How to Style Your Home Like Japandi Interior Design

Japandi style interiors have taken the design world by storm, combining the tranquility of Japanese aesthetics with the warmth and functionality of Scandinavian style. Known for its clean lines, natural materials, and focus on simplicity, Japandi creates a balanced, serene, and highly livable environment. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to bring Japandi design principles into your home, from furniture selection and color palettes to decor choices and layout tips. Whether you’re updating a single room or revamping your entire home, here’s how to style like Japandi interior design.

1. Understanding Japandi Design: Where East Meets West

Japandi is a fusion of Japanese minimalism and Scandinavian simplicity, blending the best of japanese and scandinavian aesthetics:

• Japanese Influence: Japanese design emphasizes minimalism, organic forms, and wabi-sabi, which celebrates imperfection. It values peace, harmony, and balance in living spaces.

• Scandinavian Influence: Scandinavian style, on the other hand, brings in functionality, hygge (coziness), and a warm, inviting atmosphere.

• The Result: Japandi combines these approaches to create a minimalist, functional, and warm aesthetic. It’s ideal for those who want their home to feel like a sanctuary without sacrificing style.

2. History and Inspiration of Japandi Interior Design Style

Japandi interior design style has its roots in the cultural exchange between Japan and Scandinavia that dates back to the mid-19th century. During this period, Scandinavian designers and artists were profoundly inspired by Japanese design sensibilities, which emphasized simplicity, natural elements, and comfort. This fusion of styles resulted in a unique design movement that beautifully blends the best of both worlds.

The Japandi style is characterized by its emphasis on simplicity, natural elements, and comfort. It combines the light, bright, and functional aspects of Scandinavian design with the warm, sophisticated elements of Japanese design. The style is also deeply influenced by the Japanese concept of “wabi-sabi,” which finds beauty in imperfection and impermanence.

The history of Japandi design is closely tied to the cultural exchange between Japan and Scandinavia. In the mid-19th century, Scandinavian designers and artists began traveling to Japan, where they were captivated by the country’s unique design sensibility. They brought back with them ideas and techniques that they incorporated into their own design work, resulting in a harmonious blend of Japanese and Scandinavian styles.

Today, Japandi design is a popular interior design style that is characterized by its emphasis on simplicity, natural elements, and comfort. It is a style that is both aesthetically pleasing and highly functional, making it a popular choice for homeowners around the world.

2. Choosing a Japandi Color Palette

Japandi spaces favor a natural and muted color palette that reflects tranquility and elegance. The muted color palette is a hallmark of japanese interior design, reflecting tranquility and elegance.

• Neutral Foundation: Begin with a foundation of soft, neutral colors like whites, creams, beiges, and light grays. These tones keep the room feeling open and airy.

• Warm Earth Tones: Incorporate warm earthy shades like taupe, clay, muted browns, and sage greens. These colors add depth and complement natural wood and stone.

• Accent Colors with Restraint: Japandi design doesn’t shy away from dark accents, like charcoal or muted blues, but they should be used sparingly. These tones add sophistication without disrupting the room’s harmony.

3. Incorporate Natural Materials

Natural materials are essential in Japandi design, as they bring warmth and texture to a minimal space, much like in traditional Japanese interiors.

• Wood: Wood is a staple in both Japanese and Scandinavian interiors. Light woods like oak, ash, and pine evoke the Scandinavian aesthetic, while darker woods like walnut bring a Japanese touch.

• Textiles: Linen, cotton, and wool are perfect for Japandi interiors, adding texture without overwhelming the minimalist aesthetic. Use these materials for throws, cushions, and curtains.

• Stone and Ceramic: Stone tables, countertops, and ceramic accessories add natural beauty. Unfinished or matte surfaces work well to keep the space grounded and organic.

• Paper: In the form of lampshades, shoji screens, or wall decor, paper elements bring a delicate texture and diffused light, aligning with Japanese aesthetics.

4. Focus on Simple, Functional Furniture

Japandi furniture is understated, practical, and carefully chosen to serve a purpose, reflecting the principles of japanese style.

• Low-Profile Furniture: Furniture in a Japandi-style home is often low to the ground, such as platform beds or floor seating. This creates a grounded, calming effect and connects the room to nature.

• Clean Lines and Minimalist Shapes: Look for furniture with clean lines and simple forms. Avoid overly ornate or bulky furniture that can feel out of place.

• Multifunctional Pieces: Scandinavian design prioritizes functionality, so opt for multifunctional furniture, like a bench with storage, nesting tables, or a bed with built-in drawers.

