The term ‘Japandi’ may raise a few eyebrows, but the concept behind it is simple—it takes the best of Japanese and Scandinavian design, and seamlessly melds the two together. The latest minimalist trend in the interiors world, Japandi is poised at the juncture between wabi-sabi (the Japanese concept of imperfection being beautiful) and hygge (the Danish term that describes a mood of cosiness).
From Japanese design comes a focus on functionality, while the Scandinavian way calls for the warmth of a lighter colour palette. While these two design philosophies originate from entirely different parts of the world, a mutual love for clean lines, understated elegance and masterful craftsmanship intuitively bring them together.
As welcoming as it is sleek, the Japandi style is one that is simple and uncluttered. Neutral colours and earthy tones make for an inviting space, while careful details and the use of texture serve to create visual interest. As common in both Japanese and Scandinavian design, focus is placed on bringing nature into the home, so natural materials like wood, rattan and linen are commonly utilised. Indoor greenery is abundant, and the physical space—usually open and airy—is typically awash with natural light.
Outside the world of interior design, Japandi invites us to adopt a quieter lifestyle where less is often better. It calls for thoughtful habits, a connectedness with nature and an appreciation for the little things. If you are looking to embrace your inner minimalist, you’ve come to the right place. Below, find our recommendations for ways to incorporate the serene Japanese-Scandinavian look into your home.
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Elegant clean lines: Coco Chair from Second Charm
Featuring prominently in both Japanese and Scandinavian interior design, simple and elegant lines are a defining characteristic of Japandi furniture, decor and architecture.
With clean rounded edges and a classic rattan weave back, this chair is a versatile piece that adds charm to any room.
$250, available at Second Charm
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Elegant clean lines: Dew Mirror from Emko
To accommodate a streamlined, minimalist look with little clutter, functionality is important—so any piece of furniture that can double as storage is helpful.
Inspired by delicate dewdrops, these mirrors are adorned with droplet details that can be used to hold light jewellery while also adding some unique visual flair.
£279, available at Japandi Homes
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Neutral colours: Ceres Desert Beige Rug from Crate & Barrel
To achieve the Japandi look, keep to a palette of neutral colours. A base of off-whites, layered with earthy tones, will take you there. For a slight pop of colour, make use of pale greens, muted ochres and subdued shades found in nature.
This rug, made from variegated yarns in a range of versatile neutrals, adds a dose of warmth to the room while still maintaining the subtle Japandi palette.
$1,299, available at Crate & Barrel
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Neutral colours: Marble and Wood Coasters from Island Living
Placing mango wood and marble side by side, these chic coasters contrast the warm hues and cool tones of the two materials.
$29 for a set of four, available at Island Living
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Neutral colours: Ema Ceramic Small White Vase from Crate & Barrel
Reminiscent of the moon, the stippled finish of this vase adds gorgeous texture to its surface. The delicate depressions reveal the earthenware and layered glaze below, creating a speckle of muted orange and glossy black.
$62.95, available at Crate & Barrel
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Natural materials: Biennale Stool from Nikari
One of the defining concepts of Japandi living is the idea of bringing the outdoors in. Natural materials are commonly seen, and wood is an essential element to have in a home.
Functioning as both a seat and a side table, this stool highlights the natural beauty of wood. Each piece, with its own distinctive grain, annual rings and cracks, is completely unique.
$1,080, available at Finnish Design Shop
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Natural materials: Hashira Floor Lamp from Menu
While wood tends to be the most heavily used, natural materials also extend to fabrics like linen and cotton, and elements like bamboo and rattan.
A perfect blend of Japanese and Scandinavian design, this understated lamp is a modern interpretation of a traditional Japanese rice paper lantern created by Kasper Rønn and Jonas Bjerre-Poulsen. When lit, the lamp’s linen shade softens the light into a warm, ambient glow.
$853, available at Finnish Design Shop
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Natural materials: Speckle Hanging Pot from Ferm Living
Beyond making use of natural materials, another great way of bringing nature into the home is to simply introduce a spot of greenery.
This hanging pot features speckled stoneware suspended from twisted cotton ropes—perfect for brightening up the space with a small plant.
$95, available at End
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Add texture: Luka TV Console from Castlery
Introducing interesting and varied textures does wonders for enhancing the visual interest in a room. Wood panelling on walls is common in Japandi interiors, but an alternative is to carefully select pieces of furniture that will provide a touch of texture to the space.
With slatted doors, this console mimics the oft-used panelling while providing additional well-ventilated storage space.
$899, available at Castlery
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Add texture: Lathvia Bedside Table from Island Living
Not only does this side table feature beautifully-textured rattan panelling, it is also crafted using reclaimed teak wood—a plus when it comes to the nature-conscious Japandi ethos.
$295, available at Island Living
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Add texture: Blanca Natural White Rope Basket from Crate & Barrel
Raffia wraps around a frame of moulded rattan to form this roomy hamper, a modern take on the traditional woven basket. The braided white rope adds some texture, while the rattan handles provide a hint of warm colour.
$99.95, available at Crate & Barrel
