Japandi is a minimalist interior design style that combines elements of Japanese and Scandinavian design trends. The name itself is a combination of "Japanese" and "Scandi." The style emerged during the second half of the 2010s but became popularized in late 2020.[1]
Japandi is characterized by the Nordic concept of "hygge" (creating a cozy and homely feeling) and the Japanese aesthetic of "wabi-sabi," which encourages people to see beauty in imperfection.
The appeal of the Japandi style is to use few details, but ones that will be both original and practical. It encourages craftsmanship and the use of natural materials such as wood, ceramics, linen and bamboo. Furniture is generally designed with simplicity in mind and strives for functionality. The color scheme consists of neutral tones, such as white, gray, green, blue or ochre.
History[]
The Japandi style emerged from the shared interior design values of Japan and Scandinavia, despite their obvious cultural and geographical distance. Both cultures appreciate simplicity, functionality, natural materials, and craftsmanship.[2] This is unlike other areas, such as the United Kingdom, where craft does not have the same high-end connotation.[2] The fusion of Japanese and Nordic aesthetics was noticed in recent times, with furniture, tableware, and interiors that use neutral tones and natural textures.
Designers like Nina Tolstrup believe that the connection between Japan and Nordic countries dates back to the 1950s,[2] when modernist pieces from Scandinavia mirrored the work of Japanese designers like Isamu Noguchi and Isamu Kenmochi. Danish designer Lars Vejen emphasizes the importance of craft in both cultures and Japan's dedication to preserving traditional techniques.
Collaborations between Japanese and Scandinavian designers also influenced the development of this style. Vejen's Enso lamp, a collaboration with Japanese firm Kohseki, combines his design with Japanese woodworking. StudioA27, Vejen's partnership with Taijiro Ishiko, produced the Float chair, which combines elements of Danish and Japanese furniture traditions. Jonah Takagi and Hallgeir Homstvedt, another duo, focus on artisanal skills and aesthetics over technology in their furniture design.[2]
Beyond aesthetics and craft, shared values also seem to be rooted in a similar response to the natural environment. Japan House curator Kato Saeko suggests that both cultures have found ways to live harmoniously with nature despite their complex geography.
The original purpose of minimalism (i.e. before commercialization) is to get rid of clutter and live a simple life. Thus, the popularization of Japandi may be linked to growing environmental awareness. Japandi designers emphasize natural materials and lasting items, which are preferred by people who want to pursue a simple and sustainable lifestyle. For example, Japanese brand E&Y, known for collaborations with Studio Mama and several Scandinavian designers, focuses on handcrafted and long-lasting objects.[2]
Furniture[]
Japandi furniture typically uses natural materials such as wood and bamboo. Pieces are usually minimally processed, with their natural appearance and texture being unnaltered. Most furniture is specifically designed to last, hence why the style is so popular among people who want to follow a sustainable lifestyle. Forms tend to be simple for greater functionality, avoiding unnecessary ornamentation. Common colours include white, beige, apricot, and various shades of brown.
Visuals[]
Decorative objects typically incorporate natural elements such as wood, bamboo, and stone. Indoor plants are a popular choice. Textiles tend to be simple and natural, especially materials like linen and cotton in neutral colors. Ceramics and pottery with simple forms and imperfect finishes are used for both functional and decorative purposes. Paintings on walls tend to be minimal and abstract, or depict natural/folk themes.
Gallery[]
References[]
- ↑ "What Is Japandi Interior Design and How Do I Do It?" on riluxa.com
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 "The rise of ‘Japandi’ style" on bbc.com