Hygge, a Danish concept that embodies comfort, warmth, and cosiness, is more than just a passing trend; it’s a lifestyle that encourages embracing the simple pleasures in life. Applying the principles of Hygge to your outdoor space can transform your garden, specifically your patio furniture area, into a haven of relaxation and joy. You can create a tranquil retreat by focusing on cosy textures, soft lighting, and a welcoming atmosphere.
It is about more than just creating a cosy atmosphere though—it's a way of living that encourages comfort, connection, and simplicity. Whether enjoying a meal with loved ones or relaxing with a drink and a good book, Hygge is about creating an environment where time slows down, and you can appreciate life's simple pleasures. The Lazy Magazine team think it is the perfect inspiration for styling our outdoor spaces, especially our garden furniture.
Hygge: What is it?
According to Denmark.dk:
“Hygge is about taking time away from the daily rush to be together with people you care about—or even by yourself—to relax and enjoy life's quieter pleasures.” The word itself dates back to around 1800, but its origins can be traced even further to the Old Norse language, where it meant “protected from the outside world.”
At its core, is a feeling of cosiness, warmth, comfort, and safety—all adjectives that perfectly capture the essence of a well-designed patio seating or dining area. When we gather around our patio furniture, we want more than just a place to eat; we seek an experience that feels just as comforting as dining indoors. Our patio furniture should allow us to enjoy the best of both worlds—the tranquillity of nature and the warmth of a cosy, inviting atmosphere.
How can we apply the concept of Hygge to our garden furniture?
Our team has compiled 10 simple yet effective ways to achieve this cosy, relaxed vibe, making our outdoor spaces the perfect setting for family meals, casual drinks, or quiet moments of solitude. With a few thoughtful touches, you’ll soon find that your patio becomes the most comfortable spot in your home. Here’s how you can infuse your patio furniture with the essence of Hygge to make your outdoor moments more enjoyable.
1. Comfort: Make sure your outdoor furniture is comfortable
Comfort is the first step in creating a cosy, welcoming garden lounging or dining area. Choose a set that combines style with practicality, and add comfortable garden cushions for extra support. Our Jill paired with soft cushions and a parasol, is an ideal choice for creating a laid-back, cosy alfresco dining experience.
2. Light: Add lighting to your outdoor space
The right lighting can instantly change the mood of your outdoor space, creating a soft, inviting glow as the sun sets. Hang festoon lights, lanterns, or candles around your garden dining table to add warmth and charm. Our beautiful Olivia, paired with elegant wall lights, is a perfect example of how lighting can enhance the cosy atmosphere in your garden.
3. Warmth: Add heat for a warm atmosphere
When the evening chill sets in, nothing gives the Hygge feeling like the warmth of a fire pit or chiminea. An open fire will provide heat and create a beautiful focal point. If you love hosting garden parties or spending time outdoors, consider adding a fire pit to your space as our customer has done with our London Rose. The perfect setup for warmth and ambience for late-night conversations and relaxation.
4. Touch: Add texture to your outside space
Introduce different textures to your garden to create a sense of warmth and cosiness. Fabrics like cushions, blankets, throws, and even outdoor rugs will help to make your garden furniture feel inviting. A garden rug beneath a table, such as the one shown with our June, can add a cosy touch while tying the space together.
5. Height: Add elevation to your garden and patio
To enhance the Hygge vibe, consider incorporating elements that offer privacy and intimacy. Tall plants, a pergola, or a garden screen can help create a sense of seclusion, allowing you to enjoy your meals without feeling exposed. Our Mia paired with a timber gazebo and trellis fence panels, perfectly demonstrates how adding height can create an intimate and cosy outdoor space.
6. Sound: Add a water feature for a sense of calm
The calming sound of flowing water brings a serene and peaceful atmosphere to any outdoor space. You don’t need a large pond; even a small fountain can be enough to create a tranquil environment. This customer has paired our Mia with a stone trough-style water fountain for a soothing backdrop when they enjoy meals or drinks.
7. Natural: Add materials that enhance the rustic look and feel
Natural materials like wood, stone, and metal help bring a rustic, cosy feel to your garden. Combining these materials creates a warm, earthy ambience that’s perfect for Hygge. For example, our Frances in white on a stone patio shows how combining natural elements can enhance the comfort and style of your outdoor space.
8. Smell: Add fragrance to engage with your sense of smell
Scented plants, such as lavender, jasmine, and rosemary, not only look beautiful but also contribute to the cosy atmosphere by engaging your sense of smell. Imagine enjoying a meal surrounded by the sweet scent of blooming flowers or fresh herbs. Adding fragrant plants around your outdoor dining table will create an immersive, Hygge-inspired environment.
9. Colour: Add colour to transform your outside space
Colourful accessories can transform a neutral space into a vibrant and cosy oasis. Bright tablecloths, napkins, or tableware add personality to your garden furniture while keeping the atmosphere calm and inviting. Our Tulip is adorned with tartan throw blankets, adding just the right amount of comfort and colour without compromising the peaceful vibes.
10. Seamless: Add a smooth transition between home and garden
One of the best ways to enhance the sense of Hygge with your garden furniture is by creating a seamless transition between your indoor and outdoor spaces. Blurring the lines between the two areas makes the entire space feel unified, cosy, and connected. Whether through sliding doors, large windows, or similar design elements, a smooth flow from inside to outside invites relaxation. Our Alice in Slate Grey shows how the connection between the indoors and outdoors can create a harmonious, cosy atmosphere.
By following these 10 super simple tips, you can quickly turn your outdoor dining area into a cosy retreat that embraces the warmth and comfort of Hygge. Whether dining with family, hosting friends, or simply enjoying a peaceful moment alone, your patio furniture can help create the perfect atmosphere for comfort and relaxation. So, let’s make this summer the cosiest yet, with patio furniture that combines comfort, style, and the essence of Hygge.
If you have photos of our furniture looking Hygge and cosy in your garden, we’d love to see a few snaps for our Do Some Good charity campaign. You can tag us @LazySusanFurniture on Instagram or Facebook or email them to us at sales@lazysusanfurniture.co.uk.
