The Japandi (Japanese and Scandinavian) interior design has gained traction in recent years and is likely here to stay—displaying no signs of fading away. Fusing a balanced mix of style and functionality—Japandi interior decor creates a restful and comfortable home.
Japandi is a combination of Scandinavian and Japanese styles—inspired by wabi-sabi, the ancient Japanese philosophy, that propagates the idea of slow living and simplicity, and the Scandinavian custom of hygge, which embraces cosiness, comfort, and well-being.
Japandi seamlessly combines the modern and smooth lines of Scandinavian interior style with the functional, sleek charm of the timeless Japanese aesthetic. It is welcoming yet minimalist, and it largely focuses on the use of home accessories and furnishings in neutral tones, natural materials and a sumptuous mix of textures. If you are planning to incorporate Japanese-style interior decor, check out this guide to get it right.
To enjoy the best of both styles, bring in the Scandinavian cosiness with soft pieces and warm textures while maintaining and sustaining the refined charm of Japanese decor. Incorporate some ceramic accents and bouclé fabric. While both aesthetics emphasise the utilitarian, it is critical to embrace a Zen-like calming energy in your space.
The Japanese are fond of using exquisite patterns. Therefore, invest in your curtains, cushions, tableware, and throws. Sumptuous textures will add the hygge effect, and patterns will create vibrancy.
Rugs are important, too. Find a subtly patterned, big, cosy rug—woven with natural materials—and place it on the floor by your bed. Make your bed cosy with some wool mix throws.
When choosing colours, go for muted and neutral tones only. Think sand, cream, beige, taupe, stone and oatmeal. Anything in crisp white or too bright is a BIG No-No! Avoid anything that looks dominating or jarring because your focus should be on creating a harmonious and soothing atmosphere.
If these shades seem a bit too bland to you, feel free to add a contrasting hue. For this, you may opt for soft Scandinavian shades like pale blue, green, pink or grey—or pick a darker accent hue like charcoal grey or black for some richness.
Natural fibres in light colours—such as bamboo, cotton, rattan, paper and hemp—are some of the key elements of the Japandi style.
Eliminating clutter is one of the driving principles for achieving the Japandi aesthetic. This design style is inspired by open spaces and clean lines. But for active households, the homeowners can try "faux minimalism"—gather containers made of natural materials—like baskets, boxes, folding screens, or built-ins to conceal excess items—keeping your space neat and clutter-free.
Don’t overdo the accessories. Remember, Japandi-style decor focuses on cutting the clutter. Invest thoughtfully in unique timeless pieces. Carefully curated picture frames, elegant mirrors, minimalist artwork, vases, rugs and table lamps can transform the feel of your space— adding warmth without clutter.
You can bring in some plants—a fantastic natural accessory and a key element of Japandi aesthetics—and the simplest way to incorporate nature in your indoor space. Plants add a welcoming feel and can soften minimalist interiors.
Apart from elevating the visual appeal of your space, plants can cleanse the air—and if you wish to embrace the Japanese influence, add a bonsai tree.
Spruce up your minimalistic interior with some sleek and elegant lighting. All your spaces should be softly lit to incorporate a soothing, warm vibe. Install industrial lights for a touch of Scandinavian style against a darker Japanese-themed colour scheme. Or get some handcrafted light pendants in copper or pewter colours to add warmth, contrast, and elegance.
Another vital tenet of this interior design is sustainability. Choose every piece of furniture and accessories in natural materials and textiles like wood, bamboo, rattan, cotton, and linen. Opt for handcrafted decorative pieces made with ceramic, stone, glass and terracotta.
Are you ready to embrace the bright, light and functional elements of Scandinavian decor with the sophisticated and warm components of Japanese design? It's time to say yes to earthy, organic, comfy and minimalist with the Japandi-style decor!
