustainability, the cosier your home will be. 

Choose Your Fun

Just because it's cold outside doesn't mean the fun has to hide too. Invite your friends over for a fun games night, or set up for a family movie night. Curl up with a hot chocolate, warm blankets, and a classic movie to relax and socialise. If you are feeling for a night by the fire, opt for a fabulous braai or gathering around your firepit. Don't forget your gloves and tongs! 

Bring Hygge into your home this winter, and keep warm, Cape Town! If you're looking for a cosy home to settle into that speaks to your soul, our team at Knight Frank to help you find your next home.