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Lagom – the Swedish attitude to life at home
What does lagom mean?
Lagom is a typically Swedish word that is difficult to translate directly. Roughly speaking, it means ‘just the right amount’, ‘balanced’, or ‘not too much and not too little’. At its heart, it’s about finding balance – in the way we consume, our behaviour and our lifestyle.
The word itself has deep roots with one theory suggesting it comes from the Old Norse phrase laget om, meaning ‘around the group’, and referring to the fair sharing of mead so that everyone received just enough. That sense of balance continues to shape Swedish thinking today even down to how people design and furnish their homes.
Lagom as a way of life
In Sweden, lagom is more than an interior design trend, it is a way of life. The principle is to seek and maintain balance in all areas.
- Balance in daily routines: In a fast-paced world, lagom reminds us to live. In Sweden, work–life balance isn’t seen as a luxury, but as essential. Working hours are designed to leave space for family, friends and personal interests. The idea being when you are well rested work and live better.
- The culture of fika: At the heart of everyday life in Sweden is fika, a coffee break that’s about far more than a quick cuppa. It’s a pause in the day to take time to connect often accompanied by a cinnamon bun or pastry. Fika is about community, relaxation and simple pleasures.
- Time in nature: Lagom also means making time to be outdoors, whether that’s a walk in the forest, a cycle ride or a picnic in the park. Even in the cities, green spaces are central to life in Sweden. Nature offers calm, clarity and renewal.
Find fika recipes here: Swedish Pastries: Cinnamon Buns, Semlor, and Lussekatter
Lagom means allowing time for breaks and relaxation.
Lagom and sustainability
At its core, lagom is sustainability in practice.
- Buy less, buy better: Choose quality over quantity. One well-made piece of furniture that lasts for years and can be handed down to children or grandchildren, is worth more than cheaper pieces that will wear out quickly.
- Minimalism with warmth: Lagom isn’t about strict minimalism but about surrounding yourself with things that bring joy and have purpose. Owning less can be liberating and creates space for what really matters.
- Respect resources: When something is broken repair it, buy second-hand instead of new and consume mindfully rather than impulsively. This lifestyle is kinder to the planet and to your own wellbeing.
Lagom as a path to inner peace
Lagom reminds us that true contentment often comes not from chasing ‘more’, but from appreciating what’s enough.
- Mindfulness in the everyday: A morning coffee by an open window, soaking up natural light in the room or sharing an undistracted dinner with family – these small moments are more valuable than we think.
- Creating rituals: Light a candle in the evening, prepare a cosy reading nook with tea, or set the table with care. Small rituals bring calm and rhythm to daily life.
- Ask yourself: What feels ‘just right’ for me and how can I invite more of that into my days?
Lagom is also about spending time in nature, not too much, not too little. Just the right amount.
Lagom through the seasons
In Sweden, life shifts with the seasons and lagom follows this rhythm.
- Spring and summer: Long, light-filled days invite time outdoors. Meals are shared in the garden, picnics by the water, flowers on the table. Indoors, light fabrics and fresh colours reflect the brightness of the season.
- Autumn and winter: The darker months invite cosiness indoors. Candlelight, blankets, soft lighting and evenings at home create comfort. Natural colours deepen, materials become heavier – everything becomes cosier
Read more here: Summer bucket list: 21 Swedish ideas for unforgettable summer days Winter bucket list – 17 Swedish things for you to try this winter
Lagom is a way of life - bringing balance into your home
Closely tied to Scandinavian design the lagom style puts even more emphasis on restraint, sustainability and functionality. Instead of filling rooms with decoration, it focuses on the essentials. Every piece should have both a purpose and a sense of calm, natural beauty.
1. Less is more
A lagom-inspired home feels tidy, harmonious and uncluttered. Choose furniture you truly use, colours that uplift your mood and decoration that has meaning.
2. Natural materials
Wood, linen, wool and ceramics form the backbone of the Swedish style. They bring cosiness and underline its sustainable spirit.
3. Subtle colours and light
Soft, neutral shades – white, beige, light grey, pale green – are typical of a lagom style. They soothe the senses and combine beautifully. Natural light is just as important.
Tip: Large windows, airy curtains and warming lamps create a welcoming and cosy atmosphere.
4. Quality over quantity
Instead of filling rooms with many small pieces, choose a few high-quality items that will last. Stylish details are still welcome – the key is to select carefully, so that your home nurtures you for years to come.
Living lagom – more than just an interior design style
Lagom extends far beyond interiors. It’s a holistic approach to life that includes:
- Sustainable consumption – buying less and more thoughtfully
- Work–life balance – resting without guilt
- Social harmony – fostering respect, equality and community
By embracing lagom in all areas, you nurture mindfulness, contentment and sustainability - all central to Scandinavian wellbeing.
