Japan and Scandinavia are not geographically close, but the two cultures do share similar design preferences. The minimalism of Japanese design and the natural elements of Scandinavian decor combine to create Japandi, an aesthetic in home design that is quickly becoming popular across the globe. This design style is perfect for anyone that wants a functional, clean, and cozy home.
Read on to discover tips on how you can embrace the Japandi style in your own home.
Pick soothing paint colors
The Japandi style emphasizes natural elements and a warm, cozy feeling. Your wall color is essential here, as you will want to anchor your room in a warm, neutral color. If white is too stark for your tastes, consider painting the walls in an off-white or beige tone. The light wall color allows light to reflect and maximizes brightness in your space, creating that inviting atmosphere. It will also provide the perfect backdrop for darker décor and furniture—and the occasional pop of color.
Declutter excess items
Many of us are guilty of hoarding a few knick-knacks that we don’t love or don’t need, but that practice is contrary to the minimalism central to Japandi. In Japandi style, they emphasize quality more than quantity. Try to get rid of any excess furniture, art, and tchotchkes. You don’t want your space to be sterile, but each piece of décor needs to be carefully considered and serve its proper function. When choosing your décor components, be thoughtful about how they fit into the space and try to avoid a pile-up of meaningless junk. You want your room to be simple and elegant, not overcrowded.
Incorporate nature
Another aspect of the Japandi design style is using materials and textures found in nature to achieve a calm and cozy effect. When choosing furniture or cabinets, try to gravitate towards dark wood, unstained wood, or bamboo. Wool also works well in the Japandi style, and you can incorporate this texture via a warm throw blanket or ottoman set beside your sofa. Finally, a Louisville, KY, interior decorator recommends including greenery throughout your space to take the natural element to the next level. Add a few floor plants or some trailing plants to your shelf to complete the look.
Find multifunctional, comfortable furniture
Like other areas of Japandi style, you want your furniture to be minimal while also being homey. Visually, you want your furniture to be low to the floor to create a grounding effect. Stick to simple, clean lines and try to avoid pieces that are too visually busy. Natural wood is best, as well as neutral fabrics for sofas and pillows. You also want your furniture to be functional, so choose comfortable, multipurpose pieces, such as ottomans with extra storage or a chaise that lifts to hold blankets and pillows.
Welcome pops of color
While the Japandi style is known for its minimalism, that doesn’t mean you have to be scarce on color. You can include color throughout your Japandi room in a variety of ways. When selecting your color palette, try to stick with colors often found in nature. Greens and blues work beautifully here, as they contrast nicely with neutral colors without being too overpowering. Consider adding a blue throw pillow to your couch or a large potted plant in the corner of your room.
The Japandi home design style is the perfect combination of chic and homey. We hope the tips above help you to create the calm, cozy space of your dreams!