• Natural Wood Finishes: Choose furniture in natural wood or matte finishes. Painted or glossy finishes don’t align with Japandi’s raw, authentic aesthetic.

5. Layer Textures to Add Warmth

While Japandi is minimalist, adding layers of texture makes the space inviting and cozy, a key aspect of Scandinavian aesthetics.

• Textured Fabrics: Layer natural textiles in throws, pillows, and rugs. A soft wool rug, linen throw blankets, and plush cushions create a warm, hygge-inspired vibe.

• Contrast in Materials: Combine contrasting materials, like smooth ceramic vases with rough wooden tables, or soft linen curtains with cool stone surfaces. This subtle contrast adds depth without overpowering the room.

• Floor Rugs: Consider a jute, wool, or cotton rug to soften the space and add warmth underfoot. The rug should be simple and in neutral tones to match the room’s color palette.

6. Embrace Negative Space

Japandi design emphasizes the beauty of simplicity and restraint, which means avoiding over-decorating.

• Allow for Open Space: Arrange furniture in a way that allows for breathing room around each piece. Leave spaces unfilled to give the room a balanced, uncluttered feel.

• Fewer, Well-Chosen Decor Pieces: Japandi decor is about quality, not quantity. Use a few carefully selected items, like a handcrafted vase or a single piece of wall art, to keep the space visually appealing without being crowded.

• Mindful Arrangements: Focus on purposeful arrangements rather than filling every corner. For example, a single plant in a simple pot or a wooden bowl on a table can be enough to create interest.

7. Lighting: Soft, Ambient, and Natural

Lighting is crucial in Japandi spaces, setting the mood and enhancing the room's serenity.

• Natural Light: Embrace natural light as much as possible. Large windows, sheer curtains, and open spaces help light flow through the room.

• Soft, Ambient Lighting: Incorporate soft, ambient lighting through paper lanterns, pendant lights, or simple floor lamps. Avoid harsh, overhead lighting and opt for lamps that provide a gentle, warm glow.

• Paper Lanterns and Shoji-Inspired Lamps: Paper and linen lamps diffuse light beautifully, creating a calming ambiance. Shoji-inspired lamps or rice paper shades add a touch of Japanese tradition while maintaining the minimal aesthetic.

8. Add Greenery for Natural Beauty

Plants play an essential role in Japandi interiors, bringing life and natural beauty to a minimalist space.

• Simple Indoor Plants: Choose plants with a clean, structured look, like bamboo, bonsai, or snake plants. Avoid overly bushy or large plants that can clutter the space.

• Natural Pots: Use pots made of natural materials like ceramic, stone, or wood. Keep pots simple and neutral in color to avoid distracting from the room's serenity.

• Limit the Number of Plants: One or two plants can be enough to add freshness without overwhelming the minimalist aesthetic. Position plants where they can thrive in natural light, such as near windows or in corners.

9. Introduce Wabi-Sabi Accents

Wabi-sabi, the Japanese concept of embracing imperfections, aligns beautifully with Japandi design.

• Handmade Ceramics: Use handmade ceramics with slight imperfections, like bowls, vases, or plates, to add a unique touch. These items are one-of-a-kind and introduce organic shapes to the room.

• Aged and Weathered Finishes: Decor items with slight weathering or a patina (like aged wood or vintage metal) reflect the wabi-sabi aesthetic, adding depth and character to the space.

• Decor with Organic Shapes: Instead of perfectly symmetrical decor, look for items with organic, natural shapes. These can be anything from asymmetrical mirrors to handcrafted pottery.

10. Consider Shoji Screens or Sliding Doors

Shoji screens are a traditional Japanese element that works well in Japandi interiors, adding functionality and beauty.

• Shoji Screens for Light and Privacy: Shoji screens are made of translucent paper, allowing natural light to pass through while adding privacy. Use them as room dividers or closet doors.

• Minimalist Sliding Doors: Sliding doors help save space and keep the look clean and seamless. Choose sliding doors with simple designs and natural wood tones.

11. Minimal Wall Art and Decor

Wall decor in a Japandi-style home is kept minimal, allowing the room's natural beauty to shine.

• Large, Minimal Art Pieces: Opt for one large, simple artwork instead of multiple small frames. Choose art that reflects the natural world, like abstract landscapes or minimalist line drawings.

• Japanese Calligraphy or Prints: Traditional Japanese prints or calligraphy add cultural richness. Select pieces with soft colors or neutral tones to maintain harmony.

• Natural or Neutral Frames: Choose frames made from wood or in neutral tones to complement the room's natural materials.

