Expert’s Guide to Japandi Interior Design | Castlery (2024)

“Woods are a must in the Japandi design style!” Adrika shares. Using wood is an integral part of Japandi design as it brings warmth, natural beauty, and a sense of connection to the space.

Opt for wooden flooring with a light or medium-toned finish. The natural grain and warmth of the wood create a solid foundation for the Japandi aesthetic.

Also, choose furniture pieces made from wood or featuring wooden accents. Light or medium-toned woods like oak, birch, or maple work well in Japandi interiors. Consider a wooden dining table, sideboard, or coffee table to anchor the space.

The Vincent Dining Table in Oak is perfect for the Japandi theme. Picture credits: @thenativespirit

“It’s also totally okay to mix and match different tones and wood types.” For example, combining light, medium, and dark wood finishes can create a harmonious and balanced look. Just ensure that the overall effect remains cohesive and does not overwhelm the space.

As mentioned earlier, Japandi interior design styles favor neutral palettes as they’re aligned with being Zen and simple. Opt for a neutral color scheme that includes soft earthy tones such as whites, grays, beiges, and browns. These colors create a serene and harmonious atmosphere.

“While the color palette is neutral, think about using different textural elements to create interest and depth in a room. Bouclés, linens, and cotton elements all work well in a Japandi home,” Adrika adds.

She also mentions that you shouldn’t be afraid of adding subtle pops of color - but sparingly - through accent pieces or artwork. “Muted greens and maroons are the perfect color combinations to maintain a feeling of calmness and highlight the space.”

Japandi design is rooted in minimalism. It involves creating a space that is uncluttered, free from excess, and focused on essential elements.

Other than decluttering your space, choose furniture and decor with clean lines and simple forms. Consider pieces with sleek silhouettes and geometric shapes over ornate or fussy designs. Opt for minimalist aesthetics, focusing on functionality and elegance.

@ohhmyy.home maintains a clean and uncluttered aesthetic. Pictured: The Ingrid Sherpa Chair.

Additionally, practice the concept of negative space, which is the empty or unoccupied areas in a room. Allow for breathing room between furniture and objects, creating a sense of openness and balance. Negative space contributes to the overall visual appeal of Japandi and highlights the importance of each individual element.

Wabi-Sabi is a key element that ties the Japandi look together. This Japanese concept celebrates imperfection and the beauty of natural aging.

Embrace the charm of handcrafted and artisanal items in your Japandi design. Look for ceramics, pottery, or textiles made by skilled artisans. Handmade objects often exhibit unique irregularities, textures, and subtle imperfections that celebrate the human touch.

Also, incorporate tactile textures that emphasize this aesthetic, like handmade paper or woven textiles. These materials bring a sense of rustic charm and uniqueness to the space.

Bring nature indoors by incorporating indoor plants. Plants not only add a touch of greenery but also contribute to a sense of calm and tranquility. Choose low-maintenance plants such as succulents, bonsai trees, and terrariums to align with the simplicity of Japandi design.

@heydavina decorates their living space with greenery and other natural materials. Pictured: The Owen Chaise Sectional Sofa.

Japandi interior design offers a compelling fusion of Japanese and Scandinavian styles, resulting in a space that is both visually appealing and highly functional. By embracing minimalism, natural materials, and a harmonious balance, you can create a serene and inviting home inspired by the principles of Japandi design.