Hygge in THE GARDEN

Autumn is the perfect time to embrace the Danish concept of hygge in the garden, keeping us cosy and comfortable as temperatures drop

- MADISON MOULTON

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.

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