Embracing the Japandi-Style: A Guide for Interior Designers
We’re exploring a top trend in this week’s blog, Japandi-style.
So what is Japandi style? It’s a harmonious blend of Japanese minimalism and Scandinavian functionality, and it has become a desired aesthetic in interior design int the last few years.
This hybrid style merges the simplicity of natural elements widely used in Japanese interiors coupled with the cosy and functional aspects of Scandinavian design. This results in creating spaces that are both elegant and tranquil. As interior designers helping clients achieve the Japandi look, we aim to share what is involved in understanding the key principles of both design philosophies and how to go about seamlessly integrate them into a cohesive application.
Lets begin with understanding Japandi Style
The Origins of Japandi
Japandi, is a fusion of the words and approaches of "Japanese" and "Scandi," representing a perfect marriage of Eastern and Western design traditions. The style draws from the Japanese principles of wabi-sabi, which we understand celebrates imperfection and impermanence, and Scandinavian hygge, which emphasises cosiness and well-being. This blend results in spaces that are both serene and inviting, characterised by clean lines, natural materials, and a neutral colour palette.
So what are the key Elements of Japandi Style?
Minimalism and Functionality: You may have guessed it, Japandi design emphasises simplicity and practicality. Every element in the space serves a purpose, and clutter is minimised to create a sense of calm and order. It’s a very considered way of designing and achieving an aesthetic.
Natural Materials: The materials used are very considered to. For example, wood, bamboo, paper, and natural fibres are central to Japandi interiors. These materials bring warmth and texture, grounding the space in nature emphasising the calming nature of the approach.
Neutral Colour Palette: The colour scheme typically features muted tones such as beige, grey, white, and earthy shades. This palette enhances the sense of tranquillity and simplicity, keeping the space light and fresh, great for well-being.
Craftsmanship and Quality: Both Japanese and Scandinavian design prioritise craftsmanship and quality. Handcrafted furniture and decor items are essential in achieving an authentic look, reflecting a commitment to durability and timeless beauty.
Balance and Harmony: The layout and decor in Japandi interiors are meticulously balanced, with a focus on symmetry and proportion. This balance creates a harmonious and peaceful environment. As we mentioned above it’s a very considered form and practice of design, every element is carefully considered and curated accordingly.
How to Achieve the Japandi Aesthetic
Step 1: Swot up on Japandi Principles
Before embarking on a Japandi design project, it's essential to learn about the key principles and elements of the style. Japandi interiors, highlight simplicity, draw on natural materials, and embrace a neutral colour palette. However there is more to this design principle than simply meets the eye, the style can create a calming and functional living space if approached meticulously.
Step 2: Prioritise Functionality
We love practical design approaches, from our 35+ years’ experience it’s the only way with multi-functional households and family living. Good news, Japandi design is all about functionality. Think about what your needs you have and the lifestyle you want to create in a space, that is both practical and aesthetically pleasing. Choose furniture and decor items that serve a purpose and contribute to the overall harmony of the space.
As an example, if you are living in a small property and would like to apply this aesthetic to a living area consider selecting low-profile sofas with clean lines and a wooden coffee table. If you’re limited on space perhaps opting for built-in storage solutions may help keep clutter at bay. This would go some way to starting to create a tranquil space that meets the family's needs while reflecting the Japandi aesthetic.
Step 3: Incorporate Natural Materials
Materials are key to achieving a Japandi aesthetic, natural materials to bring warmth and texture into the space. Choose light wooden furniture, bamboo accents, and natural fibre rugs. If you’d like to add a bit more depth to the scheme consider incorporating elements such as stone, ceramics, and paper to add interest.
Case Study: Natural Materials in a Japandi Bedroom
If we were approaching a Japandi-inspired bedroom, we’d look to use a light wooden bed frame, perhaps linen bedding on the white tones, and a bamboo pendant light. Opting for a real wool rug would add softness and warmth underfoot, and a few carefully selected ceramic vases would provide subtle decoration to enhance the depth of the room. The use of natural materials results in creating a cosy and harmonious environment that’s enjoyable to exist in.
