It’s pronounced “hoo-gah,” by the way.
The vibe: Cold weather. A warm drink. A cozy couch. Quiet time – or quality time. That feeling of comfort and calm? That’s hygge.
What hygge means: “Hygge is a Danish word used to express a feeling of comfort, coziness and happiness enjoying the simpler things,” says Dayna Hairston, an NCIDQ certified interior designer in Cary, N.C. “It involves a conscious state of slowing down and being in the present.”
The idea goes back centuries. Donna Henes, an urban shaman who does home cleansings, says the concept comes from a 16th-century Norwegian term meaning “to comfort” or “to console.” She explains that “the warm hug of a hygge home is essential in the frozen, dark stretches of Nordic winters. And the cheerful embrace of a hygge home is equally necessary in the stressful rush and push of urban life.”
Why Hygge Is Perfect for New Homes
A newly built home offers a blank slate – ideal for creating a space that feels calm, intentional, and lived-in from day one. Hygge isn’t about buying more stuff; it’s about designing comfort into everyday living.
Hygge Design Basics (That Work Especially Well in New Construction)
“Typically, hygge homes have neutral color palettes with soft touches of color, rustic elements, layers of plush fabric and knitted textiles,” Hairston says.
| New-home features that naturally support hygge | |
|---|---|
| Open floor plans softened with area rugs and layered textiles | Fireplace options – gas or electric – for instant warmth and ambiance |
| Large energy-efficient windows that bring in natural light | Flexible spaces that easily become reading nooks or quiet retreats |
Easy Hygge Upgrades You Can Do Right Away
Making a hygge home doesn’t require a renovation.
Hairston suggests starting small:
Add a knitted or woven throw to the sofa
Use candles to create soft, warm lighting
Style woven baskets for storage – or firewood near the fireplace
These details help a brand-new home feel welcoming and relaxed almost immediately.
Lighting: The Unsung Hero of Hygge
Hygge thrives on warm, gentle light. For new homeowners, this is an easy win.
Look for or add:
Dimmer switches in living and dining areas
Warm-temperature bulbs instead of bright white
Layered lighting (table lamps, floor lamps, wall sconces)
The goal is glow – not glare.
Hygge Isn’t Just for Winter
While hygge shines in colder months, it’s a year-round mindset.
“Incorporate hygge in your home décor in spring and summer months by adding fresh flowers to your décor,” Hairston says. “Consider adding sheer curtains to bring in an abundance of natural light. Utilize natural organic elements, such as drift wood or succulents, in your home decor to bring the outside in.”
Natural textures and light help maintain that cozy-but-fresh feeling all year long.
A Simple Hygge Checklist for New Homeowners
| Use this list to make your new house feel like home faster | |
|---|---|
| Soft throws and pillows in main living spaces | Candles or flameless candles for everyday ambiance |
| Area rugs to define and warm open spaces | Personal items – photos, books, meaningful décor |
| A dedicated “slow-down” spot (reading chair, window seat, or porch) |
Why Hygge Resonates With Today’s Homebuyers
Modern life is busy. Homes are expected to do more than ever.
“Our day-to-day lives get busier and busier with each passing moment,” Hairston says. “In order to relax and recharge, we need an opportunity to slow down.”
For new homebuyers, hygge is less about decorating – and more about intentionally creating a space that supports rest, connection, and everyday happiness.
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Julie Gordey
A lifelong educator, Julie Gordey, is a retired school administrator. After years of focusing on education, this University of Texas graduate now travels and enjoys freelance writing for BDX and NewHomeSource.com.