While you may not know this style through its name, you must have seen the Japandi interior design style all over your social media if you are an avid interior design enthusiast. But what is this style, and how to get started with it?
A mix of Scandinavian and Japanese interior design styles, the Japandi interior design is a perfect blend of East and West. This style merges the artistic essence of Japanese design and the wabi-sabi philosophy with the cozy, inviting feel of Scandinavian hygge. Both Japanese and Scandinavian aesthetics prioritize simplicity, the use of natural elements, comfort, and sustainability.
Japandi interiors typically feature neutral color palettes, high-quality natural materials, and a strong emphasis on incorporating greenery and elements of nature. In both Japan and Scandinavia, there is a deep appreciation for nature, which is reflected not only in the choice of materials like wood and linen but also in the organic shapes and the harmonious blending of various forms.
Though Japandi homes are now recognized as a well-established design style, their roots trace back centuries. When Japan reopened its borders in the mid-1850s after a long period of isolation, Scandinavian designers and artists were among the first to visit. They were captivated by Japanese culture, design, and the unique items found in local shops, which quickly became a source of inspiration for many Scandinavian creatives. This connection was natural, as both Japanese and Scandinavian designs share a strong emphasis on simplicity, the use of high-quality natural materials, and a deep respect for craftsmanship. These shared values allowed the two styles to merge seamlessly, resulting in a harmonious design movement that enhances and elevates both traditions.
Combining the Japanese philosophy of wabi-sabi with the Scandinavian concept of coziness or hygge, the Japandi interior design finds beauty within imperfections. If you are thinking of incorporating this unique concept into a home, it’s time to look at the four key elements that make this interior design a hit:
Japandi design emphasizes simplicity, with every item in a space chosen for its purpose and function. This minimalist approach reduces clutter, creating open spaces with clean, straight, or gently curved lines.
Natural light plays a crucial role in Japandi design, serving as a bridge between the indoor space and the natural world. Incorporating large windows and reflecting sunlight off bright white walls are key techniques used to invite light into the home.
Japandi design embraces a neutral color palette inspired by the natural world. The typical palette includes warm neutrals like beige and tan alongside cooler tones like gray and blue. Natural wood, greenery, and decor with soft pastels further enhance the connection to nature. The overall color scheme aims to evoke a sense of tranquility and calm, with bolder hues used sparingly as accents.
Sustainability is a core principle of Japandi design. The furniture in these spaces is often of exceptional quality, showcasing expert craftsmanship and an enduring appeal. Each item is deliberately selected for its place, featuring natural materials like wood, bamboo, rattan, linen, and cotton. Handcrafted decorative pieces made from terracotta, ceramic, stone, and glass further enrich the space.
If you want to add the Japandi interior design aesthetics to a home, it’s time to embrace sustainability and neutral colors while going big on minimalism and welcoming natural light. Here are 12 of the best expert-curated Japandi interior design ideas to help you get started:
Japandi style centers on creating a serene and minimalist space, making a neutral color palette essential for a Japandi living room. Start by choosing muted, understated tones like beige, taupe, oatmeal, and stone—these work well for both wall colors and the upholstery of larger furniture pieces, like in this image.
Wood is a natural material fundamental to Japandi decor that brings warmth and softness to an interior. This Japandi living room, in the image shown, has abundant wooden furniture, creating a cozy atmosphere. Alongside wooden furniture, Japandi spaces often feature wooden floors and slatted wood walls, further enhancing the inviting feel of the room.
Japandi interiors exude a sense of calm largely due to their lack of clutter. Decorations are displayed thoughtfully and with purpose, as seen in this living room. Avoiding unnecessary items that only occupy space and add visual noise is key to maintaining the serene atmosphere that defines Japandi design.
Natural light plays a crucial role in a Japandi living room, aligning with the design’s focus on harmony and well-being. Increased natural light offers many benefits, so finding ways to enhance it in the space is essential. To maximize natural light, consider minimal window treatments or sheer curtains that let sunlight gently filter through. This not only brightens the room but also strengthens the connection to the outdoors, a fundamental element of both Scandinavian and Japanese interior design.
A negative or an empty space lets selected pieces shine and provides room to breathe within a room. This beautiful living room exemplifies this concept beautifully. Each item is prominently displayed, and there is ample empty space on both the floor and walls. Practically, this approach also allows for fluid movement throughout the room, contributing to an open and airy atmosphere.
Wabi-sabi, the Japanese art of appreciating beauty in imperfection and simplicity, can be beautifully reflected in interior design. This might involve combining rustic and minimalist elements or incorporating raw materials into your decor, as seen in this straightforward living room. It also means accepting and celebrating the imperfections of any space rather than trying to hide or correct them.
The furniture in a Japandi living room is as crucial as the paint colors. Unlike other styles that might favor casual, oversized sofas, Japandi design emphasizes organic and thoughtfully selected pieces. Choose minimalist furniture with clean lines and natural shapes. Ideal options include a low-profile wooden sofa with simple cushions or a sleek Scandinavian armchair crafted from natural wood. Aim for minimal, functional furnishings and avoid overcrowding the space with too many pieces.
Plants and flowers bring warmth, cheer, and a splash of color to a minimalist interior. This is why they are a common feature in Japandi homes, even if it’s just a few stems, as seen in this Japandi living room. Whether it’s a simple foraged branch, fresh or dried flowers, or lush greenery, incorporating plants aligns with Japandi’s emphasis on a connection to nature.
Paper lanterns have long been a staple in Japanese decor and are naturally integral to the Japandi aesthetic. Recently, many designers have put a contemporary spin on these lanterns, creating modern interpretations like those featured in this Japandi living room. From table lamps to floor lamps and pendants, these versatile lights frequently appear in Japandi homes, enhancing both living spaces and other areas.
Japandi design incorporates dark tones to highlight furniture, wall colors, interior doors, and kitchen cabinets, adding depth to the space. While dark colors might seem at odds with Japandi's typically soft and airy feel, they play a crucial role in achieving balance. Just as in life, where light is more meaningful against a backdrop of darkness, these darker shades help us appreciate the light and subtlety of Japandi design.
Japandi design emphasizes craftsmanship, with artisans creating everything from furniture to décor, often by hand. This approach ensures that each interior is unique. The style is beautifully complemented by natural materials such as clay, glass, wood, and stone. Ceramics, bowls, and even large feature lighting pieces can be made from these elements. Additionally, a soft, shaggy rug can add warmth and contrast to the inherent coolness of minimalism.
Continuing with the theme of craftsmanship, exquisite ceramic pieces are essential in Japandi design. In Japan, where ceramics have a long and esteemed tradition, a striking vase or a textured bowl can bring depth and intrigue to any living space. Embrace handmade ceramics, unique pottery with imperfections, or vintage objects that have developed a charming patina over time. Such pieces lend character and authenticity to the space, showcasing the beauty found in imperfection. This philosophy aligns with the Japandi style’s focus on natural materials and shapes.
Eager to see your dream Japandi interior design come to life without lifting a finger? Try virtual staging! This cutting-edge tool lets you digitally place furniture and decor into photos of your space, offering a realistic preview of your design without the hassle of moving items or making physical alterations.
Elevate your virtual staging experience with Styldod! This intuitive platform allows you to upload images of your living room and watch it transform into a beautiful Japandi setting. It’s an affordable way to explore various design options and discover the ideal Japandi style for your home.
.png)
.svg)
.svg){kind=logo}
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)
