The latest lifestyle trend may look like a typo, but hygge (pronounced HOO-gah) is actually a good way to sell homes.
Hygge is a Danish term for coziness that’s inspiring everything from designer wallpaper to brewpub interiors. A combination of the space you are in, the people you are with and the intention to create a sanctuary, hygge is designed to give a sense of coziness and all-encompassing well-being.
Partly an antidote to the eight months of harsh gloomy weather suffered every year by the Danish, hygge could be a powerful tool for realtors to put to use during open houses in our dreary months of March and April. It’s also being described as a soothing remedy for the anxiety many people are feeling following a contentious presidential election.
How to Hygge a Home
- Go Green
Given the severity of Scandinavian winters, it’s no surprise that houseplants figure largely in to the hygge concept. The idea is to bring a bit of life indoors. Don’t overdo it though. Too many plants indoors can create a sense of clutter. Plus, with limited/low lighting most plants aren’t going to do too well. Select one houseplant that does well in low filtered light that can serve as centerpieces of each space.
- Proper Lighting
A huge aspect of hygge is proper lighting. Hygge demands several sources of low light scattered throughout a space – an alternative to high-beam overhead lighting and/or fluorescent lamps. Hygge also makes heavy use of candles. When in doubt – or during a showing – feel free to use artificial candles. It’s the lighting that matters.
- Simplicity is Key
Sometimes less is more. If you’re trying to hygge a home, this is one of those times. Danish architecture is minimalist, meaning clutter and jarring colors should be avoided. The goal is to reduce the number of objects and images clamoring for attention and focus on the things that bring a sense of warmth, joy and fulfillment. Generally these are natural elements: hardwood, plants, firelight, polished stone, etc.
A Local Example of Hygge in Washington, DC
The Danish ambassador to the U.S. described hygge as “a part of our DNA.” Realtors in Maryland, Virginia or Washington, DC that want to get an authentic dose of hygge can visit the Danish Embassy in Washington, DC, which was designed by Danish architect Vilhelm Lauritzen.
Your Title Company Should Deliver a Sense of Serenity Too!
Hygge isn’t the only thing that can deliver a sense of calmness and wellbeing – Lakeside Title Company can too!
We have extensive experience working with realtors to help them streamline purchase transactions from the initial title search to the closing and sell homes. We have developed numerous long-lasting professional relationships with realtors, lenders, and builders throughout the D.C. metro area, Maryland, Northern Virginia and southern Pennsylvania. To learn more, please visit our homepage today!
