Hygge Van Life

The Hygge Van is a collaboration between Vanlife Customs and the creative duo of Alex and Koen over at Hygge Life. One lovely spring day our founder, Dave, was enjoying some coffee and a treat at one of his favorite places in the Vail Valley, the Hygge Cafe. The atmosphere in the cafe is as warm and inviting as the staff. The decor is thoughtfully curated so that everyone feels cozy and welcome. That’s when Dave got to chatting with Alex and Koen, the owners of Hygge Life and the Hygge Cafe about what it would look like to create the same signature Hygge vibe, but in a van. The next thing they knew they were sketching on napkins, design books were spread over the shared table, and the three wandered around the shop for pieces to inspire the design that would soon become the Hygge Van. 

Alex (left) and Koen from Hygge Life with the Hygge Van

What is hygge?

It’s a Danish concept that encompasses a slower, warmer, cozier and more intimate way of living. Think of everything that makes you feel warm and fuzzy on a winter day - and that’s a good place to start. How did the concept translate into a camper van design? The team decided to focus on three areas that are quintessentially Hygge: warm lighting, natural materials, and an ultra comfy lounge space.

Hygge Tip #1: Warm Lighting

We don’t recommend candles in your van, but that warm glow is a Hygge Life must. We achieved the feel of a candlelit space by having all indirect lighting. Dimmable LED lights warm the white oak ceiling and floor, and we accented with 12v bedside sconces and Hygge Life’s LED candle and globe lantern.

Hygge Tip #2: Natural Materials

Hygge Life recommends adding elements to your space that add tangible warmth, and inspire groundedness and comfort. We thoughtfully chose a variety of white oak for the tongue and groove ceiling, tambour backsplash, and the Akavit White Oak floors were a contribution from our friends at Stuga. Warm light reflecting on warm natural materials is effortlessly hygge.

Hygge Tip #3: “L” is for lounging

Hygge is all about spending quality time with loved ones and creating an intimate space to share. To accomplish this vibe we decided to build our first “L” shaped sofa with 5” memory foam cushions and included a removable extra large dining table that stows away. Play games, share a meal, and enjoy some mulled wine with friends. Hygge is better when shared :)

Sprinter on the streets, Hygge in the sheets

This collaboration was the perfect blend of elegant comfort and rugged adventure. Alex and Koen brought their eye for detail, design, and all things deliciously Hygge. Dave worked out how the van could have all of the amenities and systems that we’ve come to expect from a Vanlife Customs’ Sprinter conversion like the lithium battery system, induction cooktop, microwave, and hidden toilet. With its warm lighting, white oak, artisanal Belgian blankets, overstuffed sofa, and calming color palette - the Hygge Van invites you to take the road less traveled a little slower and more intentionally.

If you are interested in trying out the Hygge Life yourself, the Hygge Van is for sale and ready to take you on a long, intentional, and utterly cozy adventure.

Pictured left to right: Koen, Alex, and Dave