12 Fun Ways to Make Your Home Hyggelig

12 Fun Ways to bring Hygge into your Home - An Aussie's Guide to Danish Coziness

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Peter

2/11/202510 min read

12 Fun Ways to Make Your Home Hyggelig

How an Australian Found His Cozy Groove in Copenhagen

G’day, mates! I’m Peter, an Aussie who swapped the sunburnt Country for the charming, cobbled streets of Copenhagen six years ago. Back home, “hygge” might have sounded like a fancy word for a type of beer (or perhaps a new dance move at the local pub), but here in Denmark, it’s practically a way of life. I arrived thinking I’d mastered the art of being laid-back, but little did I know that true hygge was about embracing the small, warm, fuzzy moments in life, especially when your home feels as snug as a koala in a gum tree.

After a few years of fumbling my way through Danish customs (including accidentally setting off the smoke alarm with my first attempt at “koselig” candle-lighting), I decided it was time to share my top 12 fun ways to make your home hyggelig. Whether you’re an expat trying to keep your Aussie larrikin spirit alive in the land of minimalism, or a local looking for a fresh perspective, these tips are bound to add a bit of extra comfort and a lot of laughs to your everyday life.

So, grab a cuppa (or a cold one, if you’re feeling cheeky) and let’s dive into the delightful world of hygge!

1. Let There Be (Candle) Light!

If you’ve ever walked into a Danish home and been hit with the glow of dozens of candles, you know you’re in hygge territory. When I first arrived, I thought, “Crikey, are we running a power outage here?” But it turns out, candles aren’t just a way to ward off darkness, they’re the cornerstone of creating a warm, inviting atmosphere.

My Tip: Invest in an assortment of candles (and yes, you can’t have too many). Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet evening with your favourite footy game on the telly, dim lighting and a few flickering flames can transform your space. Just be careful not to set off your smoke alarm again like I did on my first night in my new flat, trust me, the neighbours weren’t too happy about my impromptu disco of flashing lights and sirens!

2. Craft a Cozy Corner

Every Aussie knows the importance of having a special spot to chill out after a long day. In Denmark, this takes the form of a dedicated “cozy corner”, a little nook designed for ultimate relaxation. I’ve turned mine into a sanctuary complete with a comfy armchair, a soft throw, and a shelf of books that look as inviting as a cold beer on a hot day.

My Tip: Find a quiet corner of your home (or even a spot by a window) and transform it into your personal retreat. Pile on the cushions, drape a knitted throw (bonus points if it’s handmade by a dear Danish friend), and let this be your go-to space for reading, napping, or just contemplating life’s mysteries, like why Vegemite isn’t as popular in Denmark as it is in Australia.

3. Get Comfy with a Blanket Binge

Back in Australia, a good arvo nap under a weighted blanket is almost sacred. In Copenhagen, the concept of “hygge” elevates this tradition to an art form. Blankets here aren’t just for warmth, they’re for creating an ambiance that shouts, “Come on in, get comfortable, and let’s not do anything too strenuous tonight!”

My Tip: Stock up on blankets in every texture and colour you can find. Layer them over your sofa or bed to create a nest-like environment. I even have a “blanket fort” corner that my friends affectionately refer to as my “hygge headquarters.” It’s perfect for movie marathons, deep chats about life, or simply contemplating how I managed to survive my first Danish winter without a proper thermal jacket.

4. Invite Your Mates Over

One thing I’ve learned is that hygge isn’t just about the physical space, it’s about the company you keep. In Denmark, there’s nothing like inviting a few close friends over for a relaxed evening, complete with homemade treats, plenty of laughter, and maybe a cheeky snap of conversation that meanders as easily as the Danish canals.

My Tip: Host regular get-togethers. Whether it’s a barbecue in the summer (yes, you can still chuck a shrimp on the barbie in Copenhagen) or a snug dinner party in the winter, the key is to keep it low-key and full of good vibes. I’ve found that sharing stories, jokes, and even a few embarrassing moments from my early days in Copenhagen (like the time I mistook a very serious Danish conversation for a banter session) really brings people closer together.

5. Embrace Nature Indoors

There’s something undeniably comforting about a bit of greenery in your home. Back home, I’d often find myself tossing a plant on the balcony, but in Copenhagen, indoor plants have become an integral part of creating that hyggelig feel. They bring life, colour, and a touch of the wild that makes you forget about the dreary Scandinavian skies (even when they’re, well… dreary).

My Tip: Add a few potted plants around your home. Not only do they improve the air quality, but they also remind you that life continues to thrive indoors, especially if you’re like me and sometimes forget to water them until they’re practically auditioning for a role in a botanical drama. Remember: even the most stubborn plant can flourish with a bit of care and a lot of positive energy.

6. Create a Sensory Symphony

Hygge isn’t just seen, it’s felt. It’s in the soft hum of your favorite vinyl record playing in the background, the scent of freshly baked bread wafting through the kitchen, or the gentle crackle of a fire (real or virtual). The Danish know how to engage all the senses to create an environment that’s downright irresistible.

My Tip: Think about what stimulates your senses and incorporate those elements into your home. Maybe it’s a playlist that takes you back to sun-drenched Aussie beaches, or the smell of eucalyptus from a diffuser that transports you straight to a forest retreat. Experiment with different textures, sounds, and smells until you’ve crafted a sensory experience that makes every day feel like a mini-vacation, even if it’s just from the chaos of daily life.

7. Declutter and Personalise

I know what you’re thinking: “How does an Aussie with a lifelong love for trinkets and souvenirs ever embrace minimalism?” Believe me, I had to learn the hard way. At first, I thought, “If it’s from my travels, it’s a piece of me!” But I soon discovered that hygge isn’t about displaying every knick-knack you’ve collected, it’s about curating a space that feels both personal and peaceful.

