What Is The ‘Japandi' Style?

 

‘Japandi’ is a portmanteau of the words Japanese and Scandinavian, and has its roots in interior design. On their own, the two design styles already have a passionate following and have both influenced Celona London as a brand. Within the last few years, the Japandi movement has increasingly become more prominent and has been the style choice for many who want to create a comfortable, contemporary and stylish space. At first glance, one might struggle to see the connection between Japan and the region of Scandinavia; two completely different languages, cultures, environments and over 8,043km of land and water separating the two. But when it comes to design, they have more in common than you might think. Both Japanese and Scandinavian design are about simplicity, nature and the removal of noise. Japandi design marries the core elements of Scandinavian functionality and simplicity, with Japanese rustic minimalism. What you are left with is minimal, aesthetically pleasing and highly functional designs.

Who is this style for?

The beauty about the Japandi style, just like its originators, is that it is unobtrusive, universal, and timeless. It's great for those who love a bit of structure, with the organisational elements of the style creating a calming feel with its peeled back styling, natural materials and use of craftsmanship. For both residential and commercial spaces, the look and feel of a Japandi styled interior is warm, inviting and easy on the eye. Two brands that we feel really demonstrate the core elements of Japandi design are cafe Omotesando (Fitzrovia) and restaurant/retail spot Pantechnicon (Belgravia). If you have visited them before, you can certainly see the similarities. If you haven't, we highly recommend that you do. 

 

 

What are the features of Japandi design?

1. A calming and neutral colour palette. At the heart of the Japandi style is creating an environment that is calming and tranquil. Colours such as whites, greys, blacks and sage greens are frequently used.

2. Natural materials. Incorporating materials such as stone, greenery and especially natural woods are a staple when going for the Japandi aesthetic. This points to the heavy sustainability focus that underpins this movement. 

3. Organic forms and texture. Whilst simplicity is key, it is not by default but indeed by design. Products that feel and look organic with clean lines are both highly functional and aesthetically pleasing. Again, you will find objects made from natural materials to give the space that added texture.

4. Furnishing. Our favourite element as there are so many choices, especially when looking to bring this style into your home. The Japandi design style promotes hand made, organic pieces made from sustainable resources, from vases to cutlery to plant pots (to scented candles)!

In summary, Japandi fuses together form and function, with a focus on clean lines, neutral tones and sustainability. The ultimate aim is to create a warm, cosy and calming space that looks good and creates a sense of being. If you liked this post, be sure to read our post on ‘What is Scandinivian Design’.