How to use the Japandi design trend in the home

What is Japandi style?


Simply put, Japandi style is a blend of two key design inspirations: Scandinavian and Japanese. It combines the warm and comforting hygge vibes of Scandinavia with the artistic elegance of wabi-sabi (translating as ‘finding beauty in imperfection’).

In practical terms, Japandi style sees interiors being influenced by functional, modern lines, mixed with nature-inspired tones with an aim to promote comfort and simplicity, bringing us closer to nature, offering a contemporary and welcoming look for the home.

We can create the Japandi style with four key principles:

Natural colour palettes


Both Japanese and Scandinavian design rely heavily on biophilia – inspiration from our natural world. Just as a walk in the woods encourages us to step back and relax, so does Japandi design. That’s why it’s no surprise to see natural colour palettes taken from outdoor environments in Japandi interiors. 

Expect a range of neutral hues from beige and white to stone, earthy greens and light browns. Both cultures place huge value in handcrafted objects rather than mass-produced furniture manufactured by technology. As such, unfinished wood is a prominent feature in this simple design.

Mixing woods


The beauty of blending two distinct cultures is the mixture of organic materials. When it comes to wood materials, Japandi doesn’t discriminate – expect to see bamboo, cedar, oak, and pine. The look also benefits from using both soft and hard woods.

Soft woods are derived from cone-bearing trees such as pine, redwood, and fir. Hard woods come from broad-leaved trees that produce fruits and nuts, such as oak, beech and mahogany. 

Minimalist accessories


Japandi is all about a stress-free life – and a stress-free life means no clutter. Minimalist accessories are small, space-saving, and unassuming: following the functional approach of the Scandinavian style.

Textures and lighting


The cosy feel of Scandinavia and the artistic patterns of Japan make for a broad range of textures. Invest in tactile materials that delight the senses, from soft and welcoming rugs and cushions to eye-catching bamboo lampshades.

Low-key lighting is another cornerstone of Japandi design. You can embrace natural light with the clean lines of window frames and blinds or invest in subtle lamps for winding down. 

Japandi style: the takeaways


Blending function and comfort, the Japandi home trend is built to last – focusing on everlasting natural materials rather than throwaway pieces. With neutral, biophilic tones, it can be applied to every room in the home for a comforting and organic feel.

Inspired? Share your Japandi interior with us on Instagram by tagging @avant_homes.