My Tip: Go through your stuff and only keep items that spark joy (yes, thank you, Marie Kondo). Display a few cherished memories, like a framed photo of a sandy beach or that quirky boomerang you almost threw out. The idea is to create a harmonious balance between personal mementos and open, uncluttered space where you can truly relax and breathe.

8. Turn Up the Tunes

Music is the secret ingredient in my recipe for a hyggelig home. Whether it’s the soulful strumming of an acoustic guitar or the laid-back beats of an indie playlist, the right soundtrack can transform any space into a cozy retreat. I’ve found that a well-curated playlist can be just as important as a well-stocked bar (and trust me, my bar is legendary among my mates).

My Tip: Create a playlist that evokes the feelings you want in your home. For me, it’s a mix of Danish indie, classic Aussie rock, and a sprinkle of international chill-out tunes. Let the music flow through your space, tying together every element of your décor and setting the perfect mood for an evening of relaxation, reflection, or even spontaneous karaoke (because, let’s face it, nothing says “hygge” like a bit of off-key singing among friends).

9. Celebrate the Little Things

In Australia, we’re known for our big celebrations, whether it’s a backyard barbecue or a full-blown cricket match. But in Denmark, hygge is all about celebrating the small stuff. It’s that moment when you finish a good book, the first sip of coffee in the morning, or even a perfectly toasted marshmallow over a small fire.

My Tip: Don’t wait for a special occasion to create a hyggelig moment. Celebrate everyday victories, however small. I like to think of it as my personal “mini Christmas” every day, minus the reindeer and excessive gift wrapping. Set aside a few minutes to simply appreciate what you have. Light a candle, take a deep breath, and revel in the simple joys of life.

10. Get Crafty

One of the best parts about living in Copenhagen is the emphasis on handmade, artisanal items that add character to a home. Back in Australia, I’d never considered myself much of a DIY bloke, but here I learned that getting a bit crafty can be incredibly rewarding, and fun!

My Tip: Try your hand at some DIY projects. Whether it’s creating a piece of wall art from recycled materials, knitting a scarf (even if you end up with a lopsided result that looks more “quirky” than “cool”), or even just upcycling an old piece of furniture, the act of creating something with your own two hands brings a unique warmth to your home. Plus, it gives you a great excuse to invite friends over for a craft night, complete with wine, laughter, and the occasional misadventure in glue mishaps.

11. Let Food and Drink Work Their Magic

As an Aussie, I’ve always believed that nothing brings people together quite like a good meal and a few cold ones. In Denmark, the same holds true, but with a hygge twist. It’s not about lavish feasts or endless courses, it’s about simple, hearty food that warms the soul.

My Tip: Whip up some comfort food that makes you feel all warm and fuzzy inside. I’ve learned that a steaming bowl of soup on a chilly evening, paired with a slice of freshly baked bread, can do wonders. And if you’re feeling adventurous, invite your friends over for a potluck where everyone brings a dish that represents a piece of their heritage. It’s a brilliant way to blend cultures, imagine an Aussie meat pie rubbing shoulders with a classic Danish smørrebrød, and it always leaves you with a happy tummy and an even happier heart.

12. Dance with the Seasons

Perhaps the most unique aspect of hygge is how it adapts with the seasons. In Denmark, every season has its own charm, and your home can reflect that ever-changing beauty. Whether it’s the crisp freshness of spring, the lazy warmth of summer, the rich hues of autumn, or the snug embrace of winter, each season offers a new way to be cozy.

My Tip: Adjust your décor and habits as the seasons change. In the winter, bring out those chunky knit blankets, light extra candles, and perhaps invest in a quality space heater (just don’t make it too obvious that it’s keeping you warm during those endless hours of darkness). In the summer, let natural light flood your space, open up the windows, and maybe even throw a backyard gathering with fairy lights hanging overhead. It’s all about aligning your home’s vibe with nature’s rhythms—and if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of a Danish sunset that makes you forget all about the chilly winds.

Wrapping Up My Hygge Journey

Six years ago, I arrived in Copenhagen a bit bewildered by the Danish obsession with candles, blankets, and all things “cosy.” I quickly discovered that hygge isn’t just a trend, it’s a philosophy. It’s about slowing down, enjoying the moment, and creating a space where every corner whispers comfort. As an Aussie used to the expansive, laid-back lifestyle of home, I’ve learned that there’s beauty in the details. It’s in the soft glow of candlelight, the intimate nooks you create, and the shared laughter over a home-cooked meal.

Living here has taught me that hygge is as much about the people you share your space with as it is about the space itself. It’s about mixing a little bit of Danish simplicity with an Aussie flair for fun, whether that means a spontaneous barbie in your tiny Copenhagen flat or a heartfelt chat over a cup of steaming coffee. It’s about finding balance between personal comfort and the joy of communal living.

So, if you’re looking to infuse your home with a bit of hygge magic, try out these 12 fun ways and see how they transform your space. And remember, there’s no right or wrong way to be cozy, just do what feels good. As I often say (with a tip of my hat and a grin), if it makes you happy, it’s worth a go.

To all my mates back in Australia and the wonderful people I’ve met here in Denmark: thank you for being a part of my journey. My home may be a blend of Danish minimalism and Aussie exuberance, but it’s uniquely mine—a little haven of warmth, humour, and the enduring spirit of hygge.

Cheers to cozy evenings, hearty laughs, and creating a home that feels like a warm embrace at the end of a long day. Here’s to making every moment hyggelig, one candle, one blanket, and one quirky DIY project at a time!

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m off to rearrange my living room for the hundredth time, because in the quest for perfect hygge, there’s always a new nook to create, a new playlist to spin, or perhaps just a fresh set of candles waiting to be lit. Stay cozy, friends!