Warmth, comfort, and a simplicity that embraces nature. These elements are at the heart of Japanese and Scandinavian design. Japandi design is the name that the design world has given the fusion of these two tranquil styles.
Japandi design brings together Scandinavian functionality and Japanese minimalism. Its blend of function and form features clean lines, bright spaces, and light colours.
The notion of Scandinavian hygge has become increasingly popular in North America. In fact, recently, when the contestants on Jeopardy were given the answer, “The Danish concept comparable to coziness has been a U.S. trend; it includes good food, coffee & a warm place.”, Canadian and current champion, Mattea Roach correctly answered, “What is hygge?” 🙂
If you’re not familiar with the term, it’s the concept of making your home your sanctuary. Your surroundings are soothing and fill your mind and soul with a sense of calm. It’s like walking into the comfort of a spa when you step through the front door.
To create this look, focus on natural materials such as wood grain or bamboo to bring nature’s unvarnished simplicity into your home. Use muted colours such as pale greens and warm greyish-browns, and accent pieces like potted plants and branches to provide a sense of the outdoors.
To this hygge-inspired palette, now add the Japanese sensibility of beauty in imperfection, called wabi-sabi. This is the essence of Japandi design: minimalism and comfort combined. The result is an enduring style that is sophisticated and easy-going.
And where Japanese and Scandinavian designs diverge, it actually makes them complementary. Sleek Japanese interiors are known for their rich, yet neutral, colours and add warmth to the more the rustic and stark style of Scandinavian interiors.
The richness of Japandi design comes from the inherent beauty of well-crafted, quality handmade furnishings created to endure the test of time. Japanese design venerates sustainability and its furnishings often enhance the natural features of wood grain.
Japandi design is an antidote to throw-away culture. It answers the call for a forward-looking aesthetic that embraces a more sustainable relationship with planet Earth.
Clearing the home of clutter is also a key feature of Japandi design. Clean lines and open spaces make for calming and soothing interiors. For active households that struggle with keeping a minimalist style, boxes and containers made of natural materials are an elegant solution for storing frequently used items. Folding floor screens are another way to keep clutter out of sight.
Although Japanese and Scandinavian décor are not new, the combination of both styles as an emerging trend is taking firm root in the world of interior design.
Contact us today to request a consultation about how you can implement Japandi design in your home.
