April 17, 2023 | Updated: 18 April 2023
Neutral colours, functional spaces and the use of plants and flowers are the keynotes of this approach to decor. Japandi style blends the simple forms of Japanese decoration with the neutral tones of Scandinavian style, creating harmonious spaces infused with a sense of peace.
Today we reveal the minimalist foundations of this approach and some suggestions for applying it in your home, creating spaces that project visual calm and a refined style.
The Japandi style comprises a blend of minimalist Japanese design and mid-twentieth century Scandinavian modernity. They are two mutually complementary styles, based on what design is, promoting a holistic lifestyle that is expressed through order and harmony.
Although it has minimalist influences, the Japandi style and Japandi decor do not require you to throw everything away or empty your rooms. It is more a question of establishing order, choosing certain materials and decorating with what we already have.
As a starting point, here are some touches that define the Japandi style and will help you create the right atmosphere in each room:
- Simplicity. In the Japandi style, we aim to achieve a balance between natural and minimalist. It is thus essential to choose furniture with clean lines that gives the space an air of simplicity and elegance.
– Materials. Japandi furniture is usually made of natural wood such as oak, walnut or birch, complemented by soft, neutral tones in the upholstery and finishes. The idea is to create a warm, welcoming atmosphere, without sacrificing the simplicity and elegance that characterise the style.
– La disposición. In Japandi decor, it is important to eliminate clutter to achieve a sense of visual harmony in the room. The layout of the furniture and the choice of colours can contribute to this feeling. It is advisable to opt for built-in cupboards instead of free-standing units to create a greater sense of spaciousness.
- Blending styles. Combine traditional pieces with more modern items. For example, a trunk you have inherited and a vintage lamp with a contemporary dresser.
- Plants and flowers. It has been shown that some plants eliminate toxins from the air. The same effect is achieved with fresh flowers, thanks to the fragrance and colour they add to a room. Plants add the finishing touch to Japandi decor.
- Perfumed candles and aromas. Use these accessories to create soft, delicate smells that add a sensation of comfort and well-being.
- Natural materials. Bamboo, esparto grass, reeds and raffia have an aroma of their own that recalls nature. They are ideal for accessories such as carpets, lamps or armchairs.
- Lighting. This is a decisive factor in the Japandi style. Take advantage of any source of natural light. If you want to hang curtains, use a light fabric or bamboo blinds to create an air of intimacy.
- Combination. The choice of colours is essential for creating a Japandi-style space. The colours that predominate in this style are white, grey and neutral tones, plus light pastel colours. The way these colour palettes reflect the light in the room gives a sense of spaciousness and luminosity.
- Less is more. The colour palette must be consistent and limited, to create a sense of visual harmony and avoid sensory overload. One way to achieve this is to use different shades of the same colour throughout the room, which creates an effect of depth and subtlety.
The Japandi style is characterised by the use of wood for furniture and floors, or by the inclusion of elements that imitate its texture, such as wood-effect tiles. Woollen rugs are used to bring warmth. Natural materials such as cane, rattan and reeds make a major contribution to the organic feel of the decor, together with lighting, accessories and other decorative elements. It is important to avoid putting paintings on the walls, as the layout and decor of the space is considered a work of art in itself.
This style of decoration is perfect for bedrooms, as harmony and minimalism have a restful effect. The choice of the different elements is essential for creating the right atmosphere. In Japandi bedrooms, natural materials, clean lines and plain muted colours create a sense of physical and mental well-being.
The bed is clearly the most important item in a Japandi bedroom. This style is associated with rest for the body and mind. Here are some recommendations for preparing your bed:
- Invest in a quality mattress with a firm base.
- Use organic fabrics, such as cotton and linen, for bedding, as they help regulate body temperature and moisture naturally.
- Pillows should be soft and fluffy, and provide good support for the neck.
- Use the base of the bed as storage space. This will help you to achieve a minimalist environment, reducing the number of objects you see around you.
- Position the bed according to the other elements in the Japandi bedroom. Avoid placing it opposite the door.
Japandi style bathrooms are very functional and have little decoration, which helps create a unique sense of lightness that allows the body to enter a state of total relaxation and disconnection. They become a haven for self-care, where design, user well-being and practicality are paramount.
Here are three tips for creating a Japandi bathroom:
As the epicentre of the house, the kitchen must meet certain conditions to remain clean and welcoming, in line with the Japandi style. Here are some ideas for you to create a Japandi kitchen:
- For kitchen furniture, choose designs with natural finishes inspired by the texture of wood or natural stone.
- Combine the light delicate wood typical of Scandinavian decor with the dark colours of Japanese furniture.
- In the Japandi style, each piece of furniture is designed to occupy its space, so don't overload the kitchen with furniture.
- Adequate storage capacity is a must for any kitchen: have drawers with plenty of space. In Japandi style kitchens, it is also important to use systems that conceal household appliances, to create a space that looks clean and tidy.
- The room should have as much natural light as possible, allowing you to enjoy the views while you cook. If you need to add artificial light, make sure it is soft and warm to create a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
The living room is one of the rooms where we spend most time, especially in winter. To get the most out of a Japandi living room opt for a neutral colour palette, using earthy, wood, grey, beige or white tones. You can add some touches of colour with lamps, carpets, dark coloured ceramics or other decorative features. This contrast will add personality to your Japandi living room.
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