Home sweet home… Japandi edition

It’s time for some cleanliness, zen and peace in the home and that’s why this post focusses on the Japandi interior design style. It’s a style that combines the well-known Scandinavian style with a more Japanese approach.

What do the Scandinavian and the Japanese style have in common?

There is a good reason that these two styles are being combined so often. Both styles are known for their clean lines and both lean more to minimalism than for instance the boho style. There is generally only furniture that is essential and there is not a lot of decoration in both styles. They also use light colours as the base of the room and natural woods and shapes. In most of the homes I’ve seen with this style, the more dominant style that is being used is the Scandinavian style. Japanese elements are inserted into the room afterwards. However, doing it the other way around can also result in beautiful rooms.

How are the Scandinavian style and the Japanese style different from each other?

The main difference between these styles is in the color schemes. Although the base is often light in both styles, the Japanese style creates a lot of contrast, whereas the Scandinavian style does not. Scandi is all about pastel colours and letting as much light flow as possible. The Japanese style prefers to play with light much more.

An example of this is in the types of woods the styles use. The woods used in Scandinavian are mostly beech, ash, and pine. The woods used in the Japanese style can also be those, but they add darker woods as well. Another difference in the woods is that the Scandinavian design also paints the wood sometimes, whereas the Japanese style prefers to only taint the wood. On top, the Japanese style also likes to add some rougher woods every once in a while, whereas Scandi does not.

The beauty of combining these worlds

As stated, although these styles have significant differences, they’re also very similar. Both philosophies behind the interior design styles focus on creating a calming environment that is functional and very natural. It’s a great style when you prefer a clean, calm home that is still welcoming, thanks to the natural materials used. Also, the use of light that’s characteristic for both styles makes your room seem larger and more fresh. That’s why I personally love this style in my bedroom. Whereas I’m a fan of busier styles in the kitchen or living room, I like my bedroom and bathroom more minimal and clean.

Both styles also work with a lot of hemp and bamboo. The use of all these natural materials and the desire to stay away from clutter and unnecessary stuff make this style also very environmentally friendly. It’s deters you from buying too much stuff (reduce) and uses very sustainable materials that can grow easily and can be recycled. If you find this important, Japandi might be a great style for you!

The risks of Japandi

Having said all those positives about this interior decor style, there are some things to consider. The biggest one for me would be that it is a style that thrives on minimalism. This might not be doable for people with kids or people that live with others. Although it’s organised if you don’t have much stuff, sometimes you just need stuff and with this style it would be more difficult to neatly put it away. Therefore, I would recommend getting a few closed closets that fit the style and help you to put away things that don’t necessarily fit in otherwise.

Although there are some great furniture shops that embrace Japandi nowadays, it’s a relatively new style. Therefore it tends to be a little more expensive than just the Scandinavian style. This might be the reason that I’m often seeing 70% Scandi, 30% Japanese combinations and not as much the other way around. However, it is getting more popular. By choosing a couple of darker furniture pieces and maybe some black and white decorations, you can easily create the right vibe.

How I included Japandi in my home

If you’ve been reading more posts from me, you’ll probably know that I am not a minimalist by any means and thus, this style is not something that’s the main focus in my home. However, when redecorating my bedroom, I really wanted to create a more calming, peaceful space. This is why this room is actually very much Japandi.

I have one sage green wall, whereas the rest is white. My bed is Japanese in style with light wood and my decorations and nightstand are all bamboo. Some are made from light wood, some are painted dark brown and black to play with some contrast. I usually also have white or light-coloured bedding to create a clean look. I also have a lot of black and white artwork in my home by an artist that was inspired by Japanese art. This all adds some lightness and interest to my home as a whole.

What do you think about Japandi? Is it a style that fits your style and lifestyle needs? Let me know in the comments below! I hope you liked this post. If you want more content like this, please subscribe and get my free e-book to help you save money to buy new furniture. You can also find me on Instagram, Pinterest and Twitter, so you’ll never have to miss a new post.

Lots of love,

Lisa

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