What is Japandi Style?
Japandi is a design combination of two aesthetics: Japanese and Scandinavian decoration. It is a minimalist, yet warm and balanced way of decorating that emphasizes simplicity, natural texture and the quality of materials.
It combines the clean, bright and functional style of Scandinavian spaces with the harmony, naturalness and philosophy of balance that characterizes traditional Japanese art and architecture.
The main features of Japandi
The main “touches” that make a Japandi space include:
Minimal design
We choose simple lines, without excessive decorations or complicated shapes. The space should breathe, not be overloaded.
Neutral colors + natural shades
The palette is based on earthy shades, such as white, cream, beige and gray, but also deeper neutral colors such as dark gray, brown or black for contrasts.
Natural materials and textures
Wood (often light-toned), stone, bamboo, rattan, linen and wool fabrics , textures with a natural character, are used. These add warmth and texture to a space that is minimal but not "cold".
Low-profile furniture and clean forms
Sofas , dining tables , chests of drawers ... All with clean lines, low height when possible, without complex decorative elements or bold figures.
The Wabi-Sabi philosophy / The acceptance of imperfection
Things like handmade objects, natural-looking surfaces, or minor imperfections are acceptable. Beauty is sought in the sense of calm, simplicity, and natural wear and tear.
Simplicity and functionality
The objects we place in the space are not only decorative, they also have a practical role. Functionality coexists with aesthetics.
Focus on light and space
Japandi spaces often "work" with natural light, large surfaces that reflect light, and use light shades to make the space appear brighter and more comfortable.
How to create a space with a Japandi aesthetic
If you want to transform a space in your home ( living room , bedroom , or dining room ), follow a few steps:
1. Clearing the clutter
Remove unnecessary decorations , items that are not used frequently, to give the space room to breathe.
2. Choosing a color palette
Start with neutral, light tones (white, beige, cream). Then, add darker “touches” with fabrics , accessories or small objects (black, dark gray, brown), without losing the harmonious balance.
3. Furniture and structural elements
Opt for natural wood furniture with a matte finish and clean lines. Low-height furniture and large openings create a sense of unity and harmony.
4. Textures and natural materials in accessories
Use fabric covers made of linen or cotton, add rugs with natural fibers (e.g. jute or wool), decorative objects made of stone or ceramics with a handmade look.
5. Plants and natural elements
Plants should not be missing. With one or two well-chosen indoor plants , you bring a natural feel to the space. At the same time, we can choose bamboo accessories, rattan baskets or handmade decorative objects.
6. Lighting
Prefer natural lighting as much as possible. Large curtains , open windows. For artificial lighting, choose lighting fixtures with clean lines and materials such as wood, stone or metal in neutral tones.
Why Japandi is relevant today
There are several reasons why Japandi has become so popular:
- It is ideal for smaller spaces where we want a clean aesthetic without overloading.
- It combines functionality with beauty. It reminds us that we don't need to "see" many things to feel beautiful.
- It offers calm and balance to the home, something especially important in times when we want simplicity and relaxation.
- It adopts the idea of sustainable design, using natural materials and investing in quality instead of quantity.