The Japandi trend taking the design world by storm

As we endeavour to navigate our way through the current and ever-increasing turmoil that is modern existence, internally we are crying out for calm. That silent pause that tells us there is balance in our lives. There’s a need for it. A longing. Just look at the trends. The pursuit of yoga, mindfulness, meditation and everything Zen is at full throttle - practices that focus on transcending the chaos in search of peace. Wellness is the new buzzword and everything from what we consume to how we relax is key. Tranquil, Asiatic influences are at the pinnacle of it all. We are searching for things that speak to the soul, promote health and quieten our minds. So it’s not surprising that interior design is stepping up to the plate and mirroring these sentiments in a movement called Japandi.

Embracing the serenity of Japanese and Scandinavian design

Victor Hugo said, “In calmness lies true pleasure.” And it resonates. There’s a simplistic beauty in paring back the clutter, stripping our surrounds bare and just being. It creates a connection with our core and an opportunity to examine our existential selves - to really find our Chi. The Japanese have been doing it for millennia. And in more recent times, the Scandinavians have adopted this philosophy too. In both cultures, there’s an unspoken agreement that minimalism, intent and function trump excess. And it’s evident in how they choose to live.

Japanese interior design

Japanese homes exude a sense of peace and stillness that almost suggests the arrestment of time. They embrace their heritage and honour ancient customs, order, serenity and an appreciation for natural beauty. And their spaces are all created with those fundamentals in mind. Think everything soft and soulful: gentle lighting, open spaces, beautiful, hand-crafted furniture and a bountiful infusion of traditional plants. Their designs embrace the practice of “Ma”, where every item has both a purpose and a perfect placement. And somehow, this balance evokes an emotional buy-in that makes one feel at peace in the certainty that you’re exactly where you’re meant to be.

Scandinavian interior design

Scandinavian lifestyles encompass practicality and minimalism through a blend of architectural lines, contrasts, textures, modernity and soothing tones. They celebrate the magnificence of sparseness with walls left bare or cladded in wood, organic floors and muted colour palettes. The furniture is sleek and current with understated curves, soft outlines and tapered legs. And they subscribe to the intention of “hygge” (pronounced “hoo-gah”), which aims to encompass cosiness, wellbeing and balance within an enclosed space. The result: connection, simplicity and true elegance.

What is Japandi?

Japandi is fast becoming the new paradigm in modern design. A seamless fusion of both Japanese and Scandinavian style elements, it’s currently taking the world by storm. At its core lies a blend of innovation and traditionalism that speaks of functionality, simplicity, grace and, most importantly, calm. And a nod to both hygge and wabi-sabi: the acceptance that every space is perfectly as it should be despite its imperfections. Timeless and restrained, it’s about finding a balance between nature and design.

How to create a Japandi-inspired home

If you’re as excited about Japandi as we are, here are some pointers that will help you create a flawless aesthetic.

High quality, organic materials with a focus on sustainable woods

From wall panels to floors and furniture, wood is one of the fundamentals of the Japandi style. Cane, oak, bamboo and rattan are all on-trend and textiles like organic linen, muslin and brushed cotton can be included in cushions and bedding. Whatever your selection, the emphasis is on sustainability.

Simple, modern, functional furniture

Outstanding craftsmanship, functionality and unsurpassed quality are what defines Japandi-style furniture. Search for items that are sleek and modern in wood, pale greys or creams. Avoid anything bold and bulky – beds, tables and sofas should be low to the ground, minimalistic and devoid of frills. Draw inspiration from this Design #5 Bed or the Design #37 Sideboard by Logo.

A natural colour palette

Make sure your colour palette stays neutral with hues like beige, cream, white, toned-down reds and pastels – anything that aligns with the outside world. Use grey, green and navy in moderation as accents only. Warm shades of white on your walls will accentuate the notion of elegant simplicity and make your spaces look clean.

Focus on flooring

If you’re going for a Japandi look, hardwood floors are in. Adorn them with a weave mat or an area rug in shades of beige or be a little more daring with a patterned carpet in black and white. Eichholtz has some wonderful designs that will elevate your spaces.

Functional accessories

Accessories should have a purpose. Use natural materials such as glass, paper, clay, concrete and terra-cotta. And don’t forget the all-important plants! Choose ferns, potted bamboo or beautiful bonsais to help bring the outside in.

A gentle blend of textures and patterns

Introduce patterns sparingly in the form of wallpapers, ottomans or cushions. Use delicate, muted designs that embrace Japanese ideologies and mirror nature. Think along the lines of leaf motifs, ocean waves or feathers. And don’t be afraid to texture and contrast – it’s an important element of the overall look. Dark cabinetry, work desks and bedside tables will emphasise the clean lines. Have a look at the Bo-Em 001 sideboard or the Vintme C 020 coffee table from Altitude for some contemporary ideas.

Declutter

An essential aspect of Japandi is the lack of clutter, so make sure you keep your odds and ends to a minimum or store them in big wicker baskets or on simple wooden shelving. The idea is to move away from the chaos and create a place that encourages peaceful contemplation. Browse our website for a range of wonderful options.

Let’s talk Japandi at FCI London

Our expert designers are on top of their game and are up to speed with all the latest trends in 2022. So pop in for a cuppa and let’s talk Japandi designs for your home – we’re looking forward to it!