Design Elements of the Japandi Style
Sometimes two styles are better than one to create a perfect balance. An example of a hybrid style is Japandi – the fusion of the timeless elegance of Japanese aesthetics and the modern Scandinavian style. Learn about the color palette, furniture, materials, and other design elements of the Japandi Style in this D.Signers video:
Both Japanese and Scandinavian styles focus on the minimalist approach. The magic happens when the design principles of wabi-sabi (the search for beauty in imperfection, rustic elegance and craftsmanship) are combined with the serene appearance of of the Scandinavian style.
Color Palette
While Scandinavian design uses white and neutral tones, Japanese design favors darker and earthy tones inspired by nature. Japandi combines both. Contrast is essential for creating interesting spaces. Japandi interiors can have Japanese-inspired darker accents like charcoal or a dark earthy tone to create contrast. Accents can also include pastels and muted colors found in the Scandinavian style like pastel pinks, greens and blues or richer background colors found in the Japanese style. Incorporate color into the space through cushions, artwork, rocks or decorative accents, but always without breaking the minimalist harmony of the design.
Nature
Both Japanese and Scandinavian styles have a strong connection with nature. Bringing greenery into the interior is crucial for Japandi, but Japandi prefers quality over quantity. One or two plants that express the true beauty and grandiosity of Mother Earth is enough. Choose plants with expressive forms and elegant leaves that highlight the beauty of nature under the concept of simplicity.
Furniture
Japanese and Scandinavian furniture have clean lines and are known for their functionality; however, Scandinavian furniture is usually light in color and Japanese furniture often has darker tones and more elegant shapes. A Japandi space incorporates a mix of light and dark woods with black hues and includes both elegant and relaxed pieces. Keep furniture like benches, armchairs, beds and coffee tables lower to the floor. Leave plenty of open space.
Accessories
When accessorizing in Japandi, the concept is “less is more”. The aesthetic includes only a few – but authentic and functional – decorative pieces. Use Scandinavian accents like soft carpets, cushions and blankets and Japanese accents like vases or trays. Japandi rooms combine functionality and comfort but maintain a sense of simplicity and minimalism.
Natural Materials
Look for natural materials and craftsmanship. The Japanese ter “wabi-sabi” refers to the principles of finding beauty in imperfect and humble things. Japandi works masterfully on this concept using crafstmanship. Choose elements in simple and natural materials full of high quality like linen, jute, concrete, wood, rattan, bamboo, cork or terra cotta. Japandi seeks beauty in simple and raw things, and these elements are a wonderful way to soften and humanize the space with charm and warmth.
Keep It Simple
The Japanese style comes from a Japanese theory that makes simplicity and order a lifestyle. Spaces should be uncluttered and airy, allowing for a peaceful and relaxing flow. The key is quality, not quantity. Keep decor items to a minimum and let the natural beauty, high quality and tranquil palette of a few pieces shine for themselves.
Essentials
What is superfluous must be eliminated to create a vital and functional space. Only the essentials in an orderly way, without excess, can create a true relaxed environment. Let the beauty of simplicity shine.
