As winter approaches, the allure of a snug becomes undeniable. Picture a cosy hideaway with a den-like appeal, where you can unwind and wrap yourself in pure comfort. The snug is gaining popularity as a response to the ever-popular open-plan living trend. Modern homes boast indoor-outdoor flow and open-plan kitchens and living rooms as the epitome of contemporary design. While open-plan living fosters connectivity and a sense of spaciousness, that we all love. It often lacks one crucial element: privacy.
Enter the snug - a small, intimate space that offers a lovely contrast to the open-plan layout, a cherry on the top of your sundae if you will. This small addition packs a punch, in a really good way. A cosy nook is designed to be a retreat, a place to seek privacy, curl up with a book, or watch a movie. One of the beauties of a snug is that it doesn’t require much space from the overall floor plan; a mere 9 square meters can suffice to create a warm and inviting nook perfect for winter hibernation.
BENEFITS OF A SNUG
Sensory soothing A snug provides a dedicated low stimulation space away from the hustle and bustle of daily life – a place to roll out the yoga mat, light a candle or snuggle with a book. Sensory overload is a common malady of modern lifestyles… for which a snug is the perfect antidote.
Quiet time Open plan living is perfect for entertaining, marry it with a snug and you have a match made in heaven. Tuck the kids or grandkids away with a movie in the snug without disrupting the main living areas, so the adults can enjoy wining and dining in peace. Or flip that on its head… retire to the snug for a night cap while the kids clean up the dishes!
Versatility Despite its small size, a snug can serve multiple purposes. It can be a reading corner, a mini home theatre, a music room or a play area for the kids. Its versatility makes it a valuable addition to any home. Soundproofing this room is a great idea if it’s going to double as a media room or home theatre. Perfect for when you want to pretend you can't hear the kids' latest pop obsession.
Clients: Larry & Rosie Graham, Taupo
DESIGNING THE PERFECT SNUG
Creating the perfect snug involves thoughtful design choices. Here are some key features to consider:
Dark moody tones Opt for dark, moody tones or dramatic patterns to create an intimate atmosphere. Dark colours can make the space feel more enclosed and cosy, enhancing its den-like appeal. Paint the ceilings the same colour as the walls and architraves to extend the ambience to all corners of the room. If binge-watching Netflix is on the cards, then darker spaces make for a more theatre like ambiance and less reflective light.
Textiles, blankets & cushions Layer, layer, layer. Don’t be afraid to go over the top, layering different textures can make the snug feel more inviting and comfortable. Incorporating a variety of textures adds depth and warmth to the space. Think plush cushions, soft throws, lush drapes and rich upholstery. The advantage of this room is you can readily refresh soft furnishings to evolve with seasonal trends. Like you needed an excuse to buy more cushions!
Smaller is Better A snug is meant to be a small, intimate space. Embrace its compact size and focus on making it as cosy as possible. Small spaces can feel more personal and private, perfect for a snug.
Mood lighting Add instant ambience with dimmable lights, floor lamps and candles. Go for gold and install a wood-burner or gas fire in your snug and you’ll hibernate like a bear for the rest of winter!
Custom Cabinetry Utilise custom cabinetry to hide TVs, Wi-Fi modems, sound systems and other technology. This helps maintain a clean, uncluttered look while providing ample storage for family games and other activities. Or, as we like to call it, the place where the mess goes to hide.
Personalise Away from the public eye, make the snug uniquely yours. This is a space where you can show your true colours and obsessions without judgement. Displaying vinyl records, family heirlooms, book collections, or family photos will add character and charm to this room. Think of it as your own personal nest—without the twigs and feathers.
The snug is more than a trend; it's a practical and cosy addition to modern home design. As we continue to embrace open plan living, the need for private, intimate spaces becomes more apparent. A snug offers a perfect solution, providing a retreat where family members can relax, unwind, and enjoy some quiet time. This winter, consider adding a snug to your home design -a small change that can make a big impact. So go ahead, snug in and hibernate stylishly!