Step 4: Select a Colour Palette
As we’ve discussed Japandi style is about creating a calm and grounded ambience. Therefore it makes perfect sense to embrace a neutral colour palette. This will help to maintain the serene and understated aesthetic of Japandi design. Using shades of beige, grey, white, and earthy tones create the foundations of the scheme. If you’re hoping to achieve a little more depth the room, experiment with different textures and subtle variations in colour but be careful to be true to your neutral colour palette.
Case Study: Neutral Palette in a Japandi Kitchen
If we were to designa Japandi kitchen we’d begin with understating the lighting in the space. This would give us a good guide on the tones to opt for when designing the kitchen. Typically for the desired aesthetic we’d feature light cabinets, perhaps a white marble countertop, and incorporate wooden open shelving. Although the palette would be neutral, black is a fabulous accent colour to pair with this scheme for contrast, handles for example might be a good option for this. The neutral palette creates a clean and inviting space, perfect for cooking and socialising with loved ones.
Step 5: Embrace Minimalism
Throughout this blog we’ve discussed a lot about simplicity and functionality. Therefore, it is not surprise that in order to successfully implement this design scheme we must embrace minimalism. Furniture with clean lines is a great place to start, avoiding overly ornate, dark or decorative pieces. Focus on quality over quantity, with each item contributing to the overall harmony of the space whilst fulfilling a functional purpose.
Case Study: Minimalist Japandi Home Office
Where better to start than a home office for functionality and practical furniture. Designing a Japandi style office could include a simple wooden desk, a comfortable ergonomical designed chair embracing simple lines, and a few essential accessories. Being smart with built-in shelves could provide storage for books and supplies, allowing the user to keep the workspace tidy. This minimalist approach not only creates a beautiful room but a productive and peaceful environment, aiming to improve productivity and focus.
Step 6: Incorporate Greenery
We’ve spoken a lot about the benefits of plants in our homes and Japandi design is no exception. Plants are an essential element in Japandi interiors, they encourage life and bringing nature indoors. Choosing simple, easy-to-care-for plants such as succulents, ferns, or bonsai is a create place to start. Using ceramic or wooden planters to complement the natural materials in the space adds to the aesthetics and depth of a designs scheme.
Case Study: Greenery in a Japandi Living Room
In a Japandi living room, the placing a large potted fern in one corner and a few smaller plants on shelves and side tables adds interest and a focal feature. The greenery is refreshing and encourages a connection to nature, a key aspect of Japandi design.
Step 7: Focus on Quality and Craftsmanship
We said it before and we’ll stick by it, quality over quantity. Investing in high-quality, handcrafted furniture and decor items is a long-term benefit. When searching for furniture for the home look for pieces that showcase excellent craftsmanship and timeless design, they remain relevant for years. These items will not only look beautiful but also they really will stand the test of time.
Case Study: Handcrafted Furniture in a Japandi Dining Room
Where better to have a showstopping piece of furniture than a dining room. When opting for the Japandi-style feature handcrafted wooden dining table and chairs. Embrace a simple yet elegant design that highlights the quality of the materials and craftsmanship. Be cost-effective with choosing a premium paper lantern pendant light adding a touch of Japanese influence.
To re-cap the benefits of Japandi Style
Highlight the Benefits
The style creates a calming and serene environment. It focuses on functionality and practicality, and the use of natural, sustainable materials. These elements can contribute to a healthier and more enjoyable living space.
Visually appealing
Japandi interior design include minimalism, natural materials, and a neutral colour palette. Which is enjoyable to look at as well as being functional and cost-effective.
Collaborate with Craftsmen
Local craftsmen and artisans who create high-quality, handcrafted furniture and decor items are invaluable for longevity. Ensure that you have access to unique and beautiful pieces that align with the Japandi style.
To summarise
Japandi style offers a perfect blend of Japanese minimalism and Scandinavian functionality, creating spaces that are both elegant and tranquil. As an interior designers we achieve this desired aesthetic by understanding the key principles of Japandi design and incorporating them into cohesive and harmonious interiors for you.
By prioritising functionality, incorporating natural materials, selecting a neutral colour palette, embracing minimalism, and focusing on quality and craftsmanship, you can create stunning Japandi-inspired spaces. Embrace this style and create serene and beautiful spaces within your home that reflect the essence of Japandi design.
