When it comes to integrating Japandi style into your home, here are some tips to designing a cozy, elegant and dynamic home.
What is Japandi
Tranquil, simplistic and nature-inspired - Japandi is a blend of two of the most beloved design styles: Japanese and Scandinavian. The style’s origins trace back to the mid 1800s, when travel and trade between the two countries increased.
The similarities in design interested both Japanese and Scandinavian designers, leading to a blend of aesthetics over time. Beloved for its focus on calm simplicity, this design trend has continued to rise in popularity.
What is the Japanese Design Aesthetic?
The Japanese design aesthetic is well regarded for its focus on earthy, nature-inspired elegance and minimalism. Influenced by the ancient philosophy wabi sabi, it values simplicity, imperfect beauty, and slow-living. When used in design, you will often see a focus on sleek elegance and functional design, such as simple furniture and blank walls.
- Clean lines
- Earthy tones
- Minimal Styling
- Organic and natural materials
- Functional decor
What is the Scandinavian Design Aesthetic?
The Scandinavian design aesthetic has an emphasis on playful coziness. With rounded edges, plush pillows, and soft blankets, a sense of lived-in warmth comes first and foremost. Influenced by the Scandinavian practice of hygge, Scandinavian interiors evoke a serene sense of contentment and welcoming energy that embraces comfort and wellbeing, while still feeling uncluttered and polished.
- A focus on elegant comfort
- Light, neutral color palette
- Uncluttered spaces
- Natural materials
- Clean lines
Japandi style finds the common ground between these two aesthetics. Both Scandinavian and Japanese styles have an emphasis on nature, from their neutral colors and organic materials, to simplistic lines and imperfect beauty. At the fusion of art, comfort, and simplicity, comes Japandi.
Elements of Japandi Style
Neutral Colors: Japandi style tends to pare down the palette to a base of earthy neutrals, like tans and browns with a pop of contrasting color, like green or stone. You will often see a beige base with black accents for a striking, natural image. This neutral palette does not need to be just walls and floors, but should extend into your furniture and accessories as well.
Nature-Inspired: In the tones, designs, and lines of your furnishings, look for nature-inspired pieces. Whether it is a rug emulating the feeling of the ocean or a wallpaper that mirrors stone or trees, a nature-inspired aesthetic evokes a calm and grounded atmosphere.
Organic Materials: Natural materials, like wood, bamboo, or hemp, are popular in Japandi style. Not only are they more sustainable, they are naturally striking and harmonious with many furniture pieces and accessories. Layer in different materials and finishes for a textured look, and add in pillows and blankets for comfort.
Clean Lines: Japandi focuses on a base of clean lines and defined shapes. This lets the natural textures and organic elements shine. But this doesn’t mean you should avoid curves. Round edges, curved shapes, and geometric forms create a richness and warmth in design.
Bright & Open: Do not overwhelm your space with bulky furniture and decor. Japandi works best in spaces that are allowed to breathe and has an emphasis on minimalism. Keep it bright and open, focus on natural light and let the simple elegance of your design take center stage.
How to Style: Japandi Interior Design Tips
- Use natural woods and organic materials in your furnishings, from your tables and chairs, to your sideboards and accents. Wood, rattan, bamboo, cotton, hemp, and jute are a key component of Japandi style. You can even integrate natural stones, clay, or terra cotta for a pop of visual interest.
- Soften hard edges with cushions. Don’t forget the cozy and lived-in aspect of this aesthetic. Add cushions, blankets, and thick rugs to your spaces for warmth and comfort.
- Use functional accessories, rather than just decorative ones. Earthy-toned vases or mugs can hold accents of greenery and act to bring nature indoors, while books or teapots feel intentional and blended.
- Enhance the natural light of your space, rather than blocking it. Keep large furniture or obstructions away from windows, and don’t be afraid to open windows or doors for a blending of outdoor and indoor harmony.
- Less is more. Focus on functional pieces that serve multiple purposes, and make sure everything has a place for a serene sense of order. Minimalism and zero clutter is at the core of Japandi style.
- Add interest with textures and patterns. From a subtly patterned rug to an elegant lightshade, the use of indulgent textures help your style feel welcoming and not cold.
- Add contrast with subtle colors. While most of the focus of your space will be in the beige, tans, and browns of wood or bamboo, adding accents of pearl gray, stone, black, soft pink, or sky blue can enhance a sense of cozy comfort.
Shop Japandi Style Rugs at Jaipur Living
Make your home a serene sanctuary evoking sophistication and comfort with Japandi. From the effortless texture and natural appeal of jute to the timeless appeal and durability of cotton, shop our nature-inspired rugs at Jaipur Living.
