J is for Japandi
In this latest instalment of my A to Z of Interior Trends, J is for Japandi.
The word Japandi is a combination of the words Japanese and Scandi. These two design philosophies come together to create a style that embraces simplicity, comfort and natural materials. It is Scandinavia’s Hygge (pronounced “hoo-gah”) meets Japan’s Wabi-Sabi.
The word Hygge is derived from a sixteenth-century Norwegian term, hugga, which means to comfort or console. The Hygge aesthetic is based on neutral tones, serene spaces, and cosiness.
Wabi-Sabi is centred on the acceptance of transience and imperfection. Its three core principles are simplicity, tranquility and naturalness. The Wabi-Sabi aesthetic encompasses clean lines, organic textures, muted colours and craftsmanship.
The overall look is minimalistic but in a warm and inviting way.
Materials
The focus is on natural materials such as unfinished woods and bamboo pieces. Green plants are recommended to bring a sense of the outside in. Add to this warm textures and soft pieces to convey an element of cosiness.
Moodboard
Colour palette
The Japandi colour palette is drawn from the stark crisp palettes associated with Nordic interiors married with the warmer neutrals popular in Japanese interiors. Think warm muted tones such as pearl grey, sky blue, pale pink, light green, white and a hint of black.
I have created this colour palette by drawing on iconic images from both cultures. I would envisage using the lighter shades for walls and ceilings and the darker ones for cosy nooks. Furnishings and accessories would encompass a subtle array of tones and textures and in doing so would bring the scheme together.
Furnishings
Japandi style furnishings tend to be constructed from hard materials such as wood, metal, and rattan. They are likely to be upholstered in tactile fabrics such as sheepskin, linen, boucle and corduroy, or softened with the addition of a linen cloth or waffle blanket.
The key to choosing furniture and accessories is look for simple, organic forms and clean lines. The emphasis is on craftsmanship and sustainability. Pieces that will stand the test of time are far more appropriate than one-time-use items.
The images below are examples of the type of furnishings that might be used but they aren’t retailer specific.
On the other hand this handcrafted Japanese style storage bed can be sourced from Get Laid Beds and is a fine example of a minimalist design that has built in-storage ensuring sheets and bed linen can be tidied away.
Accessories
Artwork, ornaments and house plants fall into this category. Choose these with care to maintain the calm, minimalist vibe which underpins the Japandi aesthetic. A few cleverly curated pieces will add an element of decoration to the scheme without it becoming cluttered and untidy.
- Look for organic shaped vases and pieces of art that work well with your muted colour scheme
- Look out for bamboo lampshades and woven baskets
- Choose textured cushions and throws rather than colourful ones
- Choose elegant plants to bring the outside in or arrange some pampas grass in a floor standing vase
- Choose rugs manufactured from natural fibres such as sisal or jute
- Select scented candles with a subtle calming aroma
Whilst the influences of the Japandi style are set in nature and craftsmanship there are many retailers who specialise in ‘the look’. Below you find some links to some popular brands that I have researched for this article.
Would you like some help?
If you would like help designing or styling you interior please contact me for an initial chat as I would love to help you.
