Living flames create hygge best when you group your candles in odd numbers and varying heights, mix candlesticks and lanterns and go for a warm, soft glow. Remember safety: a stable surface, no draughts, and always put them out when you leave the room.
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Candles are about as Danish as it gets – hygge in its purest form. The soft, flickering glow makes a room feel warm and inviting in an instant. Here are some simple ideas for creating atmosphere with candles and candlesticks.
Group your candles
A single candle is nice, but several candles together create far more atmosphere. The classic stylist rule is to group them in odd numbers – three, five or seven – and vary the heights, so the group feels alive and has depth.
- Group your candles in odd numbers for a natural, lively look.
- Mix tall and short candles so the eye has something to move up and down.
- Place the group on a tray or a dish so it looks pulled together.
Mix candlesticks and lanterns
Variation makes a group of candles more interesting. Feel free to mix different types: a tall candlestick, a couple of low ones and maybe a lantern or a tealight holder. Materials like ceramic, glass and metal work beautifully together and give an inviting, curated look.
Tip: Place your candlesticks in front of a mirror or a window. The flames are reflected, and the hygge doubles without any extra candles.
The warm glow
Candles give off a warm, low light that's quite different from harsh ceiling lighting. It's exactly this soft glow that creates calm and hygge. Feel free to turn off or dim the other lights, so the candles can really come into their own and set the mood.
| Placement | Atmosphere |
|---|---|
| The dining table | Festive and unifying for dinners and guests |
| The coffee table | Relaxed hygge for the evening |
| The windowsill | A cosy glow to the outside – lovely during the dark months |
| The bathroom | A calm spa feel for a warm bath |
| The hallway | A warm welcome for guests |
Candles in every room
Hygge doesn't have to be just at the dining table. Feel free to spread candles across several rooms, so the whole home gets a cosy glow. A couple of tealights in the hallway, a candlestick on the coffee table and a single candle in the bathroom make a noticeable difference to the mood.
Candles for every season
Candles belong especially to the dark months, when they're lit early and bring warmth. But they work all year round – for a summer evening on the terrace, a cosy dinner, or just a quiet evening at home. Adapt the colour and candlestick to the season if you fancy a change of look.
Safety first
Candles are beautiful, but they call for some care. Follow these simple tips:
- Always place candles on a stable, non-flammable surface.
- Keep a good distance from curtains, paper and other flammable materials.
- Avoid placing candles in draughts, so they don't burn unevenly and smoke.
- Never leave burning candles unattended.
- Always put out the candles when you leave the room or go to bed.
Frequently asked questions
How many candles should you use to create cosiness?
The most important thing is to group the candles. A group of three, five or seven candles at varying heights creates more atmosphere than lots of scattered single candles.
Why should candles be in odd numbers?
Odd numbers are perceived as more natural and dynamic to the eye and are a classic stylist rule. However, it's an aesthetic recommendation – not a fixed rule.
Can you place lit candles on a windowsill?
Yes, but keep a good distance from curtains and other flammable materials, place the candle stably, and never let it burn unattended.
Why is my candle smoking?
Candles often smoke if they're in a draught, or if the wick is too long. Place the candle somewhere calm without a draught, and trim the wick a little shorter if needed.
Can you use lit candles all year round?
Yes. Although lit candles especially belong to the darker months, they work well all year round – for parties, a summer evening outdoors and a quiet evening at home.
Summary
Lit candles create cosiness when you group them in odd numbers and varying heights, mix candlesticks and lanterns, and let the warm glow come through. Spread the candles across several rooms, adapt them to the season – and always remember safety with a stable surface, no draughts, and putting them out when you leave.
Read also
Create cosiness at home with the range from Dims Studio – see our candlesticks and candles.
