Japandi is essentially a very minimal style that combines the Hygge feeling of the Scandanavian with the Wabi-sabi of Japanese styles. You will notice that they are very similar in their governing principles but still differ in the execution of the final space. To truly understand Japandi we need to understand the concept of Hygge and Wabi-Sabi.
Hygge(pronounced hoo-gah)
Google’s definition says Hygge means a quality of coziness and comfortable conviviality that engenders a feeling of contentment or well-being (regarded as a defining characteristic of Danish culture). It is essentially a lifestyle where you focus on spending quality time with your family or even on your own instead of getting caught up in the pursuit of more materialistic pleasures. The Scandinavian style focuses heavily on this principle and hence the minimalistic approach, the warm neutral colours, all in the bid to promote a cozy, quieter environment.
Wabi-Sabi
It is a Japanese word that means An aesthetic or worldview characterized by finding beauty in imperfection, impermanence, or simplicity. That means it accepts the natural cycle of life and death, so that means you do not rush behind everything shiny and new but accept the more flawed or perhaps sentimental pieces you already have.
Danish Hygge + Japanese Wabi-sabi = Japandi
When combined, it means building a cozy, comfortable space that is designed with sustainability in mind while also finding space for the more imperfect items. To design a Japandi place, there are a few things you need to keep in mind.
Declutter
Minimalism is at the heart of Japandi spaces. Get rid of visual clutter. Don’t go overboard with the art or accessories. Instead of a gallery wall, pick one or two large art pieces that speak to you. Don’t fill your shelves with little nothings, instead buy that stone vase or put that old candelabra on show.
Warm Colour Palette
This is essential! Pick a colour palette that is warm. The basic colours could be beige, brown, green, or creams. The colour palette should also carry into the lights you choose for your space. Don’t go for the white lights or the cooler tones, that could totally throw off your Japandi space. Create a contrast with different colours within the base colour palette. Like this
Organic and Natural Materials
Japandi is all about sustainability so please forget all about plastics or inorganic materials. Jute, Rattan, bamboo, cotton, wool, and natural stones work best here. So go for the travertine tables and rattan chairs to achieve that look. The ideal flooring would be a light hardwood floor. Wood plays a really important role in Japandi so make sure you pay attention to what type you are bringing in.
Free-flowing open layout
If your interior space allows it, try to reduce any obstacles in your space. Consider the movements and transitions from one space to another without too many walls, columns or furniture getting in the way.
Add Plants
Add real plants to your space but keep it minimal. So instead of several little plants, get a big potted plant to fill up your space and bring nature in. An olive tree, some branches, or a nicely trimmed bonsai would work well.
Where to shop Japandi
Thankfully, it is not very difficult to score Japandi pieces. There are too many options to list but here are some I would recommend
- Ikea
- Structube
- Bouclair
- Muji
- Rove Concepts
- Crate&Barrel(for accessories)
- Anthropologie
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