Before we jump in, let’s get one thing straight, it’s pronounced “hyoo-ga.”

In recent years, you’ve probably heard this buzzword once the temperature cools and the leaves start to turn. Well, what exactly is it?

Hygge, a Danish concept that has worked its way into vocabularies worldwide, is defined by Merriam-Webster as “a cozy quality that makes a person feel content and comfortable.” Imagine walking into a room and instantly feeling at ease. There are ways you can build this coziness into your kitchen remodel.

Here are 5 ways our Design team can help you find that hygge feeling in your kitchen:

1. Functionality of Layout

The first, and most impactful, step in planning your remodel is to decide on a layout. To make a space feel welcoming you must find a way to encourage people to stay a while. An island or peninsula with seating promotes gathering and invites one to grab a hot drink and take a seat. You may think your kitchen can’t accommodate an island, but don’t worry, we have found ways to incorporate islands and peninsulas into even the quirkiest of East Bay homes.

2. Color Palette

When you think of coziness, what comes to mind? Bundling up in a blanket with a cup of tea? Relaxing by a fire with a favorite book in hand? Color is a powerful tool and the palette you choose for flooring, shelving, cabinetry, paint colors, and more can encapsulate those feelings. Whether you gravitate towards deep hues or lean neutral, think warm!

3. Lighting

Task lighting to illuminate kitchen workspaces is a must, but ambient lighting is just as important if you’re aiming for a cozy kitchen. To add that warm, homey glow, think about dimmable sconces and recessed lighting. And don’t forget about the bulbs! A yellowish bulb, such as warm or soft white, will work in harmony with your color palette. Avoid bright white or bluish light as that would be like wrapping yourself in a warm blanket then standing in front of a box fan at full speed!

4. Appliances

Ever-popular stainless steel appliances look sleek, but their cool, utilitarian aesthetic can read more commercial kitchen than cozy.

Might we suggest a panel-ready refrigerator that blends in with your kitchen cabinetry? Or consider a black range with classic details, evoking the timeless feeling of a wood stove.

5. Texture

Incorporate materials with an organic form such as natural wood shelving, textured glass, and handmade tiles to add depth and dimension in the kitchen. Just like you’d wrap yourself in a scarf before stepping out on a chilly day, create warmth by adding a layer of texture throughout your kitchen. 

Kitchens are usually a hub of the home and primarily thought of as a workspace, but they can be so much more. As a place where we spend a large majority of our time, from homework to hosting, and of course, cooking, we believe it can be recast as the coziest room in your house.

Ready to say hello to hygge? Reach out to us about a complimentary kitchen consultation!