Despite their cool climates and limited daylight, Scandinavian countries are continually ranked as some of the happiest places in the world to live. Their secret? Hygge.

Adrian Norman

Head of Design

Thursday, 28th August 2025

Less than 1 minute read time

About Adrian

What is hygge?

The Danish lifestyle concept has become a fixture in design conversations over the past decade, yet it remains curiously hard to pin down. Pronounced “hoo-gah,” hygge represents a sense of comfort, ease and wellbeing that comes when your environment and mindset align.

In Denmark, hygge is part of everyday life, shaping how people spend time together, how spaces are designed and even how long winters are endured. Many Danes point to hygge as a powerful contributor to their nation’s reputation as one of the happiest countries in the world.

The global fascination with hygge points to a bigger question: what does it reveal about the environments in which we thrive? If it’s about creating comfort, connection and balance, then there’s a lesson here for the rest of us.

How can we bring a little hygge into the workplace?

1. Comfort in the details

A hygge inspired office starts with warmth and comfort. This doesn’t just mean turning up the thermostat, but creating a sense of cosiness through design. Soft textures, layered lighting and warm colour palettes can transform even a minimalist workspace into somewhere that feels inviting. When planning a new office design or fit out, consider mixing natural materials like timber or wool with adjustable lighting that avoids harsh glare. These touches help people feel at ease, encouraging them to stay longer and feel more at home in the workplace.

2. Spaces that bring us together

At the heart of hygge is the idea of community, which translates into office design as spaces that bring people together. Informal lounges, communal tables and flexible collaboration corners create natural opportunities for conversation and connection. During a fit out, it’s worth prioritising areas where people can gather away from their desks, whether that’s a comfortable breakout space, a shared kitchen or simply a few well placed armchairs. These spaces help to create a sense of belonging, which can be just as important as the work itself.

GPE Bramah House industrial inspired office design

3. Creating everyday calm

Hygge also speaks to balance and calm, something every office needs in the midst of busy working days. Quiet zones, acoustic solutions and a generous use of greenery can provide that sense of retreat when it’s needed most. In a new workplace design, incorporating calming elements doesn’t have to mean dedicating large amounts of space - small, thoughtfully designed nooks or partitions can make a big difference. Creating these spaces ensures employees have somewhere to recharge, supporting wellbeing and focus.

4. Simplicity with substance

Hygge celebrates simplicity - finding beauty in the essentials. In office design, this means avoiding clutter and focusing on what really matters: functionality, comfort and flow. A well planned fit out can streamline layouts and reduce unnecessary distractions, while still creating an environment that feels human. Thoughtful choices in furniture, finishes and storage can deliver a clean, calm aesthetic without losing warmth. Simplicity makes a workplace more intuitive, supporting both productivity and a sense of ease.