Simple Ways to Create a Cosy Hygge Home this Autumn

As the nights grow longer and a chill settles in the air, autumn brings the perfect opportunity to create a warm, comforting atmosphere at home. In recent years, the Danish concept of hygge (pronounced “hoo-gah”) has become a popular approach to cosy living, particularly in the colder months. Hygge is all about cultivating warmth, contentment, and a sense of well-being by embracing simple pleasures and creating spaces that invite relaxation and togetherness.

In our home, my husband Steve and I are always looking for ways to make autumn evenings more inviting, especially with our toddler daughter’s boundless energy! Here are some simple, family-friendly ideas to bring a touch of hygge into your home this autumn, creating a welcoming sanctuary for everyone to enjoy.

1. Create Warm and Inviting Lighting

Lighting plays a significant role in setting a hygge atmosphere. The harshness of bright overhead lights can disrupt the cosy vibe, so autumn is the ideal time to replace these with soft, warm lights. In Danish homes, candles are a staple of hygge, casting a gentle, flickering light that brings warmth and calm.

• Candles: Try placing candles around the living room or in the dining area, where the whole family can enjoy their glow during meals. Just remember to keep them out of reach of curious little hands – we place ours on higher surfaces when our daughter is around.
• Fairy Lights and Lamps: String fairy lights along bookshelves or around windows for a magical, subtle light source. You could also invest in a few soft-toned lamps or Himalayan salt lamps, which give off a warm glow that’s perfect for autumn evenings.
• Dimmer Switches: If you’re able, installing dimmer switches allows you to control lighting levels throughout the home, making it easier to create that hygge atmosphere at any time of day.

2. Cosy Up with Soft Textiles

Hygge is all about physical comfort, and nothing says “cosy” like blankets, cushions, and throws. Autumn is the time to bring out these softer, heavier fabrics to add warmth and depth to your home. Choose rich textures and warm tones to create a visually inviting space.

• Blankets and Throws: We keep a basket of blankets in our living room, so they’re easy to grab when we’re curling up on the sofa. Our toddler loves snuggling into them, and it’s such a simple way to make evenings more comfortable.
• Cushions: Pile up cushions in different textures and sizes on sofas or chairs, creating a soft, inviting spot to relax. Faux fur, wool, and chunky knits all contribute to that hygge feel.
• Rugs: Rugs instantly add warmth and make any space feel more grounded. Layering smaller rugs over larger ones creates a luxurious feel, and it’s perfect for keeping little feet warm on colder days.

3. Bring Nature Indoors

Embracing nature is an essential aspect of hygge, so bringing elements of the outdoors inside can help connect your home to the changing season. You can do this through simple decorations, plants, and even a bit of autumnal foraging.

• Autumnal Décor: Collect some pine cones, acorns, and colourful autumn leaves, and arrange them in a bowl or as a centrepiece for your dining table. Our daughter enjoys collecting leaves and twigs on family walks, and it’s lovely to use her finds to decorate our home.
• Houseplants: Plants add life to any room and can make a space feel more serene. Try adding a few low-maintenance houseplants in areas where you spend the most time. The greenery provides a natural contrast to the earthy tones of autumn.
• Seasonal Scents: Scents are a subtle but powerful way to create a cosy atmosphere. Use candles, essential oil diffusers, or wax melts in seasonal scents like cinnamon, vanilla, or pine to make your home smell warm and inviting.

4. Create a Cosy Family Reading Nook

A quiet corner with a comfortable chair, soft lighting, and a stack of good books is quintessentially hygge. Creating a reading nook encourages everyone in the family to take a moment to unwind and enjoy a story. This spot is particularly loved in our home – our daughter enjoys snuggling up with her books, and it’s a calming way for Steve and me to share some quiet time with her.

• Comfortable Seating: Choose a cosy chair or pile up some cushions and blankets in a corner. Bean bags are perfect for toddlers, as they’re soft and easy to sink into.
• Bookshelves and Book Baskets: Keep books accessible with a small bookshelf or basket next to the reading area. Include a mix of picture books for kids and novels for adults, so everyone has something to enjoy.
• Snacks and Hot Drinks: To make reading time even more enjoyable, set up a tray with a thermos of tea, hot chocolate, or spiced cider. A few snacks like biscuits or fruit can turn the reading nook into a favourite autumn treat.

5. Enjoy Comforting, Home-Cooked Meals Together

Nothing embodies the spirit of hygge quite like a warm, home-cooked meal shared with loved ones. Autumn is ideal for hearty, comforting dishes that bring everyone to the table. Slow-cooked stews, soups, and casseroles are great options, as they fill the house with delicious aromas throughout the day.

• Soup Night: In our family, we have a weekly soup night, where we make a big pot of veggie soup or stew with crusty bread on the side. Our daughter loves dipping her bread in, and it’s a simple, nourishing meal that feels special when shared together.
• Bake Together: If you enjoy baking, autumn is the perfect time to make pies, crumbles, or cinnamon rolls. Get the family involved in the baking process – even toddlers can help by stirring ingredients or cutting out cookie shapes.
• Dining by Candlelight: For a special touch, try having dinner by candlelight once a week. The soft lighting creates a warm and intimate atmosphere, making even simple meals feel cosy and relaxing.

6. Embrace Slow Evenings and Unplug

Hygge is about slowing down, and autumn evenings provide the perfect chance to unwind, whether it’s with a board game, a film, or a quiet moment. Disconnecting from screens, even just for an hour, helps everyone feel more present.

• Board Games and Puzzles: Keep a few family-friendly board games or puzzles on hand for evenings when you want to spend time together without screens. It’s a great way to relax and laugh together as a family.
• Crafting: Autumn crafts are a lovely way to engage in slow, mindful activities. Try leaf pressing, painting pine cones, or making paper pumpkins with your toddler. Crafting together is a great way to create seasonal decorations while spending quality time as a family.
• Digital Detox: Consider having a “no-screen” evening once a week. Instead, focus on simple activities like reading, playing music, or chatting over a hot drink. It’s a peaceful way to reconnect and fully embrace the hygge atmosphere.

Conclusion

Embracing hygge is all about creating a warm, welcoming space that brings comfort and joy, especially as autumn sets in. From layering cosy textiles to sharing home-cooked meals and quiet moments, these small, thoughtful touches can transform your home into a haven that nurtures everyone in the family. Steve, our toddler daughter, and I find that these practices make our home feel especially inviting, creating a perfect retreat from the cooler weather outside. So, this autumn, slow down, savour the simple pleasures, and let your home become a cosy sanctuary filled with hygge magic.