12. Clutter-Free Storage Solutions

Japandi interiors rely on thoughtful organization to maintain a clean, calm environment.

• Built-In Storage: Consider built-in shelves or storage to reduce the need for extra furniture and maintain the room’s flow. Cabinets, wall-mounted shelves, and recessed nooks work well in Japandi spaces.

• Multifunctional Storage Furniture: Use furniture with storage capabilities, like ottomans, benches with hidden compartments, or platform beds with drawers.

• Minimal and Organized Surfaces: Keep surfaces clean and organized. Avoid unnecessary items on countertops or shelves; instead, store them out of sight.

13. Incorporate Japanese and Scandinavian Cultural Touches

To fully embrace Japandi style, add a few cultural decor elements from both Japanese and Scandinavian traditions.

• Japanese Tea Sets or Ikebana: A traditional Japanese tea set or an Ikebana floral arrangement can add authenticity to the space without overwhelming it.

• Scandinavian Textiles: Soft Scandinavian textiles, like knitted blankets or wool cushions, add warmth and coziness to the Japandi aesthetic. These items not only enhance comfort but also subtly bring in elements of Scandinavian hygge.

  • Bonsai or Ikebana Floral Arrangements: A carefully arranged bonsai or an ikebana floral arrangement can bring a touch of Japanese art to the space. These arrangements celebrate nature and require minimal space, fitting perfectly with the Japandi philosophy.

  • Minimalist Scandinavian Artwork: Add a simple black-and-white line drawing or a natural landscape piece that complements the room's color palette. Scandinavian art is often inspired by nature, aligning seamlessly with Japandi's organic focus.

  14. Consider Flooring and Carpets with Natural Textures

  Flooring in Japandi design often emphasizes natural materials and textures to complement the earthy, minimalist aesthetic.

  • Wooden Floors: Opt for light or medium-toned wooden flooring, such as oak or pine, which adds warmth without being overpowering. This type of flooring creates a serene, natural foundation for the room.

  • Tatami Mats: If you want to incorporate a traditional Japanese element, consider using tatami mats. Tatami mats are made from woven straw and add a grounding, natural element to a Japandi space.

  • Area Rugs: In areas where wood or tatami isn’t practical, add a neutral-toned rug in jute, wool, or cotton. These rugs should have simple textures and patterns, avoiding anything overly colorful or intricate.

  15. Add Personal Touches with Intentionality

  While Japandi interiors are minimalist, personal touches are encouraged, provided they are carefully chosen and meaningful.

  • Sentimental Objects: Select one or two items with personal significance, like a handcrafted souvenir or a family heirloom. These should be items that bring you joy and a sense of connection, placed intentionally rather than scattered.

  • Books: Display a few favorite books on a small shelf or bedside table. Books can be part of the decor, adding a personal layer without creating clutter.

  • Curated Display: Instead of numerous knick-knacks, choose one or two items to display prominently, allowing each piece to stand out and be appreciated without overwhelming the space.

  16. Common Mistakes to Avoid in Japandi Design

  While Japandi design is a beautiful and functional interior style, there are some common mistakes to avoid when incorporating it into your home. Here are some of the most frequent pitfalls and how to steer clear of them:

  • Over-accessorizing: Japandi design is all about simplicity and minimalism. Avoid over-accessorizing your space with too many decorative items, as this can clutter the space and detract from the clean lines and natural beauty of the design.

  • Using too many bold colors: Japandi design is characterized by a neutral color palette with subtle pops of natural color. Avoid using too many bold colors, as this can disrupt the calm and serene atmosphere of the space.

  • Not incorporating natural elements: Japandi design is all about incorporating natural materials, such as wood, plants, and natural textiles. Make sure to include these elements to create a cohesive and harmonious design.

  • Not considering the scale of furniture: Japandi design emphasizes clean lines and minimalism. Ensure that your furniture is proportional to the space and avoids cluttering the room.

  • Not incorporating texture: Japandi design thrives on the use of texture and natural materials. Incorporate a variety of textures, such as wood, linen, and ceramics, to add depth and interest to the space.

  • By avoiding these common mistakes, you can create a beautiful and functional Japandi-inspired space that reflects your personal style and aesthetic.

  17. Prioritize Sustainability and Quality

  Japandi design aligns with sustainable living, focusing on high-quality, eco-friendly, and durable pieces over disposable, trendy items.

  • Invest in Quality: Choose high-quality materials and craftsmanship to ensure that each piece lasts. This is not only sustainable but also aligns with the Japandi focus on authenticity and simplicity.

