5 Ways to Turn Your Home Into a Japandi Oasis
You’ve probably seen the Japandi style around, especially lately since it has become one of the most popular interior design trends right now. Totaling over 56 million mentions across Instagram and TikTok alone! So, what is Japandi design? It is the blend of two distinct design styles—Japanese and Scandinavian design, so this style still feels familiar, yet distinct. This merged style is known for having neutral colors, natural materials, and a minimal appearance—balancing the elegance of Japanese design with the coziness of Scandinavian style.
This design aesthetic is highly influenced by two practices that derive from both cultures—one being the ancient Japanese philosophers of Wabi-Sabi, (the appreciation of perfection in imperfection) a way of life which values slow-living, contentment, and simplicity. Japandi has also been molded by the Scandinavian practice of hygge, which embraces comfort, coziness, and well-being. Often times, this can translate to utilizing rustic woods, neutrals, and simple layouts to bring earthiness to a space. While the two countries are a great distance apart, they are similar in terms of creating interiors that have the foundational elements of simplicity, comfort, and intentionality. In this post, we’re going to illustrate the five ways you can easily turn your home into a Japandi paradise!
1. Earthy Tones
To fully embody Japandi design throughout your home it will be paramount to have a collection of muted tones. No color should be too dominant or distracting. The ideal hues for this design style include beige, sand, and cream because these tones help cultivate a calm and open space that allows your mind and body to unwind and recharge. If you are interested in adding some vibrancy throughout the space you can add selective color. Muted pinks, blues, and greens can all be used to help accent spaces and will complement the natural materials throughout. Another way that you can play with a bit more variety in the space is to introduce contrast. Since there are usually no dominant colors the use of high contrast will be apparent. This can be done by selecting key accessory items such as vases or candles that are darker in tone and this will create a clear distinction between the lighter warm hues and the darker tones in the space.
2. Natural Materials
The epitome of Japandi design is to select not only natural materials, but to make choices that are sustainable and to showcase this value throughout the entire design process. This style is rooted in having a deep honor and connection to nature, so it is ideal to keep sustainability in the process. This can be done by using natural materials, reusing, or repurposing materials as well. Japandi furniture is typically long lasting and has a true artisan feel, while being modest and comfortable. Since the furniture is meant to last a lifetime, this is also another way that the Japandi design practices sustainability. Since the furniture relies on artisans, the handmade items help give the space an organic and comforting experience. Some of the materials that are used include clay, glass, wood, and stone to name a few.
3. Layering Textures
Textures can really go a long way in a home! Adding multiple textures and learning how to layer them on appropriately can help enhance your home to feel warm and inviting. Scandinavian design gets its cozy feel from soft blankets and pillows, and Japanese design makes the most of the natural materials, like wood and stone. Ways to achieve this feel is by incorporating lots of blankets in a space where people will be relaxing, along with adding plush pillows as well. The types of textures that can be used to achieve this style assortment include light-colored natural fibers and sustainable materials such as rattan, bamboo, cotton, hemp, and wool. To add a layer of visual interest you can include some metal as well. Remember that it’s okay to mix and match. You can do this for both textures and materials, however, try to stay within a similar palette for colors, especially with wood or stained wood.
Using multiple types of textures in a home can be a great way to add warmth and interest. Invest in high quality cushions, curtains, throws, and tableware. Indulgent textures will help create a coziness and the patterns will add vibrancy. Another item that is a must for creating a Japandi oasis is having a large, subtly patterned rug that is made from natural materials. By incorporating multiple layers within the room this will help the space feel authentically Japandi. Take time to layer solid forms and soft textiles, along with layering tones as well, the result will be similar to a cozy forest.
4. Connection to Nature
One of the core principles of Japandi style is the connection to nature. Plants are a crucial element in this type of design because they instill the feeling of being grounded in your home. By incorporating plants all throughout your home this not only improves the air quality but they are a natural accessory and overall, a great way to bring the outdoors in. Another way to create a home that has a closer connection to nature is by incorporating the beauty of the outdoors inside your home. This can be done by embracing lots of natural light through using expansive windows and beaming skylights. Lighting within the home should be low-key and rooms should be softly lit to encourage rest and relaxation.
5. Design with Purpose
The foundation of Japandi design is to create a space that promotes peace and rest. It is key to eliminate distractions from all areas. This can be done by exercising the “less is more” mindset. Often, we hold onto unnecessary objects that end up cluttering the space in our homes and in our minds. That is exactly why Japandi design focuses on having a purpose behind each design element—to create a life that is full of intention. For both Scandinavian and Japanese design, a key principle is to focus on only what you need and eliminate the rest. With having minimal accessories, you can invest in a few pieces that are higher quality products that you love. This creates a harmonious blend of functionality and style, resulting in an atmosphere that is tranquil and purposeful. Ultimately, the idea is that owning less can lead towards having more time focus on the important aspects of your life.
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