10 Steps to Create a Beautiful Japandi Home

Introduction

Creating a Japandi home, where Scandinavian simplicity meets Japanese elegance, is a delightful design journey. By breaking it down into 10 simple steps, you can easily transform your living space into a harmonious and balanced haven that embodies the essence of Japandi design.

Minimalist Japandi aesthetic doesn't have to be cold and uninviting — Minimalist Japandi aesthetic doesn’t have to be cold and uninviting.

Step 1: Embrace Minimalism

The core of Japandi design is minimalism. Start by decluttering your space, keeping only what’s essential. Scandinavian design’s clean lines and functional furniture will guide you, while the Japanese concept of “wabi-sabi” invites you to appreciate imperfection.

Step 2: Find Your Neutral Palette

Combine Scandinavian neutrals with Japanese earthy tones. Select a neutral base and accentuate it with muted greens, browns, and deep blues. This balanced palette evokes the tranquility of a Japanese garden while embracing the simplicity of Scandinavian living.

Some sample Japandi colors in hex:

#F3EFE6, #EBE2DB, #E2C9B3, #B9A081, #AB896E, #B9B89C, #5E6B5A, #5D5D5D

Functional furniture in Japandi design and wabi-sabi aesthetic

Step 3: Choose Functional Furniture

Incorporate furniture that is not just beautiful but also practical. Look for pieces that seamlessly blend Scandi simplicity with Japanese craftsmanship, like minimalist bed frames or dining tables. These items provide both form and function.

Circle of Waves -- a Japandi art print — Circle of Waves — a Japandi art print by The Art of Zen

Step 4: Curate Nature-Inspired Wall Art

Your Japandi home is incomplete without nature-inspired wall art. Select pieces that capture the beauty of nature, like Japanese cherry blossoms (sakura) or Scandinavian landscape paintings. Ensure that the art aligns with the Japandi color palette and celebrates simplicity.

At the Art of Zen we have created original Japandi artwork on our Etsy store that will transform your living or work space.

Step 5: Celebrate Imperfections

To fully embrace Japandi, incorporate wabi-sabi touches. Use ceramic tableware with slight irregularities, linen curtains that filter natural light gently, or handwoven rugs for texture and warmth. These imperfections celebrate life’s natural flaws and the passage of time.

Step 6: Harmonize Lighting

Use natural light and carefully selected fixtures to create a harmonious ambiance. Allow sunlight to flood your space during the day, and opt for soft, warm lighting in the evenings. Scandinavian fixtures and Japanese paper lanterns work beautifully.

Opt for low furniture as part of the Japandi aesthetic

Step 7: Opt for Low Furniture

Low-profile furniture, like low sofas and coffee tables, contributes to the Japandi aesthetic. This style encourages open spaces and a sense of serenity in your home.

Use of natural materials in Japandi design

Step 8: Introduce Natural Materials

Embrace the warmth of natural materials. Incorporate wood, bamboo, and stone elements to add texture and an organic feel to your living space. Look for items that showcase the craftsmanship of both Scandinavian and Japanese design.

Minimalist interior design by Alena Valyavko – designate a warm nook as your zen space

Step 9: Create Zen Zones

Designate areas for relaxation and reflection. Incorporate elements like a Japanese tatami mat or a Scandinavian cozy reading nook. These zones will become your personal retreats within the Japandi home.

Balance in Japandi interior design - KVITKA | Apartment in LVIV — Balance in Japandi interior design – KVITKA | Apartment in LVIV

Step 10: Achieve Balance

Japandi design is about balance. Ensure that your space feels harmonious and that no single element overpowers the rest. Balance the functionality of Scandinavian design with the serenity of Japanese aesthetics for a truly balanced home.

Conclusion

In just 10 steps, you can create your own Japandi haven, fusing Scandinavian simplicity with Japanese elegance. Whether you’re a seasoned designer or new to the world of interior decor, Japandi offers a timeless and serene aesthetic that can transform your living space into a harmonious retreat.

Before you go, here are the Key New Trends in Japandi Interior Design for 2024.

Read more:

Japanese Art Prints by The Art of Zen featuring Wave Art

At the Art of Zen we have a wide selection of original Japanese style art prints in the ukiyo-e and Japandi style. Some of our best selling work is Mount Fuji art and Japandi wall art.

Add some zen to your space with some art from the Art of Zen shop.

Salman A

Based in the vibrant city of Dubai, I thrive as a designer and filmmaker with a passion sparked in childhood by the thrilling adventures of UFO Robot Grendizer and Speed Racer. My journey took a deeper dive into the world of art through a profound fascination with Japanese culture, enriched by memorable times spent in Japan. Creativity pulses at the core of who I am. Connect with me for tailor-made design and film projects that bring your visions to life.