Summer is the time to enjoy life’s simple pleasures and to create rituals to bond with loved ones as well as nature. These are the very principles of the Danish word hygge, which roughly translates to cozy. While this might be a word more often associated with winter, when roaring fireplaces can be a singular holiday wish, summer is the perfect time to redefine cozy with a more casual vibe. Discover how to hygge during the warmer months for a season you will always treasure.

 Rattan
Rattan is a summer classic. Its timeless appeal makes one yearn for a summer space where, depending on the design, a breeze flows through openings and makes guests more comfortable. Rattan is traditionally used in outdoor spaces for its durability, however, designers have banded together for a rattan resurgence that will make Summer 2017 a cooler one in terms of style. When getting cozy this summer, add linens as throws for a textural contrast. Don’t think rattan can only be used for furniture; the wood can also be used in lighting, such as pendant fixtures elegantly hanging from pergolas or patios, to maximize that summer glow.

Outdoor dining
Summer nights were meant to be enjoyed outdoors with a cooling breeze and fiery setting sun. Invite family and friends to an unforgettable outdoor meal. Add elements of the warmer months to your table. Flowers that are fresh from the garden make ideal centerpieces. Tealights are also a must to make an outdoor space cozier. Garden stones add unexpected elements to table décor. Encourage conversation by allowing the sounds of summer to take center stage rather than playing music.

Lounge
A summer nap is elevated to iconic status when taken outdoors. Make sure that your outdoor space is clean and free of bugs before creating a VIP area for an afternoon or the season. Think from the ground up. Lay down a jute rug and add faux fur throw pillows to create a pleasing textural contrast.  Try to add as much color as possible to your new space. If you already have rattan furniture, a simple rearrangement, moving the seats closer together and adding accents, could work as well.

 Lighting
Cast a spell on summer with enchanting, affordable lights. Lanterns are quite popular for the season. Hang whichever size you please on trees or patio rails. Illuminate midnight garden paths as well with this accessory. Tealights are another great way to light your outdoor space. Place them on dining areas next to succulents for a chic centerpiece, or use seashells for a nautical angle. Place a tealight in a mason jar that is halfway filled with sand if little hands are a concern. For a backyard that looks like it has been blessed by faeries, wrap twinkle lights around trees.

Firepits
The hottest trend of Summer 2017 works best away from heavy traffic areas, where a crackling flame can be a safety concern. Another top consideration should be the view. Even a vertical garden or lush patch of perennials can provide an escape from the ordinary. Once the view is established, the most comfortable chairs possible should be placed around the pit. Keep in mind that the fire pit will be the new focal point of your backyard. All you need for a magical night is marshmallows, chocolate and graham crackers.

What do you think about hygge during the summer? So hot or too hot? Let us know in the comments below.