Wind down the year with a selection of great new reads HYGGE By Charlotte AbrahamsOrion Books, R435What is Hygge? Aside from being a really difficult concept to explain, it's a Danish philosophy that encourages surrounding yourself with gentle, soothing things.Think candlelight, a bakery, dinner with friends. In a society where we're constantly connected to technology, fighting against the clock and depriving ourselves of everything from sugar to gluten, a hygge way of life is a tempting alternative that may offer a key to happiness.In this book, Charlotte Abrahams explores what cherishing yourself actually means, and she weaves the history of hygge and its role in Danish culture with her own attempts to embrace a more hygge life. Stylishly designed and beautifully written, the book examines the impact of hygge on her home, her health, her relationships and her happiness.story_article_right1 100 Contemporary Green Buildings by Philip JodidioTaschen, R841With eco-architecture fast becoming a standard, we're increasingly exposed to buildings that are pushing the boundaries when it comes to sustainability.This book brings together 100 brilliant examples of green projects by well-known architects such as Frank Gehry and Norman Foster, as well as young, up-and-coming creators from Latin America, the US, Europe and Asia. Being "green" can mean using passive solutions - which are as old as architecture itself - such as high ceilings, balconies, ponds and trees and it can include cutting-edge "active" technologies such as solar energy. Both approaches and many more are included in this collection of 100 of the world's most innovative and recent eco-friendly buildings.Natural Designs: Contemporary Organic Upcycling by Aurélie DrouetScriptum Editions, R665If you've ever dabbled in furniture or product design, or find the idea appealing, this book, with 20 original DIY projects from internationally renowned designers, is a great place to get started. A guide to creating natural and durable furniture of your own, it draws on nature for inspiration and teaches you how to create furniture and everyday objects with raw materials.From cork hanging lights and a slate desk to a natural wool pouffe and a birch coat stand, the book is full of simple ideas for products that you can make yourself. The best part is the designs aren't meant for experts - with step-by-step photos, plans and tips, they're easy to follow and accessible. For additional inspiration, the projects are interspersed with profiles of the contributing designers and other leading experts from around the world.story_article_right2 Botanical Style by Selina LakeRyland, Peters & Small, R580In this beautifully produced book, stylist Selina Lake shares ways to bring nature into your home by exploring five interpretations of the botanical look: vintage, boho, jungle, industrial, natural and tropical.Vintage is all about a gentle palette, delicate floral watercolours and pressed flowers, while Boho brings in a '70s vibe - think jungle-style pot plants, flower garlands and even a decorated teepee.Industrial features materials such as polished concrete, rusted metal and laboratory glass, combined with details like peeling paint and vintage science posters.Natural celebrates botanical prints and museum specimen cases, while Tropical features bold leafy prints, spiny cacti and palm trees. All looks come with DIY tips and styling advice, making this both a beautiful coffee-table book and a practical guide...