August 2023 | Japandi You are More than Welcome

A combination of Japanese and Scandinavian interior design aesthetics, “Japandi” Style Is the Minimalist, Multi-Cultural Interior Design wave that we absolutely adore.

Centered on tranquil and functional interiors, the core of this aesthetics is focused on finding beauty in imperfection.

It is the East-meets-West design movement. By blending Japanese artistic elements and wabi-sabi philosophy with Scandinavian comfort and warmth, this trend is the perfect marriage. After all, historically, both Japanese and Scandinavian design cultures are focused on simplicity, organic elements, calmness and sustainability.

Japandi interiors are all about earthy materials, sand and nature-inspired color hues and textures. Light browns, cream, olive-greens and off whites are the main color palettes. Soft-touch fabrics and cotton-linen styled furnishings are a must. This design style has a minimal, clean-lines approach.

Uncluttered spaces beamed with natural light, balanced interior decoration of wood, rocky textures and handmade items from different cultures. After all, the love for craftsmanship is one of Japandi’s central characteristics. Intentional and often functional decor like teapots, books, ceramic cups and vases are essential choices.

Have in mind that everything has to be orderly, but not necessarily symmetrical; exactly like nature.

Plants and greenery play a pivotal role to the aesthetics wave too. Monster Sterlicia and banana are my personal favorites as they give a fresh and exotic note to any space, both interior and exterior.

Perfect examples of Japandi style are two resorts that made it to HOTEL SS 2023 List this Year. Aman in New York City and Rooster in Antiparos, Greece are ‘Japandi material’. The distance between these two locations, actually proves the broad cultural celebration that this design style evoces.

Not planning to travel anytime soon? Then bring Japandi home. First things first step into less-is-more mindset by decluttering. Opt for vintage or reclaimed pieces or something original or handmade rather than mass produced. Take a walk at a vintage flea market or look through small shops that sell old city maps and gravures. I guarantee you will discover some gems there. Then give them the presentation they deserve by framing them using a wide, crisp white mat passepartout and beveled black or dark brown frame.

As we have discussed before the most recent interior design trends break down the barriers between indoors and outdoors so pick large windows and opt for indoor-outdoor living sections like sunrooms or patios if you are currently designing your home. Put a fireplace as a focal point in the living room, use candles, or add soft blankets for entertaining and gatherings with friends and family.

If you want to start slowly by investing in decoration then go ahead—invest in a Arteriors Odessa Lamp, a sleek wooden table, and some wabi-sabi pottery. Japandi is a style that shows no sign of stopping. And I couldn’t be more grateful for that.

ELENI NODARAKI

Creative Editorial Director

Write to me on eleni@decorationrunway.com