In the past couple of years when people have spent more time at home, the concepts of nesting, coziness, and mindfulness have become more popular. When winter comes, these seem all the more compelling. The Danes have a word for this: hygge. Let’s take a look at what it means.
What Is Hygge?
The Danish concept of hygge (pronounced “hoo-ga”), refers to finding comfort, pleasure, and warmth in simple, soothing things like drinking coffee before a warm fire, snuggling under a soft blanket, putting on soft socks, or spending time pursuing simple pleasures with friends and family. In fact, this is not just a Danish concept. Other Scandinavian cultures like Norway and Sweden also have come up with many practical ways to emotionally and physically sustain themselves through their long, cold, dark winters.
What Is a Hygge Rug?
There is no specific hygge rug, but there are plenty of different kinds of rugs that can be used to make a room feel like a warmer and cozier place to be. Rugs have that transformative character. They can make a cold, tiled room feel softer and more inviting. They can add artistic interest to any space. If you’re looking to create a hygge atmosphere in your home, here are several types of rugs that work well for this purpose:
Wool Rugs
Wool, because it’s animal fleece, is perfect for keeping out both cold and damp. It both looks and feels warm, acts as a natural insulator, and even helps to control allergies. There are so many wonderful kinds of wool rugs that you may have difficulty choosing between antique Persian rugs and wool contemporary ones. Take your time and choose well – wool rugs last a long, long time.
Shag Rugs
The long, long strands of shag rugs feel like they are hugging your feet when you walk on them barefoot or in your fleece socks. Shag rugs were a design phenomenon in the 1960s, but now they can be used in a variety of settings to create a funky, hygge mood.
High Pile
Besides shag, there are many other types of high-pile rug choices that will give you the same soft, buoyant feel when you walk or sit on them. Is it a rug or a place to take a winter nap? You decide.
Handmade Rugs
Braided rugs, hooked rugs, hand-woven rugs…all of these are fiber art that add a cozy, personal touch to a room. Hygge is all about feeling comfortable and content. Homemade art like quilts and knit throws go well with handmade rugs for a layered aesthetic. Bonus points for adding plenty of color, because winter days can be very gray.
If you want to create a hygge feel in your home, remember that hygge is not a specific style, it’s a mindset. If the rug you choose helps you to relax and lower your stress level, it’s a hygge rug.
For all your rug and carpet needs, remember to call Bond Products at 1-888-800-BOND. We can help you find what you need to bind, serge, or replace your worn out carpet bindings and fringes.
