Scots answer to hygge
Co`sagach is gaining attention as the latest design trend but how does it differ from other international design terms, asks Bea Taylor.
The Danish concept of ‘‘hygge’’ and the Swede’s ‘‘lagom’’ have dominated design trends in the past two years. But now another northern nation has decided to jump on the bandwagon, and from bonny Scotland comes ‘‘co` sagach.’’
It’s a Gaelic word, described as the feeling of being snug, sheltered and warm. The Scottish tourism body, Visitscotland, identified the trend and says co` sagach can be achieved in all seasons. It is all about embracing the outdoors from the indoors and feeling cosy whatever the weather.
In interior design this means embracing natural textures and hues, a fireplace and snug blankets.
Co` sagach joins the likes of other international concepts and ways of living such as wabi-sabi, ikigai (both Japanese) and gezelligheid (Dutch) influencing interior design. But what do all these words actually mean? Let’s start with the most talked about one, the Danish hygge, pronounced ‘‘hoo-gah’’. Hygge is the art of creating intimacy and enjoying the simple things, so it’s possible you’ve already experienced it without knowing. The actual word is a noun and an adjective for ‘‘well being,’’ and has often been associated with the feeling of being cosy.
In interior design, hygge is all about keeping things simple (think Scandi-style) but with little indulgences, like snug throws, a roaring fire and lots of texture.
Designer Alex Fulton suggested it’s about creating a warm atmosphere and enjoying the good things in life with good people. ‘‘The warm glow of a candle, wrapping yourself in a duvet on a summer evening watching the flames of a brazier, snuggling down with a mid-winter book, these are all hygge.’’ This Japanese lifestyle concept centres around the idea of ‘‘living your best life’’. Ikigai is almost the antithesis of hygge. Instead of slowing down, it’s all about finding a purpose and going for it. It’s a reason to get up in the morning.
In terms of interior design, it has some similarities to hygge in that it encourages simplicity and flow. It even follows a minimalist outlook by suggesting homes should only have items that have special meaning to the homeowner.
Think buying less, buying better and having a mindful interior. It’s a combination of what you love, what