The Swedish concept of "lagom" (pronounced lar-gom) translates to "just the right amount"—not too much, not too little. Rooted in the phrase "lagom är bäst," meaning "the right amount is best," it embodies balance, moderation, sustainable living, mindful spending, and contentment with what we have.
Lagom extends beyond lifestyle into home design. A lagom-inspired home promotes sustainability, minimizes waste and clutter, and welcomes natural elements like plants and light. Adopting lagom principles fosters greater well-being, happiness, environmental benefits, and savings on your budget.
Expert tips to bring lagom into your home.
Embrace Balanced Colors
Your home should serve as a serene retreat. Opt for soothing palettes with cool greens, calming blues, and pale pastels to promote relaxation. Pair white or gray walls and solid wood floors with subtle accents from pillows, lamps, and rugs for authentic Scandi style.
Remember: Less is more
Clutter contradicts lagom. Aim for spaces that uplift rather than overwhelm—no endless piles of laundry, magazines, or miscellaneous items. Draw inspiration from Marie Kondo's The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up. Tackle room by room, and enjoy a transformed, refreshing home that sparks joy.
Add green
Plants offer an affordable way to connect indoors with nature, brighten spaces, and purify air. Low-maintenance options like aloe vera, spider plants, and hoya thrive easily. Mix cacti in metal or terracotta pots, or add vibrant orchids and spring flower boxes for color.
Let there be light
Maximize natural light to cut energy use: clear window sills, reposition blocking furniture, and swap heavy curtains for sheer ones—especially in summer. Switch to LED bulbs, which consume 85% less energy than incandescents, offering efficiency and longevity.
Recycle and reuse
Lagom embraces thriftiness. Seek second-hand furniture from thrift stores for unique character. Upcycle creatively, prioritize sustainable materials like linen, cotton, wool, and wood, and research production ethics—favoring eco-friendly options.
Invest in important pieces
While frugal, lagom advocates smart spending over seasonal trends. Reject throwaway culture by selecting multifunctional, beautiful items. Splurge on durables like sofas, dining tables, cabinets, and sideboards—their quality ensures longevity, saving time and money versus frequent replacements.
