Japandi Interior Design – Rustic Minimalism for your home (2024)

What would a Scandinavian-Japanese interior design blend look like? It seems that some interior designers asked that very same question back in 2017 when the Japandi interior design style came into existence.

Japandi is a word derived from a combination between Japanese and Nordic. This means some rustic, traditional elements get combined with the clean Scandinavian minimalism to give you a functional and beautiful outcome.

If you’re interested in Japandi interior design, you’ll need to understand some basic principles and trends that the hybrid methodology has birthed. Japandi can work really well for all kinds of flats and condos because you’re in complete control of the separate elements and how these get brought together.

As a Singapore interior design company that pays attention to trends and the newest possibilities out there, we were immediately drawn to the benefits that stem from a japandi project execution.

The Japanese aesthetic and the timelessness of Scandinavian minimalism are brought together to create a home décor that’s warm, inviting, free of clutter and functional at the same time.

Both Japanese and Nordic interior designs highlight minimalism and function in one way or another. They both focus on spaces that have a few statement pieces rather than an over-abundance of décor and ornaments.

At the same time, the aesthetic of Japanese and Scandinavian interior design is very different. This difference is the one that makes the hybrid style so interesting and exciting. Japanese spaces are sleek and often characterised by rustic details. Scandinavian interior design, on the other hand, is quite neutral. It relies on subdued colour palettes and occasionally, such projects can appear pretty sterile. The addition of some Japanese warmth is a great opportunity to counter and balance some of the surgical precision that’s defining for Scandinavian minimalism.

So, how do you bring the two concepts together in the most harmonious way? Here are a couple of suggestions and pointers for a japandi-inspired home remodelling.

The selection of the right colour palette(s) is one of the easiest options for marrying the two styles.

Scandinavian interior design is neutral. Beiges, whites, light blues and greys are very typical. These can benefit from a colourful accent like a red and black floral art print on the wall. It’s playful and it falls in line with the Japanese aesthetic.

A mix of dark, neutral hues and light wooden elements (untreated) is also a good option for putting together a japandi interior. A white Scandinavian interior can easily be enriched through the addition of saturated wooden elements, leather and other natural materials recognised for their warmth.

To maintain the vibrant feel of both the Japanese and the Scandinavian interior design concepts, keep the colour accents monochromatic. This way, your home décor will look lively and stylish at the same time, instead of being exceptionally busy.

Here’s where things start to get interesting.

A japandi interior design will benefit from furniture that falls under both of the parent styles.

Both Japanese and Scandinavian furniture are characterised by clean lines. There are, however, some key differences. Japanese furniture is often dark and saturated in colour. Scandinavian furniture tends to be lighter and it can also prioritise materials like metal.

Using different shades of wood is one of the easiest ways to bring the japandi concept together. It’s also ok to have some pieces of furniture that are more curved and shapely, alongside straight lines.

A platform bed is one very typical example of the Japanese bed. It can be combined with minimalist, Nordic nightstands and a functional vanity made of a different colour wood.

A wooden window bench is a fun Nordic element. It can be added to the living room alongside upholstered chairs that are a bit more comfortable and suitable for relaxation.

A functional modern chair, minimalist white cabinets and a wooden bench (you can have it upholstered) could also be added to the living or dining areas for a beautiful effect.

As already mentioned, the two styles are known for their functionality and only featuring a handful of statement pieces.

Because of this specific, the statement pieces should be chosen very carefully.

Plush rugs, throw pillows and cosy blankets are typical secondary elements in a Nordic interior design project. Vases and screens are common in Japanese-inspired homes. You can have a nice mix of both. To keep the aesthetic consistent, choose high quality pieces and natural materials.

You can also feature potted plants or a couple of prints/photographs in the living room.

There are many other ways to add statement pieces to the interior.

A stone stand that holds an antique vase is an example. The same applies to a marble shelf that holds a varnished tree root or a carving made out of a branch or tree bark.

You can really experiment with the typical elements of the two interior design styles to create the fun and welcoming hybrid feel. Still, try to exercise some restrained in order to get a balanced outcome.

Home Guide has the home interior design team that has the knowledge and the skillset to bring a japandi project to existence.

We can work on a tiny apartment or a much larger living space, as the hybrid interior design philosophy is equally suitable for both.

Don’t hesitate to contact us today and share your home remodelling ideas with us. We will carry that inspiration throughout the execution of your project. also don”t forget to take a look at our residential interior design portfolio!