Japandi combines Scandinavian design and Japanese minimalism. Most people are drawn to Japandi because it’s a kind of perfect fusion between the Nordic concept of Hygge, which is a feeling of warmth and well-being in the home, and the ancient Buddhist concept of wabi-sabi which is the acceptance of imperfection.
Japanese influences are:
- Low profile furniture
- Seamless flow between indoors and outdoors spaces
- Acceptance of imperfection
- Organic material such as wooden bamboo
- Neutral yet warm colors
Whereas Scandinavian influences are:
- Furniture with uncomplicated shapes.
- Minimalist décor to allow for light circulation
- Cozy atmosphere to foster a feeling of well-being
- Use of soft and cool pastel colors
Simple Ideas to Give Your Home a Japandi Touch
1. Color Palette
Japandi style uses a cool Scandinavian palette and traditional Japanese palette which features richer, darker, earthier colors.
What about a pop of color?
If you want to spice up your Japandi interior with bright colors, tread carefully! Bright color pops are often avoided while decorating in the Japandi style. If you do decide to add a splash of color, stick to items with simple lines, patterns, and forms.
2. Go for an earthy tone
Scandinavians utilize white on their walls to maximize bright light bouncing around their homes and white walls in Japan serve as a backdrop for all the woods they use. White walls will give you a more Scandinavian feel, while dark walls will give you a more Japanese feel.
If you want to go dark, go with a more earthy subdued tone, and if you want to go white, go with a warm white that won't make your space look sterile.
3. Add some texture to the walls
Subtle lime-washed walls with sculptural use of wood can be used as a texture on the walls. Exposed concrete and wood slat walls could also be used to create architectural interest.
4. Think like a minimalist
Focus on the important things which have a purpose and let go of other things. Decluttering is important in the Japandi style. It’s QUALITY OVER QUANTITY.
5. Use natural, organic materials
The use of natural materials is imperative. Bamboo, terracotta pots, wooden stools, rattan, wool linen, paper, and hemp are all great materials to integrate into your Japandi interior style.
6. Choose low profile furniture
Being close to earth inspires peace and serenity and will provide a cozy and comfortable feeling. When picking pieces for your space, opt for pieces with clean lines possibly made out of wood. Stay away from overly-embellished pieces.
7. The indoor-outdoor connection
Nature is a central element in both cultures. For example, you can connect your terrace and veranda with a sliding glass door. Try to create harmony between outdoor and indoor spaces. If you live in a house without any outdoor space, try to integrate indoor plants but just don’t go overboard – bonsai and bamboo plants could be used.
8. Add a hint of pattern
You can incorporate patterns into your décor through textiles and artwork. Patterns could also be introduced via wallpapers. Here are some of the most popular traditional Japanese patterns that you could integrate into your Japandi room:
- Uroko (Scales)
- Kōjitsunagi (Interlaced Kō Characters)
- Asanoha (Hemp Leaves)
- Yabane / Yagasuri (Arrow Feather)
- Same Komon
Here are some of the important points to note when going for a Japandi interior design:
- Keep it simple in terms of design and shape
- Quality over quantity
- Embrace imperfection
- Simple furnishings
- Use solid fabrics or minimal pattern
Have a fun time while giving your home a Japandi touch!