Reena Simon’s hygge tips for summer

Time to think about your outside space and making it a special place to be, says Reena Simon of one of our favourite Scandi-loving Instagramers.

1 Our gardens need to nurture us in the same way that our homes do – as calming retreats, with cosy seating and places to eat with space for our children to play. Scandinavians seem to enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner outside come rain or shine.

2 Summer – and creating a warm wlecome – in our home starts at the front door. I love a seasonal wreath. I source one from a local florist, but you can also take the DIY approach with ranunculus, roses and lots of greenery, or try using fresh herbs.

3 We often associate hygge with winter, but it can also be found in summer. It’s the special moments that make you feel happy, relaxed and content – this can be sitting outside with a glass of wine under a blanket, or (finally) having family over for a relaxed summer barbecue.

4 Use plenty of texture to style your outdoor space, creating that comfortable vibe we all associate with hygge. Try a jute or all-weather rug under your dining table, add cushions to garden chairs and even sneak out the occasional sheepskin.

5 Decorating the windowsills with seasonal flowers and greenery, bringing summer in. We naturally gaze towards the light when we walk into a room on a summer’s day. Pop single flowers in different-sized vases.

Take every opportunity you can to eat in the garden. Make it easy, with baskets or tumblers for cutlery; keep a stash of napkins and plates good-to-go on your worktop or island, and don’t forget plenty of candles and lanterns.

– Reena Simon, @hygge_for_home

6 Think about the displays you create around the home. Hygge is enjoying moments and memories; why not start a summer treasure jar, where you can save finds from walks and trips away from home?

7 I appreciate our white painted walls and how they thrive more than ever in the summer months, reflecting the natural light. I also choose lighter bedding and textures to create a tranquil, laid-back and, dare I say it, holiday feel.

8 Hang lanterns and festoon lights in the garden to add a cosy and intimate feeling to your summer dining and barbecues – they are quite magical by night. You can also pick up small portable lanterns that youcan take with you if venturing elsewhere.

9 And finally, as we hopefully spend time catching up with loved ones this summer – whether it’s a day at the beach or enjoying good food at home in the garden – take time to reflect, enjoying the moment, the love and the hygge.

Words & photography: Reena Simon.

Read Reena’s latest feature in our Vol 10 Summer issue of Simply Scandi…