Japandi Interior Style Guide
The definitive style guide to Japandi design
As widely published experts in Japandi design, Ward 5 Design has put together a style guide to Japandi style for anyone seeking to achieve this refined look in their home.
Japandi interior design is achieved by striking a stylistic balance between Scandinavian Hygge and Japanese Wabi Sabi. A well designed Japandi interior can give your home a sophisticated comfortable look that is both livable and well curated.
Rooted in simplicity and comfort, Japandi design focuses on creating functionality while embracing natural imperfection to create a feeling of sanctuary. This fusion creates a tailored blend of form and function. focusing on clean lines, bright spaces, and unobtrusive colors.
The Japandi Color Palette
In general, a Japandi color palette focuses on balance and symmetry over contrast. The use of warm neutral colors that are seen in nature can be ideal, but not always necessary. Balanced colors combined with swaths of crisp whites, allows your eyes view a space without much visual distraction.
This can color palette be created with dark colors using deep browns, greens, and even blacks. The focus on color choices should always be harmony over contrast, using hues that compliment each other rather than standing out. When brighter colors are incorporated, they are done so meaningfully and subtly.
Materials & Texture
Natural materials such as sisal, jute, linen and cork are excellent choices to mix in on large surfaces such as walls, floors, and windows. Using neutral colors that complement the Japandi furniture and accessories. Japandi style emphasizes sustainability. The prevalence of natural materials and simple designs makes it a excellent green decor style.
Floor Plan
Japandi floor plans should be arranged with purpose and flow in mind. Focus on easy movement throughout the room, and stay away from obstructions. Floor coverings such as rugs and floor pillows will aid in softening the space and add additional seating when needed. When planning a furniture layout, consider the purpose of the space and arrange furniture in line with that purpose. For example, a living room intended for family gatherings should have seating close together and angled toward one another to encourage conversation.
Shapes & Furniture
The perfect fusion of Japanese and Scandinavian design, Japandi design focuses on simplistic, minimalistic designs that are aesthetically pleasing but rooted in function. Clean lines, and minimal, yet well-curated, furnishings with a design that’s intentional, not sparse. Japandi accentuates beautiful craftsmanship with a focus on quality and handmade pieces over throwaway, cheap structures.
Sofas upholstered with durable linen or cotton denim will provide a comfortable richly textured place to gather. Full grain leather can also be used in upholstery which will create a slightly more luxurious look.
Storage and functional items are a key challenge in most interiors and the Japandi space is no exception. If furniture is floated in the room, look to place buffet cabinets behind sofas or buy a coffee table with added storage. This way you’ll have an intentional space for everything in your home.
When shopping for Japandi furniture, make sure each piece has both purpose and style. Seek out wood pieces that are finished with oil instead of polyurethane or that have been painted with a matte finish. Inquire about the materials used, and purchase items made made by hand from sustainable material sources.
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