Hygge, Danish and Norwegian word which can be described as a quality of cosiness and comfortable conviviality that engenders a feeling of contentment or well-being. In recent years it has been described as a defining characteristic of Danish culture. Here are some of our favourite pieces to help you feel the Hygge this season.
The Fluted Contrast Mugs by Royal Copenhagen | $40
The design of the Fluted Contrast mug by H.C. Gjedde is elegant and modern, created out of a deep respect for Royal Copenhagen history and traditions. They feature decorative fluting that was first introduced in 1775 and is now a Royal Copenhagen hallmark. The coloured silicone grip makes it extra comfortable to grip. Its functional design pays homage to Danish minimalism and is ideal for everyday use, or special occasions.
Honey Pot by Alessi | $132
The beautiful Honey Pot by Theo Williams is made of crystalline glass and polished stainless steel. The design was developed in the early 90s as part of the Biological Project series which explored the theme of design expression associate with intuition, in a new relationship between man and nature.
Happy Books | $22-$27
The Inform bookstore has a wide variety of books for all the readers on your list. These three titles examine the universal quest for happiness from three different perspectives: A Place of My Own: The Architecture of Daydreams by Michael Pollan, The Little Book of Lykke: The Danish Search for the World’s Happiest People by Meik Wiking, and Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life by Hector Garcia & Francesc Miralles.
Reading Glasses by Seymour + Smith | $65
Seymour + Smith, a new Vancouver-based company, offers four unisex styles of universally flattering and economical reading glasses. The frames are fashioned from cellulose — a wood by-product — and the company takes care to use minimal plastics in its packaging.
Tab Floor Light by Flos | $595
The Tab lamp, designed by Edward Barber & Jay Osgerby, is a simple folded form, creating a visually pure shade. The lamp offers direct lighting with an adjustable head making it an ideal reading companion.
Womb Chair by Knoll | From $4000
Eero Saarinen designed the groundbreaking Womb Chair at Florence Knoll’s request for “a chair that was like a basket full of pillows — something she could really curl up in.” This mid-century classic supports countless positions and offers a comforting oasis of calm — hence the name.
Wallace Sewell Blankets | $320-$867
Strongly influenced by the Bauhaus for its aesthetic and design ideology Harriet Wallace-Jones and Emma Sewell of Wallace Sewell strive to unite craft and manufacturing, embracing traditional techniques. The initial design process begins on handlooms in their London and Dorset studios. Production then takes place in a family-run mill, fusing tradition with state of the art technology. Fabric is then washed and pressed at the finishers to give the cloth a luxurious handle. Their signature pieces feature three-dimensional two-sided waffle blankets, striking pinstriped lambswool throws and patchwork cotton-chenille blankets.
This is the first installment of our Gift Guide for this season. Signup for our newsletter to receive these right in your inbox.