Scandinavian culture is often thought of as being the most joyful anywhere in the world. Here are their best suggestions for how to create joy even during the most difficult time during the winter.
Winter is on the way. These three words can bring grinning teeth and shivers pre-emptively across the northern hemisphere at this season, but it’s also a fun season if you have the right attitude and the proper lighting. Let’s learn from those happy Swedes and jolly Danes and find out what Nordic lighting makes them so happy as the sun barely sets close to at the Arctic Circle.
In particular in the UK the winter season is seen as a time to be endured, to make it through the winter months while looking forward towards springtime. However, rushing through winter while keeping an eye towards warmer weather does us the disservice of not taking time to enjoy winter. Slowing down and taking in the variations in seasons and the possibility of connecting with your family, friends and even your own family is something that Scandinavians have developed. That’s the reason Scandinavians aren’t just surviving with the winter weather, but are actually taking advantage of the opportunities winter offers.
Take a stoic approach to hygge.
Inculcating Hygge (a Danish term for comfort and ease of use that is closely related to Sweden’s kos and Norway’s langom notions) in the winter months is as essential as taking advantage of the abundant outdoors during the long, sunny summer days. You can increase the feeling of satisfaction by making the right lighting. Candles that open flame have been the standard choice for Scandinavia and all over the world.
In the modern era there are a lot of naked bulbs replacing the role of wicks with no wicks. Pick the latest Edison reproduction bulbs that have extravagant filaments. Even though their lumen output is quite low however, they look charming and inviting for accents. It is possible to place them in a window, like the one illustrated above, to imitate that Scandinavian tradition of lighting candles inside windows.
Make sure to keep things simple.
The natural materials of nature and the neutral shades are the hallmarks of Scandinavian design. There’s something relaxing about wood, glass and wool. Stone and glass create a sense of ground and connect it to the natural world. The combination of these materials in a thoughtful way creates an elegant, earthy look that is comfortable and elegant in the same way. Naturally sunlight is the most important factor in the daytime So, open the shades as often as you can to get the most out of the sun’s fading.
Choose soft, even light.
A brighter light isn’t always better. Although you may find yourself wanting more light during winter, lighting your rooms with bright bulbs isn’t the solution. Instead, you can customize your lighting by using portables and pendants that are deliberate, thoughtful and, more importantly not glare-free.
Designers such as Poul Henningsen have gone to extraordinary measures to create lighting that doesn’t irritate your eyes with bright, shocking spots. The designs of his cult PH series are carefully layered to ensure that the light they emit is as appealing and pleasing as the silhouettes. Light that is gentle to look at is appreciated in the dark of the day. It helps to make the transition less jarring. Also, dimming the lights to make room for a roaring fire is among the best things about winter.
Find plenty of candlelight.
To be truly Nordic However you should at the very least think about candlelight that is genuine. There’s no substitute for the warmth and warmth that a burning flame can bring. Votives or tea light bulbs placed in sparkling glass holders make a great centerpiece, and classic taper candles could look contemporary in an elegant sleek brass holders. Think about the use of a candle (or twelve or two) to add a unique accent for romantic meals, intimate evenings, or just for some unwinding time by yourself.
Don’t forget layers.
Also, think about layers. While the layering of your bedding or clothing is in winter, layered lighting can provide warmth and flexibility when you go about your day. Ambient light, task and accent lighting can all be used to create a illumination that’s more appealing and welcoming than one overhead lamp. Also, as always, dimmers can be a key element in regulating your home’s lighting all through the year.
