Right, let’s talk about hygge. I’m sure that by now you’ve probably seen it popping up on Pinterest boards, Insta interiors, or casually scribbled on a chalkboard in an artsy hipster café. It’s actually pronounced “hoo-gah”, it’s a Danish word that surprisingly doesn’t have a direct English translation – but the general meaning is like “cosiness with a splash of soul”. It’s all about accentuating comfort, contentment, and culturing a space that feels like home - warm, safe, and inviting.
Now, there’s really nowhere better to start your hygge journey than in your bedroom – after all it is the one place you should feel most relaxed. If your boudoir is currently feeling a bit cold and lifeless rather than a snug retreat, then don’t worry. We’ve got your back. Here’s our guide on how to transform your space into the ultimate hygge hideaway.
1. soft lighting = hygge gold
Let’s start with lighting, nothing kills a vibe quicker than one of those old school harsh overhead bulbs. Hygge is all about bringing that warm, layered lighting effect. You want that soft golden glow that makes everything look kind and inviting.
Here’s the game plan:
- Fairy lights: Who cares if these are technically for Christmas, we love them year round. Simply drape them over your headboard or curtain rails and voila.
- Table lamps: Place a couple around the room with warm-toned bulbs, super simple. If you haven’t heard of them already, and want to be a little bougie, Himalayan salt lamps look beautiful and emit a lovely amber glow.
- Candles: The more, the better, go wild. Opt for unscented if you're sensitive, or choose earthy, comforting smells like vanilla, amber, or sandalwood.
2. think textures, not trends
Hygge doesn’t care if your décor’s “on trend”. It’s about what feels good and hits you right in the feels. Layering textures is one of the easiest ways to make your room feel luxurious and inviting.
- Stick a knit throw on the end of your bed – don’t worry if it feels oversized and slightly impractical, this one's all about aesthetics.
- Mix in a variety of textures like linen sheets, faux fur cushions, wool blankets, velvet bedspreads, whatever feels good to you.
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Add a rug – even if you’ve already got carpet. It’s not about function, it’s about visually creating those layers. A soft, fluffy one underfoot when you swing your legs out of bed in the morning? Couldn’t really ask for much more.
Don’t worry too much about making everything match everything perfectly. A bit of organised chaos is the hygge vibe.
3. neutral, nature-inspired colours
Now, in terms of colours, we want to think of calm, earthy tones. Whites, creams, beiges, greys, soft browns – these all work beautifully to make a room feel more peaceful. It’s like a visual deep breath. You’re not aiming for sterile or boring – just a natural, comforting palette.
Don’t worry if you’re renting and stuck with “landlord magnolia” walls. It’s so easy to bring in colour with textiles: cushions, throws, duvet covers, or even a homemade fabric wall hanging if you’re one of those crafty diy souls.
And if you’re in need of a new bed for your hygge bedroom design, be sure to check out our collection. We’re all about the neutral colours, textured upholstery and au naturel wooden frames.
4. bring nature in
Plants are the ultimate MVP of hygge design. They quickly add life, colour, and that feeling of calm to your space. Plus, they’re good for the air and your mood (science says so).
If you’re a serial plant killer, start easy:
- Snake plants, pothos, or ZZ plants are basically unkillable.
- A small succulent on your bedside table? Cute and low effort.
- A simple bunch of eucalyptus in a vase gives a spa-like vibe and smells amazing.
If you’re super worried about keeping live plants, opt for some artificial ones. Pretty dried flowers or some good-quality faux greenery will still help to add that organic touch.
5. create a bed you never want to leave
The bed is the star of the hygge bedroom, no question. It should be an absolute haven.
- Invest in some good bedding. You don’t need to spend a fortune, but try to go for natural materials – think cotton, linen, or bamboo.
- Layer it up, go crazy with those throws and cushions. You can always fling them off in a rage at 2am if you end up getting too hot.
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Choose a duvet with the right tog for your climate. A 10.5 tog is a good all-rounder for the UK, unless you’re in a draughty old flat or suffer from extreme summer sweats. And if you appreciate being able to switch out your duvet as the season changes, our wunderflex multiway duvet can be configured for warmer and colder nights as you please.
And yes, making your bed every morning does make your room feel calmer. Sorry, but it’s true, so just do it.
6. declutter… gently
Hygge doesn’t mean minimalist, but it does mean intentional. Too much stuff lying around often results in stress. That said, don’t feel like you have to Marie Kondo your life overnight.
Do a quick little edit:
- Remove anything that doesn’t make you feel good, as well as anything that doesn’t serve a purpose.
- We know it can be hard but try to keep surfaces like your bedside table or dresser mostly clear. It’s okay to have a few little bits – a candle, a book, a cute plant, maybe a special framed photo.
Under-bed storage is your secret weapon. Hide your chaos; keep your calm.
7. make it personal
What makes you feel comforted and cosy might not be in the IKEA catalogue – and that’s fine. Hygge is all about what feels right to you. So don’t be afraid to let your individuality shine.
- Hang a couple of photos that make you smile.
- Place fairy lights around postcards from your travels.
- Keep a cute basket with your favourite books within arm’s reach of the bed.
If that old 90s boyband poster still brings you joy, whack it up – this is your safe space, it’s not a showroom or a design competition.
8. add a reading nook (even if it’s tiny)
Don’t feel you need a whole separate corner or armchair just for this. A simple pile of cushions and a soft blanket by the window will work perfectly. Create a little zone that’s inviting and encourages you to go sit relax and tuck into a good book.
Pair it with a little lamp, a side table for tea (or wine), and ta-da – instant hygge hotspot.
9. scent is the final layer
The nose is one of the primary senses and your bedroom should smell like comfort. Whether that’s freshly washed sheets, a calming pillow spray, or your favourite essential oil in a diffuser.
Some popular hygge scents:
- Lavender (serving classic sleepy vibes)
- Vanilla (warm and soothing)
- Cedarwood (earthy and grounding)
- Cinnamon or clove in winter (pure hug-in-a-mug territory)
Scented candles or wax melts are great, just try not to overdo it – subtlety is key.
final thoughts
Bringing hygge into your bedroom definitely doesn’t mean starting from scratch or spending loads of money. It’s more about prioritising mindset – asking yourself, “Does this make me feel calm, comfy, and content?”
You want to walk into your room and exhale, that feeling that you’re home. Whether you’re curling up with a cuppa, having a cheeky nap, or reading by your new fairy lights, it’s so important for your bedroom to be a soft landing at the end of the day.
So go forth, fluff those cushions, layer those throws, light that candle, and welcome hygge into your bedroom. Until next time, eve Sleep.
