Lured by warm woods, earthy colors and a minimalist, calming vibe, homeowners are embracing Japandi design. This decision is largely due to its tranquil aesthetic, but because it also contributes to health and wellness at home and supports sustainable choices.<\/p>\n
Japandi design embraces the concept that home is meant to be a sanctuary from chaos in the outer world, offering a built environment that promotes rest and relaxation with key design elements.<\/p>\n
What is Japandi Design?<\/strong><\/p>\n \u201cJapandi design combines Japanese minimalism with the functionality of Scandinavian design. Incorporating natural materials in a clean, uncluttered design introduces Japanese concepts like wabi-sabi, which finds beauty in imperfection to create a serene and inviting space,\u201d says WELL and LEED accredited interior designer Sarah Barnard.<\/p>\n Japandi\u2019s influences draw from Danish-based Hygge. Hygge goes beyond a curated aesthetic to prescribe a lifestyle where gratitude, cozy, calm, togetherness with loved ones and mental and physical health are priorities.<\/p>\n In addition to good-for-you activities, such as immersing in nature and mindfully enjoying the company of loved ones, Hygge includes products and home d\u00e9cor. These combine to foster awareness, gratitude and peace and include fashion, furnishings, materials, and simple design principles.<\/p>\n A Hygge-styled home features rustic woods, for their simple but meaningful contribution to d\u00e9cor and a largely monochromatic color mix, with an emphasis on cozy textiles and a connection with nature.<\/p>\n Meanwhile, the Japanese philosophy of wabi-sabi is inspired by the authentic beauty of imperfection, the power of being mindful and present, and going with the flow of life cycles and nature. It is also influenced by the elegant minimalism of traditional Japanese cultural style.<\/p>\n In an interior design context, with wabi-sabi, design choices must be intentional and purposeful. For example, there is a lack of wasted space, as well as decorative pieces that don\u2019t offer a dual purpose, either practically or emotionally.<\/p>\n Japandi design fuses these elements from Hygge and wabi-sabi to create function-first, sustainable design for a sanctuary at home.<\/p>\n Why is Japandi Design So Popular Right Now?<\/strong><\/p>\n One of the reasons that Japandi design is so popular is due to the way it mingles with other hot d\u00e9cor trends, including biophilia, fusing indoor\/outdoor connections through design and creating spaces that support health and wellness at home.<\/p>\n \u201cToday\u2019s homebuyers are interested in functional indoor\/outdoor living spaces that are tranquil and feature natural elements, which are the core philosophy of Japandi design,\u201d says Brad Blank, president of Tri Pointe Homes\u2019 DC Metro Division.<\/p>\n Also, as Blank explains, the design trend is growing alongside homeowners\u2019 desire to create beautiful multi-purpose spaces to support live\/work\/play\/learn at home.<\/p>\n \u201cMany remote workers also love Japandi because its approach to minimalism and simplicity creates a clean, uncluttered space and promotes a sense of mindfulness and intentionality,\u201d says Blank.<\/p>\n Japandi Design, Biophilia and Health and Wellness<\/strong><\/p>\n \u201cBiophilic design, a key aspect of Japandi design, inspires mindfulness and contentment through our innate desire to connect with nature,\u201d says Barnard.<\/p>\n \u201cIncorporating unique natural materials such as wood paneling, beautiful stone countertops, and large windows that provide ample natural light creates bright indoor spaces. This promotes a sense of calm by establishing a tangible connection to the surrounding environment,\u201d she says.<\/p>\n In addition to leaning heavily on natural materials and a minimalist aesthetic, Japandi design encourages timeless choices versus trends, with a focus on craftmanship and quality, all of which combine to reduce homeowner footprint.<\/p>\n \u201cBy advocating for fewer, multifunctional pieces, Japandi promotes mindful consumption. The use of eco-friendly materials such as wood, bamboo and natural fibers, combined with high-quality, durable furniture and decor, ensures longevity and reduces the need for frequent replacements,\u201d aiding with sustainability, says Blank.<\/p>\n Japandi Design Style Tips<\/strong><\/p>\n As an overarching theme, Japandi design starts with making intentional choices that stimulate the senses and encourage you to be present in a peaceful environment.<\/p>\n Here are some style tips :<\/p>\n Smart Storage Color Scheme Natural Materials Invest in Quality Fuse Indoor\/Outdoor Connection Soft Lighting Textured D\u00e9cor Wall D\u00e9cor
\nWith a focus on clean lines, easy accessibility and no clutter, storage is an essential component of Japandi.
\nWooden storage is ideal, made of warm wood with texture, such as oak, maple or walnut. A wooden sideboard with textured cabinetry, or built-in shelving with fluted cabinet fronts are both stylish choices.
\nAlso look at ways to incorporate storage (and cut down on clutter) in multi-purpose furniture, such as with lift-up ottomans, coffee tables, or under-bed storage.<\/p>\n
\nJapandi is mostly monochromatic, and muted, although you will see variations. The main colors are earthy and warm, such as browns, beiges, creams, ivories, with soft nature-inspired blues and greens.<\/p>\n
\nJapandi design relies less on color for aesthetic impact, and more on material choices that layer with visual interest. Natural materials add to the calm vibe, while adding that subtle but striking texture. Stone, bamboo and rattan are all popular.
\nOne of the most-used materials is wood, for flooring, furniture and as a way of introducing natural color and warmth into a space. Wood-slatted walls, wooden cladding and fluted details are all stylish.
\nTake advantage of Zen vibes of Japandi in the primary bath, with a stone tub or tile. Wood-look tiles are also popular. In the kitchen, combine natural stone countertops with bamboo flooring.<\/p>\n
\nThe Japandi vibe is slow and steady, with a respect for the authenticity that comes with time. Invest in higher-quality furnishings and accents that feature excellent craftmanship and timeless style. It\u2019s worth spending a little more for something that will last, and focus on main pieces, such as sofas, dining tables and bedroom furniture.<\/p>\n
\nEstablishing a strong awareness of nature, even while indoors is an important part of Japandi style. Keep window treatments to a minimum. Opt for sliding glass doors or retractable walls. Choose indoor\/outdoor flooring that can extend from the inside out for design continuity. Be sure to incorporate plants and greenery inside, for color, and to mimic the experience of being outside.<\/p>\n
\nChoose lighting that casts a soft glow for cozy ambience, such as paper lanterns and fixtures made from natural materials, such as rattan, with sleek and minimal, but warm, profiles. Choose LED bulbs to make fixtures sustainable.<\/p>\n
\nLean into texture, both tactile and visually, when choosing textiles. Choose plush seating, covered with natural linen or boucl\u00e9, along with accent pillows and a selection of cozy throws spread across seating, inviting you to curl up and relax.
\nElect for d\u00e9cor choices that offer an authentic patina, such as live-edge tables or unique earthenware for accents.<\/p>\n
\nIn keeping with the minimalist vibe, walls should be relatively bare, except for a few well-placed pieces of artwork. Go for black and white, or textured pieces fashioned from natural materials, such as wood, plants or seashell.<\/p>\n