HOME IS WHERE HYGGE IS

When you think of the cosiest spot in your home, what image comes to mind? For many of us, it might be the kitchen. And for good reason; it’s where we gather with family and friends to share a meal.

For local Danish kitchen designers John and Helle Olsen, owners of Collaroy Kitchen Centre, creating a kitchen that’s not only sophisticated but also warm and inviting have been their life’s work. Beaches COVERED. sat down with these Hygge experts to get their top tips for creating a kitchen that will make everyone want to spend more time there.

Hygge (pronouced hoo-ga), a warm and comforting feeling, has been a part of Scandinavian culture since the 1800s. Today, it's a global phenomenon, and Nordic-style homes are known for incorporating it. Don't forget that the kitchen is another crucial space in your home that deserves to be cosy and warm, in addition to the rest of the home.

A HYGGE-INSPIRED COLOUR PALETTE

To create a hygge-inspired kitchen with a Scandinavian design aesthetic, embrace simplicity with minimal use of colour and neutrals. Emphasise light and airiness with varying shades of white and

grey. Then enhance the cosy feeling by adding pops of warm colour throughout. When incorporating colour trends in your hygge kitchen, focus on warm and inviting hues to create a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. Whether you choose warm neutrals, soft greens, rich blues, or warm metallics, these shades can help you transform your kitchen into a cosy and welcoming retreat.

SET THE MOOD IN YOUR HOME HUB

Add some ambience to your kitchen with lighting upgrades. Install dimmer switches to overhead lights and set the mood for a refreshing atmosphere. Or, streamline your life by incorporating an integrated lighting system within your cabinetry. For an added touch of elegance, include under-bench lights. These integrated lights will brighten up your space and add a touch of style to your kitchen oasis. It’s amazing how much lighting can transform your kitchen into a stylish and functional space.

SIMPLICITY IS KEY

When creating a kitchen, embrace simplicity. A cluttered space is not functional and will only cause stress,

so focus on getting rid of items that don't bring you joy. Creating a hygge atmosphere requires decluttering your kitchen and making sure everything has a designated home. Clever storage options like integrated cupboards can be incredibly helpful in hiding bulky appliances and maintaining a streamlined look. When every item has a designated home, your minimalist aesthetic will come together effortlessly! Bespoke kitchens offer a variety of storage solutions to make it easy for you to create your own sense of hygge in the heart of your home.

INCORPORATING NATURAL ELEMENTS

To create a warm, inviting kitchen that is hygge, it's important to integrate natural elements such as timber and plants. Adding timber features to light cabinetry or incorporating streamlined Nordic-style Teak Stools can add texture and warmth to the space. Integrating plants into your kitchen decor is another effective way to create a relaxing atmosphere. Thriving greenery on wooden shelves can add to the soft and gentle ambience that hygge requires, transforming your kitchen into a natural oasis. Some excellent plant options for a hygge kitchen include Spathiphyllum (Peace Lily), Schefflera (Umbrella Plant), Phalaenopsis (Orchid), Sansevieria (Mother-in-law's tongue), and ferns. And don't forget some potted herbs like Basil, Parsley, and Coriander as well.

For over 25 years, John and Helle have designed kitchens that accentuate the spirit of Hygge – family and togetherness. Their expert team can help you build an intimate atmosphere in any space, bringing their Danish design sensibility to every project. Visit their showroom today. •

Collaroy Kitchen Centre //  Shop 7-8 Pittwater Rd, Collaroy  //  Lic no: 185107C // (02) 9972 9300

insta: @collaroykitchencentre  //. www.collaroykitchen.com.au