As you will no doubt know, Maileg mice originate from the Scandinavian country of Denmark. Therefore it's really important for them to continue the Danish tradition of hygge in their home, wherever home happens to be. Maileg mice find new homes in all parts of the world, so giving your dollhouse a feeling of hygge will make your mice feel right at home, whether they're living in York or New York.
So in this blog post we're going to talk about how you can get hygge in your Maileg mouse house. But first up, we need to know what hygge is.
What is hygge?
Hygge is a Danish term that doesn't have a direct translation in English but it can be loosely described as a sense of cosiness, contentment, and well-being. It's about creating an environment that promotes relaxation and happiness, often through simple, everyday pleasures. This can include anything from enjoying a cup of tea by a roaring fire to spending time with loved ones. The essence of hygge is about slowing down, appreciating the moment, and fostering a sense of connection and comfort.
Okay, so now we know what hygge is, how do we get it in our dolls house? Here are my top 7 ways to create hygge in your Maileg mouse house.
1. Warm Lighting
One of the most important aspects of hygge is lighting. Soft, warm lighting creates a cosy and inviting atmosphere. Maileg lanterns and lamps are the perfect way to add a warm glow to your dolls house. There are some gorgeous floor lamps in Maileg's autumn winter 24 collection in various colour options: sand, mint and dark powder, Not just for the outside, Maileg lanterns are a lovely way to add some soft lighting to your dolls house interior too. Micro fairy lights dotted about your dolls house add a magical touch. I get mine from Lights4Fun but if you search for 'micro fairy lights warm white' you'll find similar. Be sure to choose 'warm' fairy lights to get the feeling of hygge.
2. Comfortable Furnishings
Think soft, plush textures and comfortable seating. With Maileg sofas and chairs you can create a space where your mice can relax and unwind after a long day. This Maileg sofa is the perfect place for your mice to relax and put their feet up.
3. Soft Textiles
Incorporate plenty of soft textiles to enhance the feeling of warmth and cosiness in your dolls house. Think patterned rugs, knitted blankets and plush pillows. All of Maileg's miniature beds come with the most beautiful blankets and pillows, as do the matchboxes that Maileg matchbox mice come in. There are a number of Maileg beds to choose from. The ones in the picture below are the Maileg vintage bed in rose and the Maileg vintage bed in mint. Both are designed in an old-fashioned, vintage style and feature a mattress, pillow and blanket.
4. A Cosy Fire
No home should be without a fireplace for the family to gather around on cold, Scandinavian evenings. Maileg's fireplace comes in two shades: vintage blue and off-white. Switch the fire on and watch the flames glow.
5. Family Time
Hygge is as much about relationships and connections as it is about the physical environment. So invite your Maileg friends and family over for a cosy get-together. Serve comfort food and enjoy each other’s company. Here are some of our Maileg micro bunnies and rabbits having a get together and enjoying their favourite snack of carrots and leeks from the Maileg fruit and vegetable crate.
6. Natural Elements
Bring the outdoors inside by incorporating natural elements such as plants and natural wooden furniture. Nature has a calming effect and helps create a serene environment. The Maileg table and stool set is as cute as a button! Crafted from natural wood, the table and stool are inspired by buttons. I put some tiny flowers from my garden into the top of a cosmetics bottle to create a beautiful, miniature flower display to bring a touch of nature to my dolls house.
7. Simple Pleasures
Hygge is also about finding joy in simple pleasures. This can be a good book, a home-cooked meal or a warm bath. Why not create spaces in your Maileg mouse house for these hygge-giving activities, whether it's a reading nook, a dining area, or a comfy corner for relaxation? Big Sister Wellness mouse's favourite way to relax is to take a warm bath in her metal teacup bath.
Little Sister Ballerina mouse, on the other hand, loves to spend time sitting on her old-fashioned style rocking chair in her reading nook, enjoying her favourite novels. Stuart Little is her favourite! I got these beautifully detailed miniature books from a shop called Landau House on Etsy. I've used the crate from the fruit and veg crate as a little table for the reading nook.
In conclusion, hygge is a delightful way to enhance your Maileg mouse's living space. By focusing on comfort, warmth, and simplicity for your Maileg mouse family you can create a dolls house that not only looks inviting but also feels like a true sanctuary. Your mice will thank you for it!