  • Eco-Friendly Choices: Opt for sustainably sourced materials, like FSC-certified wood, organic cotton, and bamboo. These materials are both environmentally friendly and naturally beautiful.

  • Support Local Artisans: Whenever possible, buy handcrafted items from local artisans. Handmade decor and furniture often embody the wabi-sabi principle, adding authenticity and uniqueness to the space.

  18. Design with Intention and Mindfulness

  Japandi interiors are rooted in intentionality, with each item serving a purpose or adding value to the space.

  • Curate Carefully: Rather than filling a room with decor, focus on pieces that resonate with you and align with the design’s purpose. Every item in a Japandi room should feel deliberate and meaningful.

  • Avoid Impulsive Additions: Japandi design requires restraint; avoid adding items impulsively. Instead, evaluate how each piece contributes to the room’s overall harmony.

  • Create Zones for Specific Activities: Design your space with intention, creating specific zones for relaxation, work, and leisure. This can be as simple as a cozy reading nook or a dedicated space for meditation.

  19. Maintain a Consistent Routine to Preserve the Look

  Japandi interiors are clean and clutter-free, but this look is achieved through regular maintenance and organization.

  • Daily Tidying Habits: Implement small daily tidying routines, such as clearing surfaces, folding blankets, and putting items away. These habits will help keep the space organized and serene.

  • Seasonal Decluttering: Review and declutter each season to keep the space feeling fresh and minimal. Donate or repurpose items that no longer serve a purpose, maintaining the room’s simplicity.

  • Mindful Use of Space: Practice mindful living by being intentional about what you bring into the space. Avoid accumulating unnecessary items to preserve the room's harmony.

  20. Embrace the Japandi Lifestyle

  Japandi is more than just a design style—it’s a lifestyle that encourages simplicity, mindfulness, and an appreciation for beauty in the everyday.

  • Practice Mindfulness: Japandi design encourages mindfulness in daily life. Take time to enjoy your surroundings, whether it’s appreciating the craftsmanship of a handmade bowl or taking a moment to tidy up.

  • Slow Living: Embrace the slow-living ethos by focusing on quality time, relaxation, and connection with your space. Japandi interiors are intended to support a calm, fulfilling lifestyle.

  • Celebrate the Present: With its roots in wabi-sabi, Japandi reminds us to appreciate things as they are, embracing imperfection and the beauty of the present moment.

  21. Creating a Japandi-Inspired Bedroom: Minimalism and Functionality

  The bedroom is one of the most important spaces in the home to apply Japandi principles. A Japandi-inspired bedroom is designed to be a calm, clutter-free sanctuary, where simplicity, organization, and intentionality reign supreme. From using minimal furniture with built-in storage to incorporating thoughtful details like Japandi-inspired hangers, you can create a bedroom that supports relaxation and order.

  Using Japandi-Inspired Pants Hangers and Shirt Hangers

  In a Japandi bedroom, even the smallest details contribute to the room’s serene, minimalist aesthetic. Japandi-inspired pants hangers and shirt hangers are not only functional but also reflect the design’s values of elegance and simplicity.

  • Wooden or Bamboo Hangers: Choose hangers made from natural materials like wood or bamboo, which enhance the room's earthy feel and fit seamlessly with the rest of the decor. These hangers are sturdy, durable, and add a sense of quality and craftsmanship, reflecting the Japandi ethos of choosing items that last.

  • Minimalist Design: Opt for hangers with a minimalist design—avoid bright colors, plastic, or ornate details. Japandi hangers should have clean lines and a natural finish, adding to the room's organized and harmonious atmosphere.

  • Streamlined Closet Organization: Arrange your closet with uniform, matching hangers to create visual consistency and reduce visual clutter. A streamlined closet with Japandi-inspired hangers not only looks aesthetically pleasing but also simplifies your daily routine.

  • Open Closet or Clothing Rack: If space allows, consider an open closet system or a simple clothing rack where carefully selected, neatly hung clothing items are displayed as part of the room’s decor. Keep only a few pieces on display, embracing Japandi's minimalism while showcasing your favorite clothing items as part of the room’s aesthetic.

  Choosing Minimal Furniture with Built-In Storage

  A Japandi bedroom favors minimal furniture with clean lines and functional storage. Since the Japandi style prioritizes both form and function, select pieces that reduce clutter by incorporating built-in storage, keeping the room’s overall appearance streamlined and clutter-free.

  • Platform Bed with Storage: Opt for a low-profile platform bed with built-in drawers or storage compartments underneath. This allows you to store extra linens, blankets, or seasonal clothing without the need for a bulky dresser or extra storage furniture.

