Dec 13, 2023 | Flooring America
As fall fades into our rearview and we brace ourselves for the cold winter months, it's time to make our homes cozy again. Whether you're looking to do this by breaking out the knit throws or installing warm wood flooring throughout your space, the hygge lifestyle can bring just the right amount of cozy ambiance that you're looking for this time of year. Welcome to our cozy corner of design inspiration, where, in the traditional Scandinavian way, comfort meets function!
Hygge, the Danish concept for happiness, is pronounced hue-gah, and it means enjoying life's simple pleasures. The hygge design style focuses on living a life of joy with the idea that you are in control of creating a space that brings you happiness. Through intentional interior design, you can truly live in the moment. This style is especially apparent in the winter months when your home becomes a cozy oasis from the cold.
From the moment you step through the door, your flooring sets the tone for the entire space, making it the perfect canvas for introducing the hygge philosophy. Embrace hygge through the lens of flooring, with a particular focus on neutral colors and the natural appeal of wood look flooring.
Oltre Res Tile by Daltile
Since hygge is a Scandinavian style focused on simplified happiness, you should consider this when choosing the color of your floors. It is best to avoid loud patterns, bright colors, and deep rich tones. Instead, opt for neutral tones like white oak wood flooring or plush white carpet to keep the space looking clean and simple. Lighter colors will help to maximize natural light and bring the outdoors inside, which is crucial to this northern lifestyle.
When it comes to hygge design, hardwood flooring is the most popular option. Hygge focuses on natural elements, and hardwood checks the box. Wide planks can transform your interiors, offering a sense of openness and connection to nature—a hallmark of Scandinavian design. When choosing your hardwood floors, opt for lighter-toned woods with a natural matte finish, such as walnut or oak. In addition, hardwoods that have a natural texture like knots or grain marks can also work well. Of course, you will want to make sure the grain marks aren’t too exotic or bold as that will contrast with the simple beauty of hygge design. Starting with a simple foundation gives you the freedom to add cozy factors later in the design process.
Hardwood can be expensive, but if you want the look of hardwood and don’t want to overspend, we recommend trying laminate or luxury vinyl plank floors. These types of wood-look flooring are often more affordable, involve an easier installation process, and are available in waterproof options, making them a more functional choice for your family home. Plus, thanks to advancements in flooring technology, you can't even tell the difference between authentic hardwood and luxury vinyl or laminate. Choose from various colors and styles in our Flooring America catalog to find the perfect match for your hygge-style home.
Rekindle in Terracotta by Daltile
Elevate your hygge lifestyle by seamlessly integrating tiles into your Scandinavian-inspired haven. Tiles, especially those with clean lines and highly durable nature, seamlessly align with the core principles of hygge design, contributing to a cozy and harmonious atmosphere. Installing tile in your kitchen, bathroom, or entryway comes with several benefits including:
Transform your living spaces into cozy sanctuaries by embracing the warmth and comfort that carpet brings to your hygge lifestyle. Use plush, high-pile carpets to create a luxurious feeling underfoot, especially in areas such as the bedroom or living room. The tactile pleasure of sinking your feet into the soft fibers adds an unparalleled element of coziness, fostering a sense of well-being and relaxation. Opt for carpets with subtle textures and neutral tones that seamlessly integrate into your hygge decor.
Part of what makes hygge so notable is the warm and cozy elements. So, once you have chosen and installed your ideal flooring, you will want to add some accents to keep your space feeling snuggly.
Details you might consider are:
When choosing design elements, avoid flashy, distracting pieces to stay within the calming hygge vision.
As always, finding a flooring design can be deeply personal, and we all have unique preferences. For example, some might reach for hot chocolate on a cold winter day, whereas others might go for a warm cup of tea. Both beverages accomplish joy and warmth, which are two essential factors in hygge design. The flooring and elements you choose are up to you, and if they bring you joy and warmth, you're living the hygge lifestyle.
If you still feel stuck when looking for floors that go best with your hygge vision, peruse our extensive catalog of hardwood, wood-look, and stone-look products and use our online Room Visualizer to see what styles look best in your home. Or visit your local Flooring America store to see products in person, and one of our experts will help you find the perfect floors for your home.
