Now we've all heard of the Danish ‘philosophy' of Hygge. Well, if you haven't, a quick look in a dictionary and it is defined as: a quality of cosiness and comfortable conviviality that engenders a feeling of contentment or well-being. But now it's time to learn about the Swedish lifestyle of Lagom that's becoming more and more popular. Again, a cursory glance in the dictionary and it is explained thus: the principle of living a balanced, moderately paced, low-fuss life: those who achieve Lagom routinely take time to appreciate their surroundings, take several breaks during the workday, dress from a minimal and versatile wardrobe, and treat others with respect and kindness.
It is well known that Scandinavians have their own unique worldview of how to live and be happy. In short, Lagom can be translated as ‘neither a lot nor a little, just enough” and it surrounds the whole life philosophy of a ‘good' Scandinavian and relates to all parts of their everyday lives. According to the Lagom theory, life at every level must be balanced without extremes and intensity. This also includes how they design the interiors of their homes.
How we design our home, as we just mentioned, is one of the key factors in shaping our daily life. As Lagom is becoming more and more recognized as a lifestyle, it is influencing interior design across the world by setting its own golden rules and there are many books devoted to the subject.
If you want your home and living space to be in accordance with the Lagom lifestyle, check out some of the design tips below that we've picked out for you.
Tone it down
Minimalism is the trademark style of Scandinavian living and, according to Lagom, neutral colour combinations will provide the desired result. Combine earthy shades to create a sophisticated space and, contrary popular belief, neutral hues do not create a cold canvas.
Be Practical
Apart from the aesthetic element, practicality is just as important according to Lagom. If there's a particularly indulgent item of furniture that you've had your eye on but you know it just won't fit into your living room, leave it where it is - in the store! If you clutter up your living room you won't be able to move around freely. Is your sofa overflowing with cushions that you simply haven't been able to resist? Okay they may look nice, but can you really relax in comfort with so many cushions? These are questions that, according to Lagom, you have to ask yourself. Moreover, natural organic materials can make your room feel warm, cosy and friendly without weighing down the feel of the space.
The Devil's in the Detail
A room is considered stylish when it has design details as key elements that show it off to its advantage. Real plants, sculptures in natural materials and glass features that will lend harmony to your space are all an essential part of Lagom. According to the Lagom lifestyle, we should choose pieces which we truly love and that we would want to be a part of our home for the rest of our lives. As such, classic shapes and forms, elegant materials and colours are what you should pay attention to.
As we've already referred to, there are plenty of books on the subject of Lagom. However, if you just want a taster of what it involves in other areas of your life other than what we've already talked, about read on and learn how to live your life according to a Lagom lifestyle. * Life according to Lagom is to lessen the negative impact you have on the environment.
* We can all relate to that, especially as we can now see the adverse effects our lifestyles are having on the planet.
* Another is to find the balance between your personal life and your professional life.
* Easier said than done I hear you say but where there's a will there's a way. You'll be happier for it in the end.
* Declutter your home.
* We talked about this relating to interior design. A cluttered home affects your inner peace. By decluttering your home, you will declutter your mind resulting in a general feeling of lightness.
* Take time out for ‘fika' breaks.
* A fika break is the time a Swede decides to leave everything aside in order to devote some time to enjoying a tasty cup of coffee which is often accompanied by a snack in order to decompress and perhaps spend a few minutes with friends. In fact, in most working environments and in some stores in Sweden there are specially designed spaces in order for you to have a fika break.
* Accept yourself for who you are and live in harmony with those around you. Again this is not as simple as it sounds. You need to work at this but if you can achieve self-acceptance you will be able to look at yourself in the mirror and accept very last bit of what makes you you. Wouldn't that be nice?
* Learn to cook and spend your free time creatively with arts and crafts.
* Enjoy yourself exercising in the great outdoors, especially in green spaces.
