5 Chicago-Area Designers Get Real About Hygge

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Luxe tapped talented local designers for their thoughts on one of the season’s most popular concepts: hygge.

PHOTO BY KAREN HOOD PHOTOGRAPHY


PHOTO BY KAREN HOOD PHOTOGRAPHY

“To accomplish hygge, declutter your space and then layer in casual fabrics with different elements–such as tile, wallcoverings or rugs and organic-looking furniture or accessories–for texture. Or mix in petrified wood, branches, coral or agates. Use candles and lots of ambient lighting, and focus on deep, saturated jewel-toned paint or paper to help your visitors feel totally enveloped in the space.”

— LESLIE BOWMAN

PHOTO COURTESY SUSAN BRUNSTRUM


PHOTO COURTESY SUSAN BRUNSTRUM

“I officially heard of hygge in 2016. However, I first became familiar with the concept 20 years ago, when we had au pairs from Norway, Denmark, Finland and Sweden who lived with us when my children were little and used the term. Our au pairs likened hygge to that magical Christmas spirit when your wishes come true–but 365 days a year.”

–SUSAN BRUNSTRUM

PHOTO BY INGRID KAROLEWSKI, SPARKFACTOR


PHOTO BY INGRID KAROLEWSKI, SPARKFACTOR

“In my home, a British Colonial daybed covered in striped linen with pillows scattered across the back and a luscious throw over the arm represents hygge. It’s a favorite piece in my family. It simply says, ‘Come have a seat, rearrange the pillows, put up your feet, have a chat, read a book, snuggle with the dog or take a nap. Enjoy.’”

–ROBIN THOMAS

PHOTO COURTESY BROOKE KELLY


PHOTO COURTESY BROOKE KELLY

For local hygge shopping, Peachtree Place in Northfield is my go-to store for cashmere throws, candles and bath salts. At Material Possessions in Winnetka, I love the handcrafted tableware mugs for hot spiced cider. And at Bedside Manor, also in Winnetka, it’s all about soft down comforters, pillows and high-threadcount sheeting.

–BROOKE KELLY

PHOTO BY VIBE TRIBE CREATIVE


PHOTO BY VIBE TRIBE CREATIVE

“Hygge isn’t just a word; it’s also an attitude that embodies a cozy lifestyle. Many of the elements of hygge were already part of my typical designs, but hygge takes it a bit farther into how you experience and appreciate your surroundings. It is more than just adding a snuggly throw but rather indulging in and embracing all of your senses.”

–DONNA MONDI