In my recent podcast with Isobel Star, an award winning and SBID (Society of British and International Interior Design) accredited interior designer with 20 years of design and industry experience, we explored how social media influencers and content creators have changed the way we see our homes. The rise of perfectly curated Instagram feeds and Pinterest boards has reshaped our idea of what a home should look and feel like. But are we missing something important in these picture-perfect frames?
The Illusion of Perfection
Scrolling through social media, we often come across stunning images of pristine living rooms, artfully arranged kitchens, and serene bedrooms. These snapshots capture a moment in time, perfectly posed and edited to fit a particular aesthetic. However, they offer only a fragment of the whole picture. You don't get a sense of how the entire room works together, the flow from one space to another, or the lived-in reality behind the scenes.
People naturally want to replicate these beautiful spaces, but they're often left with only a small piece of a much larger puzzle. The substance, the lived experience, is missing. A home isn't just a look; it's a feeling. Isobel tells us "It's what you can smell, hear, touch, taste, and feel. It's a whole-body experience that engages all your senses and emotions."
The Essence of a True Home
What truly makes a home is the care, consideration, and thoughtfulness you put into it. It's about the people who live there and the stories they create together. This essence of home cannot be bought in a shop or found on the internet. Instead, it comes from the love and intention you infuse into your space.
In your own home, think about how you can make space for reflective and quiet moments. Create areas that are inviting for company, friends, and family, making it easy to host gatherings and create hygge happy moments. Much of the frustration people feel about their homes often stems from functional issues: temperature, lighting, layout, and clutter. Addressing these practical aspects first can transform your space more profoundly than any trendy new light fixture advertised by an influencer.
The Myth of Perfection
It's important to remember that perfection isn't real. Nature itself is full of imperfections, and these irregularities add to its beauty. This concept is beautifully illustrated in the difference between an English country house and a Swedish home. While an English country house might focus on an idealised, often cluttered charm, a Swedish home emphasises simplicity and practical consideration. Swedish design encourages us to keep what works for us and get rid of the rest, focusing on functionality and comfort over flawless aesthetics.
Yet, even this approach can be packaged and sold as an ideal way to live. The underlying values of simplicity and practical consideration are often overshadowed by the commercial aspects of selling a lifestyle.
Creating Your Hygge Haven
Ultimately, your home should be a sanctuary that reflects your values and meets your needs. It should be a place where you feel comfortable and at peace, surrounded by items that bring you joy and comfort. Rather than chasing an unattainable ideal, focus on creating a space that works for you and your family.
Think about the function of each room, the way you use your space, and how it can support your daily life. Adjust the temperature, lighting, and layout to suit your needs, and declutter to create a more serene environment. Embrace the imperfections and the personal touches that make your home uniquely yours.
By focusing on these fundamental aspects, you'll create a home that not only looks good in a photograph but also feels good to live in. As Isobel Star and I discussed, a home is not just a look—it's a feeling. It's the warmth of a cosy blanket, the scent of a home-cooked meal, the sound of laughter, and the touch of a loved one. It's the embodiment of hygge, the Danish art of creating warmth, cosiness, and a sense of well-being.
You can visit Isobel's website here or Instagram here.
What are some ways you’ve brought the true essence of hygge into your home? Share your tips and experiences in the comments below!
