Japandi, as a home decor style, aims to create a relaxing, soothing and calming space with minimal style and maximum sophistication.
So, you may be wondering, what is Japan Day style? Simply put, it's a seamless fusion of Japanese and Scandinavian decor, with a completely neutral color palette inspired by nature, and layered wood tones and natural textures to create a cozy atmosphere. It combines the best parts of everything: exudation, engaging connections with people. outdoors. The result is a simple, warm, and undeniably peaceful atmosphere.
If you're familiar with Japandi's many design rules and ready to consider some Japandi-style decorating ideas, we (and our expert interior designers) offer a little inspiration. let's.
6 Japan Day decoration ideas to bring calm to your home
(Image credit: Neptune)
This best-of-both-worlds aesthetic has captured the hearts of many design enthusiasts. With everyone looking for a little more rest and respite at home, Japandi offers the perfect solution for those who value understated elegance, functionality and minimalism.
“The spirit of Japandi requires that every item in the home combines form and function,” explains Hovia's head of design, Catherine Jacob. “The key is to choose pieces that serve a purpose and bring joy and calm. Choose natural materials like wood or bamboo to add warmth, and keep decorations to a minimum,” she suggests.
With the shift towards warmer colors occurring in 2024, Japandi brings a cozy Scandinavian (Hygge, to be exact) balance to the more sophisticated nature of Japanese design. Although functional, it has a very natural and beautiful atmosphere, always connecting you with nature.
Here we share our favorite tips for making your home look and feel more Japanese.
1. Look to nature to shape your color palette
(Image credit: LAYERED Interior)
In Japandi's décor, a carefully selected color palette of calming neutrals, including soothing earth tones, soft grays, browns, hints of black, and warm off-whites, provides a backdrop to the tranquil environment. It is forming. Combining these hues with natural materials such as wood, bamboo, and stone creates a seamless connection with nature and creates an overall zen-like atmosphere.
“When decorating with the Japandi aesthetic in mind, it is important to consider the color palette of the items you use,” advises Luis Carmona of VERDE Interior Design. “A neutral color palette is synonymous with Japan Dee design, enveloping a space with an atmosphere of zen and tranquility. Often, the colors used are those found in nature, with whites, creams, and light-colored woods. , gray-blue and even moss-green are used.”
Helen Shaw, director of marketing at Benjamin Moore, agrees. “People often choose Japandi-inspired decor in their homes because of its calming properties.Colors such as sage green, pale pink, and soft gray are inspired by nature. Perfect for a dining room that evokes an acquired look,” she advises. “These calming hues pair beautifully with natural materials such as rattan, wood and linen to add softness and enhance a peaceful atmosphere.”
helen shaw
Social link navigation
Benjamin Moore, Color Expert and International Marketing Director
Helen Shaw is a color expert and Director of Marketing (International) at Benjamin Moore. Helen and her husband Craig were also the founders of Shaw Paints, which was acquired by Benjamin Moore in 2020.
2. Blend wood tones with stone, rattan, and textile materials
(Image credit: Emily Lauren Interiors)
Achieving a blend of materials is key to Japandi decorating, and the same goes for decorating with neutral colors. When choosing furniture, decor, and accessories, incorporate textures and material combinations found in nature. For example, warm wood tones, the organic feel of textiles, natural stone, and rattan. The photo above is in Japandi's bathroom.
“Japandi is truly one of my favorite aesthetic concepts! I love how elements of Japanese wabi-sabi are perfectly combined with Scandinavian simplicity,” says interior designer Kathy Kuo. “Japanese and Scandinavian design sensibilities both draw heavily from the beauty of nature, so if you want to incorporate a Japandi vibe into your home, consider using materials that feature reclaimed wood, natural stone, and earthy color palettes. Look for decorations and furniture.”
“Handcrafted textiles and fabrics that feature organic textures also work well with the Japandi aesthetic. Shibori patterns, raw silk, chunk knits, shearlings, etc. all come together in unexpected ways,” says Kathy. I'll add.
Cathy Kuo
Social link navigation
Interior Designer, CEO Kathy Kuo Home
Kathy Kuo is a renowned interior designer and international leading expert on home and lifestyle spaces. She has over 20 years of experience in the design industry.
(Image credit: Neptune)
“When choosing decorative items for your space, choose items with a minimalist design and made from natural materials,” suggests Luis Carmona. “Sophisticated wooden photo frames, glass vases, and clay serving trays can all be used to effectively decorate a space without destroying the Japandi look and feel.”
“The materials used for decoration play an essential role in the overall aesthetic of the space. Wood, glass, linen, and stone are all perfect for this type of space while promoting sustainable design.”
