Introducing Japandi – The Latest Interior Design Trend

If you were following interior design trends, you’ve definitely noticed the rising popularity of Japandi. This mix of Japanese and Scandinavian décor manages to tone down the extreme characteristics of both of these styles. By combining a minimalist, sleek and nature-fused theme with bold statement pieces, Japandi quickly managed to earn the title of a timeless trend. As it breaks the strict rules of the cold Nordic design and Zen-inspired environment, Japandi presents the best of both worlds. That’s why Japandi is so easy to introduce in any home.

1. Color palette

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Between the bright and exaggeratedly cold color scheme of Scandinavian style, and warm wood from the Japanese, Japandi makes a perfect common ground when it comes to color palette. In general, cooler pastel shades of pink, gray and green are warmed up with earthy details and wooden elements. You can mix these up however you want, just make sure that you can achieve the perfect balance between the two very different – yet complementary – color ranges. Pops of color can be introduced here and there as long as they don’t break the harmony and the minimalistic approach to the design.

2. Bold simplicity

Three words that could best describe this design are simple, functional and impactful. There’s no room for clutter in the Japandi home. Every object needs to have its place and purpose. Still, what makes Japandi so popular is probably the fact that furniture pieces themselves act as bold, statement accessories.

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Using raw forms in furniture design with very sharp and sleek lines minimizes the need of other décor details. Mixing and matching industrial-like pieces with rich timber or bamboo creates a very unique take on a modern and timeless décor.

3. Introducing accessories

Japandi style should look very clean, but warm and pleasant at the same time. These two features seem pretty contradictory, but they’re far from impossible to achieve. Even though you should keep accessories to the minimum, this doesn’t mean that you should completely avoid them. Curtains, rugs and decorative cushions can effectively break the overwhelming coldness of Scandinavian influence. Still, make sure to have plenty of natural sunlight as this is the main characteristic of both styles.

4. Plenty of greenery

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While you can use photo frames, paintings and figurines as additional touches to your overall décor, Japandi relies on the use of plants the most. Instead of using flowers and really colorful foliage for your interior, stick to the Zen theme. Bold simplicity is evident in this aspect as well. Opt for tall plants with sleek and elegant leaves that would draw attention with their strong presence and simple form. Of course, make sure that plant pots go well with your overall theme.

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5. Best ways to mix and match

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There are many ways you can mix and match the Scandinavian and Japanese décor in order to achieve the balanced Japandi look. Colors, materials as well as furniture’s height and form are ideal starting points. For example, you can use cooler pastel shades for your walls, yet install wooden flooring. Feel free to mix statement wooden coffee tables with urban chairs and sofas. Introduce earthy elements with accessories such as curtains and cushions. Keep the rug warm yet minimalist by choosing a fuzzy material in plain color. You can also experiment with asymmetrical height of furniture pieces in order to break the monotony of the layout.

As it leaves room for more warmth without disturbing the minimalist design, the fact that Japandi interior movement took the world by storm  hardly comes as a surprise. Even though it still has its décor rules and guidelines, this design leaves more room for customization compared to the very specific Scandinavian and Japanese design trends.