Let’s admit it, we’re all a bit obsessed with the Scandinavians. From their minimalist designs to their lifestyle, we’re attracted to all things Scandi.
Unsurprisingly, the design world caught onto the Danish idea of hygge – creating a warm atmosphere and enjoying the good things in life with good people. But as we know, in the world of trends, the only constant is change. And this year, hearty hygge has taken a backseat to the Swedish concept of lagom, yet another inspiring trend from the land of the Northern Lights.
While hygge is all about feeling cosy and comfortable, lagom embraces moderation, balance and being more mindful.
Balancing act
Translated from Swedish, lagom means “enough, sufficient, adequate, just right”. In a world where we’re constantly bombarded with technological clutter, work stress, bills, keeping up with the Joneses, we can all do with a bit of lagom. Our approach to finite natural resources such as water can also do with a good dose of Swedish wisdom.
Without sounding too philosophical (after all, too much goes against the lagom grain), it’s about taking charge of our lives. Rather live a meaningful life than be a more-monger.
A lagom home
Lagom design is all about understated style: plain colours and clean straight lines, nothing too fancy or showy.
English textile designer William Morris (1834 – 1896) nailed the concept of lagom when he said: “Have nothing in your home that you do not know to be useful or believe to be beautiful.”
In short, steer clear of mass-produced, cookie-cutter furniture and accessories. Rather embrace fine craftsmanship and natural materials by adding unique artisanal pieces to your decor scheme.
Image: Florrie + Bill
Image: Florrie + Bill
Image: Gonsenhausers
Image: AGA
Image: Norsu Interiors
Get organised: Restore harmony in your home by getting rid of unwanted clutter. Create an organised space where there is a place for everything and everything is in its place.
Image: Garden Trading
Image: Muebles
A lagom lifestyle
Lagom is about taking charge and finding balance.
Nature first: Live a healthier, more sustainable and cost-savvy life by making a few tweaks. First, reduce, reuse, recycle. Always. Also, lower your carbon footprint by switching to energy-saving LED bulbs.
Image: Illumina
Fresh pickings: Make your household more self-sufficient by growing your own herbs and veg. Most herbs can be grown from seed and are great options for pots and window boxes. Home-grown produce always tastes better!
Image: Life is a Garden
Image: Ikea
Good to know: Want to learn more about living a lagom lifestyle? Scandinavian furniture manufacturer IKEA’s LIVE Lagom Project includes handy hints on living a rewarding, but responsible life.
Sources: www.visitdenmark.com, www.goodreads.com, www.ikea.com, www.graphicspedia.com
Leave a Comment