Japandi is a sleek, hybrid trend that merges the homey, cosy feeling of Scandinavian design with timeless silhouettes of Japanese aesthetics.
The look exudes function and form with touches of wabi-sabi infused imperfection. You may wonder why these two major design movements work together so effortlessly. It is simply because they share a mutual appreciation for simplicity and minimalism.
Japandi draws on finding beauty in the imperfect and creating an atmosphere of warmth, and comfort and, hygge style. The decor revolves around a contrasted minimal approach, echoing clean lines and uncluttered spaces while boasting flawless craftsmanship. Japanese and Scandi elements both value a less is more lifestyle.
The elements found in japandi make it a great green decor style, championing natural materials and favouring eco-friendly aesthetics. Muted colours with pops of contrasts blend with beautiful craftsmanship. Highly functional and aesthetically pleasing, this modern and sustainable design approach is ever-growing trend in interior design.
Japandi is a true hybrid of east and west. Take the Archipelago House for visual inspiration on japandi, designed to represent both cultural aesthetics of precise craft, natural resources and handmade ceramics.
The homes main light source is a bespoke cone-shaped lantern designed in washi paper by Japan's Kojima Shouten. They have been manufacturing lanterns for over 230 years. Elements like these bring a soft structural element, diffusing light through semi translucent paper. The pale hues throughout the room meticulously compliment the light wood furniture carefully curated home accessories.
At the heart of japandi is the relationship of influence between Denmark and Japan that began almost 150 years ago when Danish creatives started travelling to Japan searching for new inspiration. When not much travelling was familiar, some of the first Westerners visited the nation, and deep love was found and shared for the artisans, the craftsmanship, and the natural elements. The movement is what serves as japandi's cultural ties.
The BBC speaks on Danish designer Lars Veien, who first visited Japan in 1995, also believes the joint focus on craft is key. “Japan still has the most amazing, best-preserved craftsmanship and still honours traditions. They’re perfectionists in so many ways. When I bring my designs to a Japanese client, there is the perfect match between the simple idea of form and the execution of the craftsmanship.”
"In Japan and Scandinavia, there’s that appreciation of things that are made by hand, made with care, and made to last" – Nina Tolstrup
The flow and form are the primary pillars of the japandi interior trend. Sleek dark-stained wood and bamboo furniture are frequently favoured in japandi furniture. An open-plan design also draws on hygge’s soft textured touches and rustic woods for the minimal and cosy feel with some cleverly placed houseplants.
Wabi-Sabi embraces the imperfect, which means it allows room for a bit of roughness around the edges in interior design. This zen-influenced aesthetic philosophy radiates with the Scandinavian approach giving clean lines, warmth, functionality, and flawless craftsmanship. Read more about the aesthetic in the ‘What Is’ Wabi-Sabi article.
Japandi keeps the home simple, functional and can be sustainable. This hybrid trend can easily be incorporated. Simply decluttering your home will give a more minimal feel, and if you can add hints of texture from cushions and covers, throws, this is undoubtedly an easy start to achieving japandi. Learn more about this on our "5 Steps For Achieving Japandi" guide.
Japandi is light and airy and creates a sense of peace and tranquillity, working well in all surroundings. It marries the best of both worlds, the softness and warmth of Scandinavian design and the elegant nature of Japanese homes. However, japandi has its own unique vibe. To apply this particular decor in your home, explore our simple suggestions:
· Follow minimalist design principles
· Pay homage to Scandinavian design
· Explore Japanese philosophy
· Incorporate low furniture and nature-inspired pieces
· Embrace simple, clean lines
· Be clutter-free in all spaces
· Invest in meticulously curated furniture
· Use warm and natural textures for interior decor
· Add botanical elements like potted plants or wall decor
· Contrast colours with whites, earthy tones, and modern greys
· Focus on raw, and sustainable and natural materials
· Find one or two eye-catching centrepieces
· Create a balance of lighting
· Find beauty in the imperfection