Characterized by a minimal and clean approach, Scandinavian and Nordic design aims to combine beauty and functionality into day-to-day living. This is why it tends to focus on simple lines and light spaces, devoid of clutter, a design principle that has started to influence the modern day Filipino.

Given this trend, Team Hurray decided to collaborate with Design Story, the leading authority on curated Scandinavian & Nordic contemporary furniture, lighting, and accessories in the Philippines, on a webinar called, “Scandinavian and Nordic Design for Filipino Homes” held last May 28, 2022. We got the chance to speak to the store’s Managing Director, Dana Uy, on how to incorporate two concepts of Scandinavian and Nordic design. Namely, Hygge [hoo-gah or hue-gah] and Lagom [Lo-gawm.]

What is Hygge?

Hygge is a Danish word pertaining to a quality of "coziness and comfortable conviviality with feelings of wellness and contentment.” In the webinar, Dana relates Hygge with filling your home with things that give you joy through the use of natural textiles, wood, and lighting to create happy and comfortable spaces for people.

Tips to apply Hygge

To create your calm at home, Dana suggests the use of natural textiles on surfaces like duvets, throws, and rugs. Something that can add softness and warmth into a space are materials like wool, a material Dana points out as naturally water repellant and easy-to-maintain. You may also add in scented candles and diffusers to make your space more comfy!

A material that can also help apply Hygge is wood. In Scandinavian and Nordic countries, Oak, Pine, Burch and Ashwood are common wood materials used. While a bit costly and not widely available in the country, the use of wood in general can add warmth into your home whether as furniture or as an accent.

Dana also suggests maximizing lighting in your space, both natural and artificial. To enhance the space’s lighting, she also recommends the use of white walls, surfaces, and wood to allow light to reflect in your room.

And lastly, remember that Hygge is not just about the ambiance of furniture but creating comfortable spaces for people to gather.

What is Lagom?

Similar to Hygge, Lagom is a Swedish word that means “just the right amount.” Not too little, not too much. In the webinar, Dana relates Lagom as the principle of living a balanced, moderately paced, low-fuss life.

Tips to apply Lagom

Lagom is about simplicity and having what is necessary. To apply Lagom, you must declutter your space with the use of crates, organizers, and storage spaces. Having less clutter in the home would allow you to feel light and relaxed!

Scandinavian design is known for the use of neutrals and pastels. But that doesn’t mean you can’t add pops of color in your space! Dana suggests to find the right balance of colors to get the best of both worlds. It can be as simple as incorporating a different color of fabric or accent pieces on your furniture to set the right tone for the interior.

Speaking of furniture, Lagom is about quality over quantity. Invest in well-designed quality pieces and home finishes that would last you through multiple generations and years.

More than just Beauty and Functionality

Scandinavian and Nordic design is not just about beauty and functionality in a space. Hopefully with these tips, you get to appreciate the thoughtfulness in the way that they live. To know more about how Scandinavian and Nordic Design in the Filipino Homes, watch our #HurrayWebinar at https://youtu.be/ZKyZ6rC43tY