Luis Carmona
Social link navigation
VERDE Interior Design Owner/Interior Designer
Luis Carmona is the owner and lead designer of VERDE Interior Design. With nearly 20 years of experience in creative fields (interior design, advertising, and marketing), Carmona has combined his many passions into his one design studio, serving commercial and residential clients in both Houston and Dallas. We offer
3. Focus on texture with paneled or plastered walls
(Image credit: L. Ercolani)
Texture plays a vital role in Japandi interiors. Use details like wall panels and plastered walls to introduce texture into the space. These subtle yet impactful details add depth and character to your space, creating a comfortable feel.
Lucy Currell, creative director at Studio Iro, suggests introducing a textured wall finish such as Clayworks or Tadelakt, or simply opting for a matte finish paint. “Mix and match a variety of woods for an eclectic, natural feel, pairing warm cherry or London plain with light oak on both walls and furniture. Also, add texture with heavy humps or large weaves. ,” she suggests. “Finally, layer various rugs to create a bohemian feel that provides more surface area and anchors the space.”
“Merge the totally clean and practical feel of Scandinavian design with the minimalist impression and natural beauty of Japanese aesthetics,” said Artem Kropovinsky, designer and founder of Arsight. “Textures highlight natural elements and simplicity, making the space feel warm and authentic.”
Artem Kropovinsky
Social link navigation
Interior designer and founder of Arsight
Based in New York, Arsight's founder, Artem Kropovinsky, has 10 years of extensive global design experience. Prioritizing minimalism, sustainability, and authenticity, Artem works on projects in the United States and around the world with his team of experts.
4. Be bold with oversized yet minimal art.
(Image provided by Studio Duggan)
Contrary to the belief that minimalism equals almost nothing (or perhaps small-scale) art, Japandi Design welcomes that statement. However, the key to getting it right is to focus on balance rather than stark contrast. Consider oversized yet minimalistic artwork for a strong visual impact.
Japandi style is all about mixing things up. Essentially, this is two aesthetics combined into one, so try a little juxtaposition in your artwork. Consider oversized yet minimalistic pieces of art that feature simple lines, abstract shapes, or nods to nature and make a strong visual impact.
Artem Kropovinsky advises sticking to a palette supported by nature to maintain a calm atmosphere. “Choose grays, wood tones, and warm whites for a balanced, calm, and simple essence of style.”
5. Plants, plants, and more plants
(Image credit: Holmes Bespoke x Naturalmat)
The outdoors plays an important role in Japandi's design. From delicate bonsai to lush potted houseplants, plants are a great way to bring nature indoors and create a sense of peace. It can also brighten a space, purify the air, and bring a pop of green amidst neutral tones.
“The use of natural elements such as plumbing, plants and wood creates a bridge between the outdoors and indoors, further emphasizing the Japandi design character,” says Luisa Carmona of VERDE. say. “This also reflects aspects of JAPANDI’s biophilic design, which focuses on bringing the outdoors in.”
“Incorporate plants and greenery to create a sense of life and nature in your interiors,” adds Artem. “In both Japanese and Scandinavian design, they love their connection to the outdoors. For planters, choose the simplest, sculptural shapes that are in keeping with your minimalist style.”
6. Remember, in Japandi style, less is more
(Image credit: A. Naber Design)
Resist the temptation to over-decorate. Incorporate simplicity into both your furniture and décor, allowing each piece to breathe and stand on its own. Japandi style is about consciously organizing your space to create a mindful and tranquil living environment.
“To create the Japandi aesthetic, we must have the motto that less is more,” says Luisa Carmona. “Japandi is a combination of Scandinavian and Japanese-inspired designs, both of which are known for their clean lines, minimalist furniture designs, and use of a no-frills policy when it comes to decor.”
The lack of clutter and negative spaces creates a tranquil atmosphere that resonates with the essence of both Japanese and Scandinavian design philosophies.
“Less is always more,” says Jennifer Welt, founder and CEO of Blythe Interiors. “The trend is to embrace simple, modern designs with minimal decoration and natural elements. More and more people are drawn to Japandi's elegant simplicity and calming atmosphere.”
norfolk island pine plants
Swingle Floor Bean Bag & Lounger
Birling Side Table – Travertine
FAQ
Is wabi-sabi the same in Japan?
Japandi design style and Wabi-Sabi design share a common emphasis on simplicity, nature, and a sense of harmony, but their expressions are different. Wabi-sabi is deeply rooted in traditional Japanese aesthetics, celebrating imperfection, impermanence, and the beauty of patina. Japandi, on the other hand, combines Scandinavian design principles to emphasize a more modern, streamlined aesthetic.
In the pursuit of the perfect Japandi, it's important to understand that this is more of a lifestyle choice than a pure aesthetic. To truly embrace Japandi vibes in your home, embrace the idea that “less is more” by focusing on storage, organization, and decluttering spaces to achieve a minimalist, calming look. is needed.
Loved by homeowners and interior designers alike, this is a home decor style that will never go out of style. Peaceful and serene home design never goes out of style. If you love the Japandi style and want to make some changes to your home, here are some tips that are a surefire way to create a more welcoming home.