Modern Style: Japandi
What is Japandi
Japandi is the perfect blend of Japanese and Scandinavian design aesthetics. This unique merger is harmonious and natural, thanks to the extreme similarities in both styles. While the Scandinavian design places emphasis on clean lines, minimalism, and functionality, the Japanese aesthetic focuses on tranquility and balance.
The core essence of Japandi is to create a calming atmosphere where you can breathe easily and feel restored. The style achieves this by balancing natural elements, muted tones, and functional yet aesthetically pleasing pieces. It effortlessly marries the Eastern philosophy of balance and tranquility with the Western affinity for simplicity and functionality. The outcome is a space that feels cozy and minimalist, modern yet timeless.
Credit: JFD Creative
How to Create a Japandi Space
Choose the Right Color Palette
In Japandi style, colors are usually soft and muted. Think gentle grays, earthy browns, and even some pastel hues. These colors set the stage for a tranquil space, inviting peaceful vibes into your home. Steer clear of bold and loud colors, as they disrupt the serenity Japandi aims to achieve.
Select Natural Wood Elements
Wood plays a significant role in Japandi interiors. You'll often see a range of wooden elements, from light Scandinavian woods like oak and pine to dark Japanese shades like mahogany and teak. While mixing different types of wood is encouraged to add depth and contrast, stick to no more than three different shades to maintain a cohesive look.
Credit: JFD Creative
Credit: Carlos Diaz
Incorporate Other Natural Materials
Apart from wood, consider introducing other natural elements like stone and bamboo into your space. These materials add layers of texture and warmth, further enhancing the organic touch that's so central to the Japandi style.
Embrace Asymmetry and Horizontal Lines
When it comes to layout, Japandi often features asymmetry and horizontal lines. The placement of furniture, décor, and even architectural elements follow these principles to create a balanced, harmonious atmosphere. Unlike styles that favor symmetry and a regimented order, Japandi thrives on a more relaxed alignment.
Be Mindful of Furniture and Décor Selection
In a Japandi space, every piece of furniture and décor should be carefully chosen. The aim is to have each piece stand out on its own while also complementing the space as a whole. Minimalist furniture pieces that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing are the best fit.
Less is More
Japandi adheres to a minimalist philosophy that emphasizes purposeful living, urging you to eliminate unnecessary clutter from your living spaces. In this design approach, every item you choose for your home should serve a specific purpose, be it functional, aesthetic, or ideally, a combination of both. This focus on dual-purpose items not only streamlines your space but also creates a harmonious environment where form and function coexist. By carefully selecting each object, you cultivate a living area that embodies the tranquility and utility inherent in the Japandi style.
Japandi style effortlessly blends the beauty and philosophies of both Eastern and Western design. By marrying the Japanese focus on balance and tranquility with the Scandinavian love for simplicity and functionality, Japandi offers an inviting space that is sure to make you feel both relaxed and inspired. With its minimalistic yet cozy approach, Japandi proves that modern homes can indeed be soulful sanctuaries. Look for next week’s post explaining the key components of Modern Classic style and how to create a space that embodies its essential elements.
About Me
At JFD Creative, we're all about crafting spaces that tell a story, each with its own unique identity. I'm Jessica Fischer, the heart behind the designs, and I've got a knack for mixing up furniture, lighting, art, and textures that not only add warmth but also a bit of soul to every project. My design eye comes from a life spent soaking up cultures in the Philippines, Japan, and Turkey, which means I love throwing in a splash of color, a touch of modernist charm, or a piece with a history that speaks. Whether it's working with beloved items my clients already have or starting from scratch, I draw from my colorful experiences and my formal training at the New York School of Interior Design.