As a color consultant and design enthusiast, I always enjoy exploring emerging trends and styles that make waves in the interior design world. If you’re a frequent reader of mine, you know I cover a wide range of styles derived from cultures and artistic movements from all over the world! In this article, I wanted to take the opportunity to cover a style that many homeowners are beginning to discover and have a vested interest in: Japandi!
If you’ve admired the soothing elegance of a serene, cozy Scandinavian home or the effortless minimalism of Japanese interiors, you’re already familiar with the core elements of Japandi interior design. The truth is, Japandi blends the best of both worlds! Put semi-simply, Japandi interior design blends Japanese and Scandinavian (hygge) design styles. This merge creates a warm, functional, and effortlessly serene interior vibe; it’s perfect for creating spaces that are relaxing and rejuvenating at the same time. Who doesn’t need that in their lives these days!
Japandi design is more than a fleeting trend, even though the name may remind you of crossbred designer dogs like cockapoos, noodle dogs, and puggles. While Japan and Scandinavia are geographically distant, they share a love for simplicity and natural materials and an embrace of beautiful imperfections.
The connection between these styles dates back to the late 19th century, when Danish designers drew inspiration from Japanese craftsmanship and Zen philosophy. Over the years, both cultures continued to influence one another, eventually culminating in what we now recognize as Japandi, one of the most balanced and tranquil design styles around!
Japandi’s color story is guided by balance. Picture neutral, earthy hues borrowed from Japanese interiors, like soft beiges, warm browns, and muted grays, blended effortlessly with Scandinavian’s cooler, airy tones like soft blues and warm off-whites.
Imagine a reading nook with a soothing taupe wall with subtle texture, warm wooden accents, and off-white fabrics; sounds great, right? It’s soothing but not sleepy, almost like being in a personal meditation or yoga retreat, a space that feels grounded and airy, embracing depth and openness simultaneously.
Whether you’re looking for small changes to see how you like Japandi interior design or jump feet first into a full transformation, I’ve got some suggestions on how to begin!
Declutter Thoughtfully and Embrace Natural Textures – Japandi design embraces the idea that less is more; there’s a Marie Kondo-ness to it. Remove unnecessary clutter and keep only what serves a purpose or brings you joy. Simultaneously, add some linen cushions, wooden trays, and woven baskets to introduce a natural warmth while maintaining a minimalist aesthetic.
Stick to a Muted Color Scheme and Add a Touch of Imperfection – Incorporate earth tones and neutrals with subtle contrasts, like pairing soft beige walls with charcoal-toned furniture. Handmade ceramics, organic-shaped vases, and even slightly distressed wood pieces are perfect ways to embrace beautiful imperfections!
Mix Wood Tones and Naturally Occurring Materials – Japandi combines light and dark woods, adding depth to spaces with naturally occurring contrasting hues. You can create dynamics in your spaces without being loud or abrasive with color choices.
If you’re ready to take Japandi design to the next level and create semi-permanent installations in your home, try adding textured walls with lime wash, microcement, or plaster finishes; these impactful choices add depth without overwhelming the space. Statement lighting can also elevate the Japandi look; woven pendant lights or custom built-ins are another way to embrace the style. Try cabinetry with natural wood finishes. You want to embrace materials in their purest form.
For a true nod to Japanese architecture, you could install some Shoji-style doors to create separation while maintaining a sense of openness. Finally, opt for low, grounded furniture like lower-profile sofas, coffee tables, and beds!
I will say this: Japandi is as much about interior design as it is a way of life. It invites you to slow down, embrace nature, and find beauty in simplicity (again, we could all use more of that in our lives!)
Whether you start with a few accent pieces, redesign a room that is your personal retreat, or commit to a full Japandi transformation, this design philosophy will bring harmony, balance, and beauty into your home.
