HIGH-END RESIDENTIAL INTERIOR DESIGN

*Images sourced from Pinterest.

Japandi interiors seamlessly blends the minimalist elegance of Scandinavian design with the timeless simplicity and artistic style of Japanese aesthetics, creating a harmonious fusion that balances warmth and functionality in a unique and inviting way.

To the surprise of many, Japandi style has actually existed for quite a significant period, although its widespread recognition and popularity have notably surged as of late. A growing number of individuals have begun discussing and showing interest in this unique design fusion.

This blog will look at different ways to introduce Japandi into your home, and it will hopefully inspire you to do so.

The Elements of Both:

Japanese elements places a strong emphasis on utilising organic and natural materials such as wood, stone, rattan, cotton, and paper in its creations, ensuring a commitment to sustainability and eco-friendliness.

A neutral color palette is at the core of Japandi design philosophy, focusing on rich, deeper, earthy tones such as browns, greys, whites and stone. Spaces are adorned with intentional and functional decor elements like Teapots, Books, Ceramic cups, and Vases, creating a sense of purpose and tranquility. Embracing uncluttered spaces and welcoming natural light, it strives to cultivate a harmonious environment that speaks to the essence of simplicity and sophistication.

In Scandinavian interior design, there is a distinct emphasis on using natural elements and materials to create a warm and inviting space. Light wood features prominently throughout, bringing an element of nature indoors. The colour palette remains neutral, highlighting shades like white, cream, and light brown, sourced from materials like birch and white oak. Clean lines and uncluttered spaces define the aesthetic, allowing natural light to illuminate the rooms effortlessly.

When you take the time to distinguish the individual styles, you can truly appreciate how they seamlessly blend together to form the unique essence of Japandi. Should you find it challenging to envision the integration of Japandi into your home, consider deconstructing the styles and selecting the specific elements that resonate with you from each. Gradually integrate these chosen elements, allowing them to converge organically and achieve a sense of tranquil cohesiveness.

*Images sourced from Pinterest.

How to bring it into your home:

To effortlessly integrate Japandi aesthetics into your living space, decluttering is key. The essence of Japandi lies in minimalism and simplicity, where less is indeed more. Embrace the absence of cluttered surfaces as a fundamental aspect of this style. Additionally, consider curating a blend of your preferred elements from both Japanese and Scandinavian design influences to personalize your space authentically. Dark wooden accents are a hallmark of Japandi interiors, so explore ways to incorporate them thoughtfully. Embracing sustainability, Japandi encourages the use of repurposed and antique furniture pieces to infuse warmth and character. Opt for items like vintage coffee tables, media units, desks, or dining tables to introduce the desired darker wooden tones seamlessly into your decor scheme. Alternatively, if you would prefer to have lighter large pieces of furniture then take a look at darker accents such as cushions, vases, ceramics, footstools and rugs.

Less is more, and at times, so is being Neutral.

I always find that neutral interiors can be quite polarizing, much like marmite, where some individuals are drawn to it while others are not, and both perspectives are completely acceptable. Speaking specifically about Japandi, there exist numerous approaches to fully embodying the neutral design ethos, and personally, I believe that Japandi has masterfully demonstrated the art of doing just that.

When creating a neutral home, it's common to gravitate towards shades of white, cream, or beige. Surprisingly, there are various ways to achieve this aesthetic, as each shade of white offers a unique touch to the overall design. We will touch on how to have a neutral, yet practical home below. After this we will also look at 10 small ways to start making your home more Japandi.

JAPANDI INSPIRED BATHROOM — *Image sourced from Pinterest.

Neutral isn’t always impractical…

You also need to consider your lifestyle and how it aligns with the practicality of the design. Take into account factors like having pets that roam freely throughout your home. If this is the case, opting for a white rug in your living room may not be the most suitable choice. Instead, lean towards more earthy tones or select a white rug with a pattern that can camouflage any stains or accidents effectively. If you have young children, rather than choosing a large marble coffee table with sharp edges, look at incorporating a soft, textured ottoman with a. neutral stripe. Add a dark wooden tray and some faux plants on top for decoration, and practicality.

It is also important to look at the fabrics you choose. With neutral fabrics in high traffic areas you will want to use fabrics with a higher rub rate. In general 5,000 – 20,000 rubs is good for general domestic use, General, 20,000 – 25,000 rubs, heavy domestic use and 30,000 rubs tends to be for commercial. That being said, if you have children or animals, it may also benefit you to look at outdoor fabrics. The more practical, the better.

10 small things you can do to your home to achieve the Japandi Style:

Simplify your living space and create a serene atmosphere by decluttering and embracing minimalistic principles.
Add elements such as soft greys, warm beiges, or subtle whites, it creates a sense of balance and tranquility within the environment. Additionally, choosing finishes like matte textures or natural wood accents can further emphasise the neutral palette, nodding to the Japandi style.
Introduce a variety of green plants. By incorporating more plants into your home decor, you can create a refreshing and inviting atmosphere that not only looks aesthetically pleasing but also promotes a sense of tranquility and well-being.
If you are considering rearranging the seating in your home, take a moment to explore the idea of incorporating low profile seating options.
Introducing more textures help your help feel more warm and inviting. In a minimalistic design, it also adds interest and variety without making the space feel cluttered and unorganised.
Subtle lighting helps create different zones and moods in a home. Japandi style is soft, warm and the design favours layers and heights. Lighting is a great way to do this, think about pendants, floor lamps, table lamps and floor lights.
If you have bright and colourful artwork, try changing this for more neutral and abstract pieces. Look for earthy tones, organic shapes and natural wooden frames.
Introducing a variety of wood finishes is an essential element to consider when creating a Japandi design. The diverse tones and textures not only enhance the natural aesthetic but also seamlessly complement the finishing touches, elevating the overall harmony of the space.
Decorate your home with practical accessories and ornaments. Try and keep to a neutral colour scheme but incorporate accessories such as vases, boxes and baskets. All practical, but if chosen careful they can also compliment one another and decorate a space.
Soft, neutral cushions, throws, and rugs not only provide comfort but also add a touch of warmth and harmony to your space, tying everything together in a seamless design scheme.