Creating a Summer Hygge Corner at Home

When most people think of hygge (pronounced hoo-gah), they picture chilly nights, flickering candles, and warm blankets. But hygge isn’t just for fall and winter. This beautiful Danish concept of coziness and contentment can be embraced all year round—including in the sunny, slower-paced days of summer.

Creating a summer hygge corner at home is a lovely way to infuse your space with calm, comfort, and connection. Whether you live in a spacious house or a small apartment, there’s always a way to carve out a peaceful nook where you can unwind, sip something refreshing, and simply be.

Let’s dive into how you can create your own summer hygge corner—step by step.

What Is Summer Hygge?

Hygge is all about creating moments of comfort, ease, and enjoyment. In the summer, that might look a little different than the usual hot cocoa and knit socks. Instead, summer hygge is:

• Barefoot mornings on the porch with a cup of tea
• Fresh flowers in a jar by your bed
• Afternoon naps with the windows open
• Dinner outside with friends and laughter in the air
• A cozy reading nook that catches the afternoon sun

It’s not about perfection. It’s about savoring life’s little pleasures and making space for rest and joy, even in the middle of a busy season.

Step 1: Choose Your Spot

The first step is finding your corner. It doesn’t have to be big. A windowsill, a balcony chair, a spot under a tree, or a nook in your bedroom can work beautifully.

Look for a place that naturally feels calm to you. Somewhere with a bit of natural light is ideal, but anywhere you feel drawn to relax can become your hygge corner. This is your space, so follow your instincts.

Step 2: Keep It Light and Airy

Unlike winter hygge, which leans into heavy textures and dim lighting, summer hygge feels light, breezy, and fresh.

Here are a few ways to bring that into your corner:

• Use light fabrics: Think linen, cotton, or muslin throws. Drape them over a chair or lay one on the floor as a soft spot to sit.
• Go neutral or pastel: Soft whites, creams, blush pinks, sage greens, or sky blues help your space feel open and summery.
• Let the light in: If you’re near a window, keep the curtains sheer so sunlight can filter through. If you’re outside, position your spot for a little morning or evening sun.

Step 3: Add Natural Touches

Summer hygge is very much about bringing the outdoors in, or better yet, bringing your cozy corner outside.

• Bring in plants: A small potted plant or a vase of seasonal flowers adds life and freshness to your space.
• Use natural materials: Try a wicker basket, a bamboo mat, a wooden tray, or a jute rug to give your space an earthy, grounded feel.
• Scent matters: Essential oils like lavender, citrus, or eucalyptus can make the space smell like summer. A little diffuser or a spritz bottle works perfectly.

If you’re creating your corner outdoors, you’re already halfway there—nature is doing the decorating for you.

Step 4: Keep Comfort Front and Center

Hygge is all about comfort. Think soft, inviting, and simple.

• Add a cushion or two: Even if it’s just a single pillow, make sure it’s comfy enough to lounge with.
• Include a light throw: Summer evenings can get breezy. A soft, breathable blanket will keep you cozy.
• Have a seat you love: A hammock, a comfy chair, or even a pouf on the floor can make all the difference.

It’s okay if your corner isn’t Pinterest-perfect. What matters most is that it feels good to you.

Step 5: Add Personal Touches

Your hygge corner should feel like you. Add a few small details that make it extra special.

• Books: Keep a couple of your favorite summer reads close by. A basket or a little shelf works wonders.
• Journals or sketchbooks: If you like to write or draw, keep your tools nearby.
• A small tray: Perfect for holding your morning tea, a bowl of berries, or a glass of lemonade.

This is your time-out space. Make it a reflection of what brings you joy and peace.

Step 6: Use It Intentionally

Once your summer hygge corner is set up, give yourself permission to use it, daily, if you can. Even if it’s just for ten minutes.

Here are some beautiful ways to enjoy your corner:

• Morning rituals: Start your day here with a stretch, a journal session, or a mindful moment.
• Afternoon recharge: Take a break with a cold drink, a good book, or just a few quiet breaths.
• Evening wind-down: Light a candle, listen to music, or watch the sunset from your spot.

Hygge isn’t about doing more. It’s about slowing down, even just a little.

Bonus: Summer Hygge for Families

If you have kids at home, you can create a family-friendly version of a summer hygge corner. It could be a tent with books and pillows, an outdoor blanket with snacks and nature toys, or a quiet corner where you read together at bedtime.

You might even invite your little ones to help you pick flowers, arrange cushions, or decorate the space. They’ll love having a special place to slow down and feel cozy too.

Creating a summer hygge corner is such a simple, lovely way to bring more peace and presence into your days. It doesn’t need to be elaborate or expensive. A few thoughtful touches, a little light, and your favorite cozy comforts are more than enough.

In a season that’s often go-go-go, your hygge corner can be a gentle invitation to pause—to breathe, to rest, to savor.

So go ahead—find your spot, fluff those pillows, and make a little summer magic at home.

And if you already have a hygge corner, I’d love to hear about it. What’s in your space? What makes it feel special to you? Let’s keep the cozy inspiration going.

Happy summer hygge-ing!