How to Hygge Your Home Office
Working from home definitely has its perks—comfier clothes, no commute, and unlimited access to the kettle. But let’s be honest, it can also feel a bit… meh. No workplace besties, no opportunity to pop into a coffee shop on your way to work, and no scandalous gossip by the water cooler or in the break room.
When your “office” is just a few feet away from your sofa, it’s easy for the days to blur together and for it all just to feel a bit monotonous and joyless. But this is where hygge can help.
This Danish concept of cosiness, comfort, and contentment can work wonders for your home office. With a few thoughtful tweaks, you can transform your workspace into a haven that feels less like a productivity prison and more like a warm hug. Let’s do it.
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How to Hygge your Home Office
1. Light It Up, the Hygge Way
Let’s start with lighting, because nothing kills the mood faster than a harsh overhead bulb. Hygge is all about soft, warm lighting, so swap that cold glare for something more soothing.
Firstly, try to position your desk near a window if possible—natural light is actually the best for your mood and energy levels. Then, add some fairy lights or a desk lamp with a warm-toned bulb. Or try a salt lamp, which gives off a lovely glow and is supposed to help purify the air and decrease stress by giving off negative ions.
On grey days (and here in Scotland I have plenty), light a candle or two in your favourite scent to add extra cosiness.
2. Comfort Is Key
If you’re going to be sat at your desk for hours on end, you need a chair that’s up to the task. Invest in a comfy office chair or, if that’s not an option, add a plush cushion or a sheepskin throw to your seat.
Don’t stop there—think about your desk setup too. A soft wrist rest, a footstool, or even just a cosy blanket draped over your knees can make all the difference (and are more ergonomic too, hopefully meaning fewer aches and pains at the end of the day!) Comfort is the cornerstone of hygge, so don’t skimp on it.
3. Bring the Outdoors In
Hygge is deeply connected to nature, and incorporating a touch of the outdoors into your workspace can do wonders.
Add a plant or two to your desk—succulents, ivy, or even a little herb garden if you’re feeling ambitious. If plants aren’t your thing (or you always forget to water them), a vase of fresh flowers or even a bowl of pinecones can bring that natural vibe.
Open a window now and then to let in some fresh air. Bonus points if you can hear birdsong (but if you can’t then you can always get some piped in via a smart speaker).
4. Surround Yourself with Things You Love
One of the most delightful parts of hygge is its emphasis on creating spaces that feel uniquely “you.” Your workspace should be no exception. A quick disclaimer though: there’s a balance to be struck here, as you might love to be surrounded with knick-knacks, but personally I can’t work in a space that’s crammed with stuff, so for some of us this will definitely be a curated, less-is-more moment. Go with whatever you feel happy with.
Frame a favourite photo or two and place them on your desk. Keep a few items that make you happy within arm’s reach—a pretty mug for your tea, a notebook you love, or even a little trinket that makes you smile. It also helps to have things that increase your comfort levels as you work, like lip balm or hand cream.
You might also like:
100 Ideas to Add Hygge Into Your Everyday Life
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5. Create a Ritual Around Breaks
Work-from-home life often blurs the line between work and relaxation, with the result that you can so easily end up working longer hours and taking shorter breaks. Hygge can really help here, because it will make you think more about your time and how you’re going to enjoy the little moments.
So – make your breaks intentional. Brew a proper cup of tea, step away from your desk, and savour it. Take some time the night before to prep yourself a decent lunch instead of just eating toast again standing up by the kitchen counter.
Try the Scandi tradition of fika – a proper snack with coffee. Think homemade biscuits, fresh fruit, or a slice of cake you baked over the weekend.
If you can, step outside for a quick walk at lunchtime, or even just a stretch in the garden. Feeling the sun (or drizzle!) on your face is an instant pick-me-up and will make you feel brighter for the afternoon.
6. Curate Your Workday Playlist
Music is a powerful tool in setting the tone of your workspace. For a hygge vibe, skip the high-energy beats and go for something soothing.
Classical music, soft acoustic playlists, or even nature sounds can help you focus while keeping the mood calm. If you’re not a fan of music while working, consider an ambient noise app for a gentle background hum. There’s something oddly comforting about the sound of a crackling fire or gentle rain.
If you’re really having office withdrawals, check out https://imisstheoffice.eu/ where you can customise the right level of office noise and sounds to play while you work (complete with annoying colleagues!)
7. Dress for the (Home) Office
One of the joys of working from home is ditching the stiff office attire. But hygge isn’t about staying in your pyjamas all day—it’s about dressing in a way that feels cosy and put-together.
Think soft jumpers, warm socks, and comfy trousers. Keep a cardigan or shawl handy for when it gets a bit chilly. When you’re dressed comfortably, you’re more likely to feel relaxed and ready to tackle your tasks.
8. Keep Your Workspace Tidy
A cluttered desk leads to a cluttered mind, and nothing disrupts hygge faster than chaos.
Start or end each workday with a quick tidy-up. Invest in some simple storage solutions—a box for papers, a jar for pens, or a basket for miscellaneous bits and bobs. The goal isn’t perfection, but a sense of order that lets you breathe easier and feels nicer to return to the next day.
9. Embrace a Hygge Mindset
Hygge isn’t just about things—it’s a mindset. Approach your workday with a sense of gratitude and mindfulness.
Celebrate small wins, like finishing a tricky task or sticking to your to-do list. Set boundaries too: when the workday is over, step away from your desk and transition into relaxation mode. And lastly, be kind to yourself. Not every day will be perfect, and that’s okay.
10. Add a Touch of Seasonal Hygge
Hygge thrives on seasonal touches, so why not let your workspace reflect the time of year?
In winter, add a soft throw blanket or a small bowl of festive decorations like pinecones or baubles. For spring, try fresh flowers or pastel stationery to brighten your desk. Summer could bring a jar of seashells or a light, citrusy candle, and Autumn is perfect for cosy colours, mini pumpkins, or a mug of spiced tea.
Changing up your workspace with the seasons keeps it fresh and makes your environment feel more connected to the world outside.
Feeling the Hygge yet?
Your work-from-home setup doesn’t have to feel clinical or uninspiring. By embracing hygge, you can create a space that’s not just functional but also comforting and uplifting.
So, light that candle, brew a cuppa, and get ready to tackle your to-do list in cosy, Danish-inspired bliss. Your home office just became the cosiest corner of your home.
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Free Download – 100 Ways to Add Hygge To Your Everyday Life!
Want to add more hygge to your life? This PDF download has 100 ideas for you. Simple, actionable ways to fill your life with hygge are divided into these areas:
- Hygge Home Comforts
- Hygge Outdoors
- Hygge With Others
- Hygge At Work
- Hygge Reading and Listening
- Hygge Days Out
- Hygge Eating and Drinking
- Weekend Hygge
- Have a Hygge Outlook on Life
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