The Japandi interior design trend and how to do it right

Drawing on the characteristics of wabi-sabi – the Japanese principle of finding beauty in imperfections – and melding them with the warmth of Scandinavian style, the Japandi interior design trend delivers a soulful look that’s simple, light and playful.

Like nature itself, Japandi style is an aesthetic that continues to endure, such is the pared-back palette of warm whites, minimal timber finishes, lean furniture silhouettes with the occasional sleek black accent. Fabrics are drawn from nature, including flecked linens, 100% wool rugs and natural fibres, juxtaposed with furnishings in neutral textured stone, timber, and polished concrete.

The lack of fuss that comes with Japandi style is being embraced by interior design lovers new and old. Established designers with a penchant for minimalism appreciate the warmth Japandi décor imbues into a space. Meanwhile, for Steph and Gian Ottavio‘s design studio, Japandi Estate, the less-is-more approach forms the backbone of their design practice. (It also saw them take out the biggest win in the history of The Block.)

Listen to Steph Ottavio on The Edit podcast:

Understand the makings of Japandi, and how you can bring it to life in your home.

What is Japandi?

The pared-back aesthetics of Japanese and Scandinavian design come together in a union of inviting simplicity to create Japandi style. A connection to nature is key to this look that is gently bathed in simplicity and harmony. On The Edit podcast, Steph Ottavio described it as: “Warmth, texture, cosiness, and connection with the outdoors, combined with clean lines, minimalism, [and] a decluttered life.”

Here, we explain the design elements that make up Japandi style and how to strip back your decor to achieve this look – no matter how large or small your space.

Evocative artworks above the bed are all characteristics of Scandi interiors and mostly connected to nature. Bedlinen features natural linens, leather and fabrics in neutral tones. (Photography: Alex Reinders)

What are the characteristics of Japandi style?

Less is more when creating spaces to reflect Japandi style for an overall atmosphere of calm. While this is a look grounded in simplicity, there are several essential elements to get right.

1. A neutral, monochromatic colour palette

Natural linen, calming white, cream and touches of soft grey-green form the background to accent colours that speak to nature – sculptural branches, foliage and shapes in objects and artwork.

2. Natural materials

Timber features in furnishings, on walls and floors and are either very pale or deep and dark to harmonise with simple black and white accents in art and architecture. Textiles are formed from natural fibres, including linen, pure wool and soft cottons with highlights of natural leather.

3. Functional simplicity

Furniture, objects and fixtures offer functional simplicity without embellishment and are also grounded in nature – made from materials such as wood, stone and leather. A carefully crafted ceramic teapot is handmade to pour with perfection, while a low-slung armchair beckons relaxation and repose, placed alone by a window with a view to nature.

4. Minimal, handcrafted furnishings

Handmade furniture is a cornerstone of Japandi style, with antiques and the imperfections of time and use imparting imperfect, wabi-sabi characteristics. Worn timbers and textiles, selected for both purpose and pleasure are fundamental.

5. Serene spaces with natural light

The presence of natural light in interior spaces plays into the Japandi aesthetic and removes the need for extra light fittings. Large windows with views to nature lend themselves beautifully to this style.

Soft tones, rounded timber battens and floating shelves contribute to an overall sense of refinement. ((Photography: Louise Roche / Styling: Kylie Jackes))

What is the difference between Japandi and Scandinavian interior design?

The purity of Japandi style speaks to both Japanese and Scandinavian design in essentials. The inclusion of sculptural forms in art and floral arrangements is distinctly Japanese, while the absence of words or motifs is more familiar to the Scandinavian style. Both channel the beauty of nature with clean lines and uncomplicated construction, softened by playful curves in furnishings.

Monochrome accessories mix with natural elements, such as sculptural branches, foliage and oriental shapes

Is Japandi style here to stay?

Modest in execution and timeless in essence, Japandi style is steeped in history that will stand the test of time. With carefully curated collected pieces, hand-finished surfaces and the absence of clutter, spaces are inviting and personal, minimal but not stark.

The soulful, neutral base of a Japandi style interior can be accented with soft colour as trends evolve and change. Smokey greys and blue give way to mint greens that may fade to sage and eucalyptus tones. Black-framed windows and doors are minimal and focus on functionality over fuss.

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