How to create a Japandi-inspired home

One of the key interior décor design trends to emerge post-pandemic is Japandi – a combination of modern Japanese and Scandinavian design principles to create earthy and minimalist interior spaces.

The fusion of East and West style provides the perfect springboard for those looking to create order in their home, with stylish furniture pieces that provide a cosy and elegant feel.

Declutter the space

“Japandi draws its inspiration from a combination of Scandinavian and Japanese designs. The core fundamental is minimalism. So the best place to start in your own home is to declutter. Reduce the number of items in the room to the essential items only; this will lay a foundation for the calm and serenity the movement embodies.” – Aidan Bennetts, director of AB Design

Sustainability is key

“While the movement is largely aesthetic, its ethos lies in sustainability. Make sure you keep this in mind by repurposing items where possible and recycling, and always shop for the sustainable option where possible. Ask yourself the question: ‘Do I need this?’ before you purchase.” – Aidan Bennetts, director of AB Design

Include natural materials

“Japandi design merges Scandinavian functionality with Japanese minimalism to create a feeling of comfortable, functional simplicity. This design style is aesthetically pleasing, combining natural materials, earth tones and clean lines for a cohesive, balanced look. The key is to create uncluttered spaces with a tranquil atmosphere.

“Start with clay, glass, concrete and wood elements, and combine this with natural materials such as cotton, linen and greenery. High-quality minimalist furniture and clean lines complete the look for a comfortable, bright and welcoming Japandi space.” – Johann De Waal, marketing manager at KARE Johannesburg

Storage solutions

“Japandi is all about modern simplicity and creating a tranquil and harmonious feel. The lack of clutter encourages open space and clean lines. Use storage solutions to hide clutter, like wooden shelving and baskets or wooden slatted screens and planters to hide busy areas.” – Loredana Morton, interior designer and owner of Loredana Morton Interiors

Neutral colours and materials

“Focus on bringing the natural world in by using muted tones and organic, natural textiles like rattan, wood, linen and stone. Neutral tones can be juxtaposed with dark hues to create a contrast that still feels harmonious and natural.” – Loredana Morton, interior designer and owner of Loredana Morton Interiors

Low-lying furniture

“Japandi furniture tends to be low-lying. The intention of this trend is to be closer to the Earth. Try to incorporate low benches, armchairs, beds and coffee tables. Be sure, though, to leave plenty of open space.” – Cheryl Du Preez, visual merchandising coordinator at Cielo

Wellness in the bedroom

“Well-being is a fundamental characteristic of the Japandi trend. It is not about perfection, but rather about seeking beauty in simplicity. Your bedroom should be restful and relaxing, so soft and soothing textures and natural, earthy tones are the order of the day. Create a quintessentially Japandi bedroom by using warm wood finishes, natural colours and mineral pigments to bring harmony into your space.” – Cheryl Du Preez, visual merchandising coordinator at Cielo

Featured image: KARE Johannesburg