With temperatures gradually dropping and daylight hours diminishing, our time spent indoors increases.
This shift encourages many of us to seek ways to infuse our homes with warmth and comfort, transforming our spaces into cozy retreats for the season ahead.
One of the most delightful concepts that encapsulates this feeling is “Hygge” (pronounced "hoo-gah"), a Danish term that embodies coziness, contentment, and well-being. It's not just about esthetics; it's a way of life that encourages us to slow down, appreciate the little things, and find joy in simple pleasures.
Why Hygge?
Hygge is a whole lifestyle and vibe, especially during the colder months, as it creates a sense of comfort, safety and warmth. In Ontario, where winters can be long and harsh at times, a hygge environment is an easy way to lift your mood and create a comforting retreat from the chill outside. Hygge helps us cultivate mindfulness and connection with our loved ones. It reminds us to savour life’s simple joys—whether it’s a game night around the table, curling up with a book or gathering with friends around a warm meal.
It doesn’t have to be costly or labour-intensive, either. Here are five easy, DIY ways to infuse your home with hygge this fall, all while keeping your budget in check.
1. Create a cozy reading nook
Transform a corner of your living room or bedroom into an inviting reading nook. Find a comfortable chair or pile up some cushions on the floor. Add a warm throw blanket and a small side table for your cup of tea or coffee and snack. To enhance the ambience, incorporate soft lighting—consider string lights or a small lamp with a warm bulb. This nook will invite you to unwind, catch up on your reading, or simply enjoy a moment of solitude—which we could all use more of from time to time.
2. Embrace natural elements
Bring the beauty of the outdoors in. Gather some pine cones, colourful autumn leaves, or branches with berries and use them as seasonal DIY decor. You can create a simple centrepiece for your dining table or display them in jars around your home. Adding natural elements enhances the hygge atmosphere and connects you to the seasonal changes outside—not to mention, it’s free!
3. Set up a scent bar
The power of scent can dramatically sway the mood of your home. Create a scent bar using essential oils or scented candles. Opt for warm, inviting scents like cinnamon, vanilla, or pine to evoke feelings of coziness. You can even make your own potpourri by combining dried orange peels, cloves, and cinnamon sticks. Place bowls of this delightful mix in various rooms, and enjoy the inviting aromas that fill your space. Don’t be surprised if your guests start asking for your scent secrets when they visit—but we recommend gatekeeping just for now and surprising them with homemade gifts at holiday time!
4. Host a cozy get-together
Hygge is also about community and togetherness. Plan simple gatherings with friends or family—perhaps a game night, a movie marathon, or a potluck dinner. Focus on creating a relaxed atmosphere: dim the lights, light candles, and encourage everyone to bring their favourite comfort food—you could even have a theme! These gatherings don’t have to be elaborate; the beauty lies in spending casual time together, laughter, and the memories you’ll make.
5. Layer your textiles
Now let’s talk fall decor. Textiles play a major role in creating a hygge vibe. Look around your home and see where you can add layers. Drape soft blankets over armchairs and your sofa, add plush throw pillows to chairs, and consider layering rugs for added warmth. Mixing different textures—such as knit, fleece, and faux furs—creates a visually inviting space that mirrors the season. Get ready for maximum comfort and a space you’ll never want to leave.
About the Author
Alicia is a journalist and editor in digital and print media specializing in health, nutrition, fitness, and wellness. She was previously the Editorial Director of Clean Eating and Vegetarian Times. Her work has also appeared in Hone Health The Edge, Yoga Journal, Women’s Running, and Oxygen, among others. In addition to being a content creator, she's an ISSA-certified nutritionist, certified personal trainer, and fitness studio owner in Toronto. Alicia loves spreading the word about helpful, science-backed health information, and she can be contacted via her website at aliciamtyler.com.
