Shortlisted for the Oxford Dictionaries' 'Word of the Year' in 2016, the term hygge only recently became recognisable around the world. But for Danish speakers, both the word and the concept have been around far longer. Pronounced 'hoo-guh', hygge is defined as 'a quality of cosiness and comfortable conviviality that engenders a feeling of contentment or well-being (regarded as a defining characteristic of Danish culture): In practice, it involves small pleasures, the comfort of loved ones, and ultimate forms of relaxation.
Once this Scandinavian concept went international, it became an instant hit in all forms of design - particularly in interiors. But the general tenets of hygge can apply to your garden too, along with plenty of benefits. A hygge garden is an intentional space with a focus on enjoying the nature around you and the people you share it with. It's all about being completely cosy and relaxed, and where better to do that than in the garden?
The best time for hygge is the cooler months, surrounded by crackling fires and warm blankets. As autumn sets in, consider adding a few hygge elements to your garden to create the perfect atmosphere. As hygge is centred around simplicity, there are no huge changes to be made - just small but deliberate ones that create that cosy feeling. There is no need to break the bank or begin a complicated new landscaping project - you likely already have a few of these elements set up. All you need is a few special touches to turn your home garden hygge.
ATTRACT POLLINATORS AND WELCOME BIRDS
Esta historia es de la edición March 2023 de South African Garden and Home.
Comience su prueba gratuita de Magzter GOLD de 7 días para acceder a miles de historias premium seleccionadas y a más de 9,000 revistas y periódicos.
Ya eres suscriptor ? Conectar
Esta historia es de la edición March 2023 de South African Garden and Home.
Comience su prueba gratuita de Magzter GOLD de 7 días para acceder a miles de historias premium seleccionadas y a más de 9,000 revistas y periódicos.
Ya eres suscriptor? Conectar
Winter Warmer
Properly insulated homes are the next frontier for South Africa in a world of higher energy costs and a harsher climate
Carved in MARBLE
Use marble around your home to create an instantly luxurious feel
A Lesson From The Animal Kingdom
Not all of us are graceful ballet dancers or stylish fashion followers, but we can still stake a claim to elegance
Nature's Hidden Harvest
Clutching a bovine bolete deep inside a pine forest, Ryan Enslin discovers nature's bounty as he unearths her hidden gems and edible treasures
PAPER BRIQUETTES
Fuel your winter fire with these home-made briquettes made from recycled paper that you would otherwise throw away. Each brick burns for up to 1.5 hours
WINTER DOS AND DON'TS HOUSEPLANTS
Winter houseplant care is not complicated, but there are a few essential tips to follow to keep your plants alive until spring arrives
In The Garden
July Garden To-dos
ELEGANT AGAVES
Low-maintenance and always looking their best, you can't ask for much more from these showstoppers
MIRROR UPDATE
Turn any old or plain rectangular mirror into luxe home decor with this simple and beginner-friendly DIY
LOFT LUXE
This Cape Town loft remodel, inspired by Balinese living, shows how much of an impact minimalist design can make in small spaces