  • Bedside Tables with Hidden Storage: Choose bedside tables with drawers or enclosed compartments. This provides space to store nighttime essentials like books, chargers, or hand cream while keeping the surface clutter-free. Look for tables in natural wood tones with simple designs to align with the Japandi aesthetic.

  • Wardrobes with Clean Lines and Built-In Organization: A minimalist wardrobe with built-in shelving and drawers helps keep your clothes and accessories organized. Opt for a wardrobe in a natural wood finish or matte color, avoiding ornate hardware or detailing.

  • Storage Benches or Trunks: At the foot of the bed, a storage bench or trunk in wood or woven material can serve as extra seating while providing additional storage. This multifunctional piece is ideal for storing larger items like bedding or blankets and adds warmth and functionality to the room.

  Open and Airy Layout

  In a Japandi bedroom, layout and furniture placement are just as important as the furniture itself.

  • Keep Furniture Low and Close to the Floor: Following the Japanese tradition of being grounded, keep your bed and seating low to the floor. This maintains a sense of openness in the room and creates a soothing, grounded feel.

  • Limit the Number of Furniture Pieces: Japandi design emphasizes restraint, so avoid overfilling the room with furniture. A bed, bedside tables, and a wardrobe or closet system are typically sufficient. This minimal approach allows each piece to stand out, promoting calm and focus.

  • Consider the Flow of Natural Light: Arrange your furniture to maximize natural light, a core aspect of Japandi interiors. Keep windows unobstructed to let light fill the room, enhancing its openness and tranquility.

  Achieving a Clutter-Free Bedroom with Thoughtful Storage Solutions

  The bedroom should be a place of rest, free from unnecessary distractions or clutter. Implementing Japandi-inspired storage solutions helps keep belongings organized and the room visually calm.

  • Under-Bed Storage Solutions: Use built-in storage under the bed or invest in stylish storage boxes made of natural materials like bamboo or linen. These boxes can store out-of-season clothing or extra bedding while remaining hidden from sight.

  • Wall Hooks and Floating Shelves: To save floor space, install a few wall hooks or floating shelves for essentials. Hooks made of wood or matte-finished metal can hold a bag, robe, or jacket, while a small floating shelf can display a plant or your favorite book without taking up floor space.

  • Drawer Dividers: Drawer dividers help keep smaller items organized and easy to access. Dividers are especially useful in bedside tables or dresser drawers for items like socks, jewelry, or electronic accessories, allowing you to locate items quickly and keep surfaces clear.

  Final Touches for a Japandi-Inspired Bedroom

  The key to a Japandi-inspired bedroom is not just about the furniture or storage but about creating an environment that feels calm, balanced, and restorative.

  • Use Soft, Natural Bedding: Select bedding in natural materials like linen or organic cotton in neutral or earthy tones. Avoid bright colors or patterns, as these can distract from the room’s tranquility.

  • Add a Plant or Two for Freshness: A single plant, like a bonsai, snake plant, or fern, brings a touch of nature indoors without adding clutter. Place it on a bedside table or a small shelf, allowing it to be a focal point that adds life and beauty to the room.

  • Incorporate Warm, Ambient Lighting: Lighting is essential to create a cozy, inviting atmosphere in the bedroom. Use soft, warm-toned lighting, such as a paper lantern or a wooden bedside lamp, to create a gentle glow. Avoid harsh, overhead lights in favor of ambient lighting that enhances relaxation.

  By combining Japandi-inspired hangers, minimalist furniture with built-in storage, and thoughtful layout choices, you can transform your bedroom into a harmonious, clutter-free sanctuary. Each detail, from the choice of materials to the streamlined organization, supports the Japandi principles of simplicity, functionality, and beauty. This approach ensures that your bedroom isn’t just a place for sleep but a restful retreat that encourages a slower, more mindful pace of living.

  22. Conclusion: Creating a Japandi-Inspired Home

  Creating a Japandi-inspired home is all about embracing simplicity, natural elements, and comfort. By incorporating the principles of Japandi design into your home, you can create a beautiful and functional space that reflects your personal style and aesthetic.

  Remember to keep your design simple and uncluttered, incorporating natural elements and textures to add depth and interest to the space. Choose furniture that is proportional to the room and avoids cluttering it. And don’t forget to incorporate natural light and plants to bring the outdoors in and create a sense of calm and serenity.

  By following these principles, you can create a Japandi-inspired home that is both aesthetically pleasing and highly functional. Whether you’re looking to create a peaceful retreat or a practical living space, Japandi design is a great choice for anyone looking to create a beautiful and harmonious home.