Photo credit: www.vogue.com
When I embarked on a home redecoration project a few years back, I found myself deliberating for nearly two hours over the ideal lamp for a particular spot in my living room. My goal was to cultivate a serene environment, and I experimented with various lamps and bulbs before finally discovering the perfect combination that fostered tranquility. However, had I been aware of the Danish principles regarding lighting, this process might have been significantly smoother.
The Danish are well-known for their ability to foster a cozy and joyful ambiance, often encapsulated in the term “hygge.” It was only through my quest to create a comforting home that I delved deeper into this concept. Meik Wiking, who leads the Happiness Research Institute in Copenhagen, elaborates on hygge in his insightful book My Hygge Home: How To Make Home Your Happy Place.
Making the most of natural light is essential—strategically placing a desk or sofa near a window can enhance exposure to the sun’s rays. Wiking emphasizes the significance of specific lighting types, such as cooler and warmer bulbs, tailored to different activities. He advises considering the lamp’s placement, its intended use, and the overall atmosphere you wish to create in the space. “A soft, warm light is ideal for enjoying dinner or sipping wine, while a brighter light is necessary for practical tasks like washing dishes,” he notes.
The Importance of Light “Islands”
To cultivate a warm ambiance, Wiking suggests establishing “light islands” throughout your living area. These pockets of illumination can be constructed using a combination of overhead lights, floor lamps, table lamps, and bedside lamps. He recommends opting for ceiling or wall lights with glass or fabric shades, as opposed to traditional chandeliers, to foster a more intimate atmosphere.
The Joys of Candlelight
If investing in numerous new lamps isn’t feasible at the moment, candles can be a wonderful alternative. Their gentle, flickering glow can easily create a soothing environment during meals or as the evening winds down. Additionally, incorporating scented candles can enhance the inviting nature of your home. Experts recommend using warm, spicy scents for living areas, with fragrances like ginger, sandalwood, fig, and pine being particularly suitable.
Source
www.vogue.com