Japandi (or Scandinese) is one of the newest current trends in decor this year, and it’s here to stay. What’s Japandi? This is a mix of two styles: modern and rustic Scandinavian and traditional elegance of Japanese decor. It’s not surprising that these two styles are mixed into one, they both are about creating functional interiors with some statement pieces and not abundance of decor. Together these styles give an amazing take on minimalism being cozier and comfier than it: Nordic style adds cozy rustic touches, while Japanese design brings a more varied color palette and warmth. Interested? Then let’s have a look at some principles you may use to build such an interior.
Contrasting Colors
Scandinavian style is characterized by a mix of light, neutral hues, natural woods and pops of pastel accents. Japanese style is built from stained or light-colored woods surrounded by eye-catching additions of black. So to get a Japandi room, create a mix of dark hues and light woods, the accents are to be monochromatic, too though if you want to add some vibrant touches in with a natural feel, for example, house plants. Try a timeless black+white+light-colored wood for a gorgeous modern and cozy room.
A contrasting living room with light-colored wood, black and white furniture.
Light-colored wood, cork, metal and a black glass sliding door.
The clean white interior is enriched with rich-colored wood and touches of black.
A comfy living room with a white backdrop and wooden furniture of various stains - darker and lighter ones.
A Japandi living room with whites and light-colored wooden furniture, cognac textiles and sades of green for a cool look.
A comfy nook in dove grey, black and light-colored wood is a fantastic Japandi idea.
A beautiful kitchen in graphite grey and white plus light-colored wood and black lamps.
Pure white contrasts the natural wood of rather a saturated shade here.
Black walls, dove grey and light-colored wood are a gorgeous combo for a cabin.
Choose Furniture Of Both Styles
Both Scandinavian and Japanese furniture features clean lines and functionality but there are some differences: Nordic furniture is usually light-colored, and Japanese furniture often shows off darker shades and more elegant shapes. Use a mixture of furniture – some pieces in one style, some in the other, don’t hesitate to use different shades of wood and both curved and straight lines, they will create an interest in the space.
A platform bed is traditional for Japanese interiors, and nightstands are Scandi-like though colored.
Light wood chairs with grey upholstery and a wooden windowsill bench.
A Japanese-styled sideboard and some mid-century chairs upholstered with cognac leather.
A low Japanese bed and a functional modern chair, black textiles create a contrast.
minimalist white cabinets and a stained dining table plus upholstered benches for a chic space.
A traditional Japanese bed and some creative wooden furniture that contrasts white walls.
A low daybed, a geometric dark stained table and a creative loveseat.
A low coffee table and a round ottoman are neighboring comfy upholstered furniture.
A simple bamboo cabinet and upholstered chairs in amber and grey.
A cork bench and some black metal touches make the space textural and eye-catching.
Add Statement Accessories
You won’t see many accessories either in Nordic or in Japanese spaces as these styles are all about functionality. To bring Japandi style to your space, choose some statement accessories very carefully and take just a few. Rely on natural elements such as plants to enliven the interior, they will be a nice idea for both styles. Another idea is making accent with chic natural materials, for example, stone. if you are decorating a bathroom, you may put the bathtub on a large stone slab with a raw edge – a strong wow effect is guaranteed! In another space you may place some stone stands where you want and put something on display.
The space is accentuated with grey stone stands and a potted plant.
A Japandi bathroom with black and light-colored wood is highlighted with a natural stone slab and countertop.
A simple floating vanity and a black cabinet plus an upholstered bench.
Simple white cabinets and open shelves and a light-colored woven bench.