How much do you know about Japandi style? – Sometimes two styles are better than one. Japandi, one of 2019’s coolest design trends, is absolute proof of that. It combines the modern-rustic vibe of Scandinavian — or Nordic — designs with the traditional elegance that’s associated with Japanese styles. Together, they’re about to become your new favourite take on minimalism.
Japandi is a hybrid trend. This new look takes the modern flair of Scandinavian design and combines it with the timeless elegance of a Japanese aesthetic to create a style that brings together the best of both worlds.
Image Credit: Viacapital
It’s not hard to see why these two styles have been paired. Though they come from different sides of the globe, they share similar principles. Both are exercises in minimalism. They both emphasize the importance of creating function-driven spaces defined by a handful of statement pieces rather than an abundance of décor.
It’s their differences that help make this mash-up especially interesting. While Japanese spaces can get overly sleek, the rustic details in Nordic design add variance. Where Scandinavian interiors have a tendency to be so neutral they can appear antiseptic, the rich colour palette of Japanese design gives the room more warmth.
The contrast is key to creating visually interesting interiors, and Japandi is no exception. In this case, the colour palette is the easiest way to see how juxtaposition defines this trend and creates a new and exciting look.
The first step is understanding the defining shades of each style. On the one hand, Nordic design is characterized by a mix of light, neutral hues, natural woods and pops of pastel accents. Japanese style, on the other hand, is known for richer tones. It’s built from stained woods surrounded by eye-catching additions of black.
Image Credit: HandG designs
Most Japandi rooms start with a darker base, usually a saturated, neutral shade. The contrast is then created by incorporating a mix of light woods and stark, black hues. Even the accents are usually monochromatic. However, a few vibrant colours can be added through natural sources such as house plants.
Image Credit: APARTMENTLOVIN’
Accessories have a lesser degree of importance in both Scandinavian and Japanese designs. Since these rooms are so function-driven, strictly decorative items take a backseat. That said, each aesthetic does incorporate a few statement décor pieces to ensure the design feels intentional.
Scandinavian accent pieces focus on comfort. They rely on items such as plush rugs, bountiful throw pillows and cozy blankets to give their interiors a homey feel. Japanese accents tend to be utilitarian items such as vases or screens. Japandi rooms ideally include a mix of both, though still feel simple and scaled back.
Image Credit: DESIGNBX
In both aesthetics, there is one truly unifying factor. Both styles rely heavily on natural elements such as plants to breathe a sense of vibrancy into their décor. Be sure to include some plants into your Japandi interiors to make the room seem even more cohesive.
Image Credit: Dezign Ark
Japandi may still new in 2019, but we’re sure it’s here to stay. By combining the best parts of Scandinavian and Japanese designs, this look might just be the pinnacle of inviting simplicity. If you’re as enamoured with this look as we are, keep this post close at hand. In our minds, it’s only a matter of time before we see Japandi looks everywhere.
Image Credit: Pratique
Don’t forget to read:
5 Interior Design Trends For 2020 To Help You Create Your Home Decor
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