Summer is a time that invites rest, relaxation, and spending time outdoors. Whether you have a small balcony, a spacious terrace, or a garden, you can definitely create the perfect summer hygge environment. Hygge is a Danish concept focused on creating a feeling of comfort and enjoying simple moments. The summer version of this style can be an ideal way to savour sunny days.
If you want to create the perfect summer hygge space on your balcony or terrace, you can take inspiration from our tips. And who knows — you might just create a spot where you can relax, read, enjoy your favourite drink, or simply spend quality time with your loved ones.
1. Comfortable Outdoor Seating: The Foundation of Summer Hygge
The key to a cosy outdoor space is quality seating. Even a small balcony will do — you don’t need a large garden to enjoy comfort. Create a snug spot where you can sit back and unwind. Focus on a few essential elements:
- Floor Seating or Cushioned Benches: If you’re short on space, soft cushions or floor pillows can be a great option. Simply add a few pillows to the floor or create a cosy reading nook with a comfortable cushioned bench, where you can enjoy your coffee or dive into a good book.
- Rocking Chair: If you have a larger balcony or terrace, a rocking chair is a perfect way to enjoy summer moments. The gentle, soothing motion adds an extra sense of relaxation and comfort.
- Rattan Furniture: This material is perfect for outdoor use and pairs beautifully with light, natural tones. Rattan chairs and tables are not only stylish but also incredibly comfortable.
Don't forget to add soft blankets and cushions. Natural materials like cotton, linen, or soft knits will add extra cosiness to your outdoor space. Even on cooler summer evenings, you can stay warm and comfortable with blankets that perfectly complement the summer hygge style.
No outdoor seating at home? Create your own! Head to a park, set up a picnic spot, bring along a chair or a bean bag, and don’t forget your book.
2. Lighting: A Magical Atmosphere for Summer Evenings
Summer evenings can become even more enchanting when you create the right atmosphere with lighting. Lighting is an essential part of hygge and can transform any space into a haven of relaxation.
- String Lights: Try adding fairy lights or string lights around the railing or on the walls of your terrace. These soft light sources create a warm and inviting atmosphere that’s typical of hygge.
- Lamps and Candles: Ceramic retro lamps or oil lamps make a great addition to your terrace. You can also use scented candles, which add a romantic touch to the evenings and release a pleasant fragrance into the space. For summer nights, candles with scents like lavender, vanilla, or citrus are ideal, creating a feeling of calm and freshness.
- Solar Lights: If you want to make your space eco-friendly, choose solar lamps. Available in various shapes and sizes, solar lights are perfect for pathways, flower beds, or balcony edges. You can place them anywhere without needing to connect to the electrical grid.
3. Plants: Natural Beauty Within Reach
Nature is one of the most important elements of hygge, both indoors and outdoors. Plants, flowers, and herbs bring life, colour, and fresh fragrance to your balcony or terrace. Many plants are easy to grow even in small spaces.
- Green Plants: Great plants for the balcony are those that grow quickly and withstand outdoor conditions, such as ferns, lavender, balcony palms, and climbing plants. You can create an interesting vertical space with climbing plants that surround your seating area and give you a true sense of nature, even if you’re sitting in the middle of an urban neighbourhood.
- Herbs for Culinary Use: Rosemary, thyme, basil, or mint can be grown even in small pots, making them perfect for your balcony. Fresh herbs are a wonderful addition to your summer meals and drinks.
- Potted Flowers: If you love colour, grow flowering plants such as geraniums, petunias, oleanders, or irises. The colours of the flowers will bring a cheerful and lively atmosphere to your space.
4. Enjoyable Summer Drinks and Refreshments
No hygge experience is complete without a good drink and some snacks to enjoy on your terrace or balcony. Summer hygge wouldn’t be the same without a refreshing drink to energise you for more moments of relaxation.
- Iced Drinks: Chilled beverages are a balm for the body and soul on hot summer days. Try homemade lemonades with fruit, fresh herbs, or delicious cocktails flavoured with mint, lemon, and other summery ingredients. For those who prefer natural options, homemade teas or smoothies are also perfect choices.
- Wine Evening: For summer evenings with friends and family, you can prepare a small aperitif or enjoy a glass of wine. Use quality glassware and decorate the table with flowers or candles to enhance the hygge atmosphere even more.
- Refreshing Snacks: Summer refreshments can be light and healthy – think fruit salads, hummus with fresh vegetable sticks, or small finger foods that are perfect for gatherings with friends.
5. Create Your Own Personal Corner of Calm
If, at the end of the day, you feel best in your own space – enjoying a glass of wine, reading a book, or meditating – then make it yours. Hygge is all about having a place where you feel safe and comfortable. This little corner could be:
- A Sofa or a Hanging Chair: Create a cosy corner with a chair or hanging chair for reading or relaxing. Don’t forget a footstool so you can put your feet up in comfort.
- Decorations: Add natural elements, wooden figurines, handmade accessories, or unique lighting that brings you joy and a sense of comfort.
Summer hygge on the balcony or terrace is all about simplicity, peace, and comfort. Creating a cosy space where you can enjoy warm sunny days and truly relax is key to building a pleasant and harmonious atmosphere. Remember, hygge isn’t just about things – it’s about how you feel in the moment. Embrace summer hygge and discover the romance of everyday life.