Some of the best design trends come from Scandinavia. 2016 was the year of Hygge (pronounced “hue-guh”) a Danish concept which had us hanging string lights and embracing firelight, knit slippers and hot drinks, dip dyed tassels and gold garlands all in the name of feeling cosy. Hygge is really more of a mood than an actual style motif, and it’s easy to love and make your own. While we think hygge is wonderful, as we roll into 2017 this comfort-seeking style is being replaced by another trend known as Lagom. Similarly tongue-twisting (the la is pronounced “bar”, and gom sounds like “prom”), Lagom is all about monochrome and minimalism. The look involves stark contrast, an abundance of white, and elegant simplicity. Already taking over Pinterest and instagram, you’ve probably encountered examples of Lagom online. To help you get on trend, Hazelview Properties presents Lagom, the philosophy of stylish simplicity taking the design world by storm.
IKEA’s Live Lagom Collection
A simple Swedish philosophy for everyday life, Lagom means ‘just the right amount’. According to IKEA, “It’s based on the idea that we can strike a healthy balance with the world around us without having to make extreme changes, and without denying ourselves anything. With LAGOM in mind, we think you can live a more sustainable, healthy and cost-conscious life at home, without any dramatic upheaval.” More than an effort to sell, IKEA’s Live LAGOM project is an active community aiming to help save energy and water, reduce waste and promote a healthy lifestyle. Check out more here.
Lagom Magazine
A style mag founded in 2014 by Bristol-based husband-and-wife team Elliot and Samantha Stocks, Lagom “is a celebration of innovation and creativity — a lifestyle magazine showcasing those who achieve a sense of balance between work and play.” Exhibiting the Lagom philosophy, the magazine prides itself on a grounded, humble aesthetic, showcasing three distinct areas: Spaces & Places, Craft & Create, and Escape & Recharge. Check out Lagom magazine’s website for more info on Lagom and style inspiration.
Lagom and Minimalism
According to Wikipedia, Lagom, “is said to describe the basis of the Swedish national psyche, one of consensus and equality (where) it is still widely considered ideal to be modest and avoid extremes.” Lagom is embodied by the value of "just enough". It can be compared to the "less is more" western idiom, and stands in contrast to the value of "more is better". It is viewed favorably as a sustainable alternative to the hoarding extremes of consumerism.” If you enjoy the concept and want to bring it into your life and home, minimalism is a good place to start. To create a Lagom inspired space, look for well designed and functional pieces and keep your rooms sparse -- do not overcrowd them with furniture and knick knacks. Less is infinitely more.
Read more on Hygge here, and Lagom here.
We could all benefit from embracing a philosophy like Lagom. We hope this guide to Lagom inspires you to redefine your space and embrace simplicity.
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