How to Decorate Japandi Style Interiors (and What It Is)
by Mae Osz on Sep 26, 2024
What makes a home feel genuinely restful rather than merely bare? That is the question at the heart of japandi interior design — a style that has quietly become one of the most searched and widely adopted looks in British homes. By marrying Japanese wabi-sabi philosophy with the cosy functionality of Scandinavian design, it produces spaces that are deliberately calm without ever feeling cold or empty.
By Mae Osz | Interior Design Consultant & Home Decor Expert with 12+ years of experience.
Japandi style emerged from the fusion of Japanese and Scandinavian design philosophies. Japanese design is known for its minimalist approach, clean lines, and use of natural materials, while Scandinavian design focuses on functionality, comfort, and a light, airy atmosphere — and if you want to go deeper into either tradition, our guide to the fusion of Japanese and Scandinavian design philosophies explores each in detail.Together, they create a balanced, tranquil space that feels both modern and timeless.
List of Contents
- Embracing Japandi Style in Your Home
- How to create a Japandi home room by room
- Common Japandi decorating mistakes (and how to fix them)
- Japandi colour palette: choosing the right tones
- Natural materials in Japandi design
- Key characteristics of Japandi style
- Japandi lighting: how to get it right
- Japandi furniture and lighting: how to choose well
- How to bring Japandi style into your home on a budget
What is Japandi Style?
Japandi is a harmonious blend of Japanese and Scandinavian design principles, creating a minimalist yet warm and inviting aesthetic. This design trend merges the Japanese concept of wabi-sabi, which finds beauty in imperfection, with the Scandinavian idea of hygge, which emphasises cosiness and comfort. The result is a serene, functional, and aesthetically pleasing interior emphasising simplicity and natural elements.
- Key Characteristics of Japandi Style: Minimalism, Functionality, and Natural Elements
The key characteristics of Japandi style include a minimalist approach, functional furniture, and the use of natural elements. This style embraces simplicity and avoids clutter, creating spaces that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Natural materials such as wood, stone, and textiles play a significant role in creating a warm and inviting environment.
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Understanding Japandi style Aesthetics
- The Philosophy Behind Japandi: Wabi-Sabi and Hygge
The Japandi aesthetic is rooted in the philosophies of wabi-sabi and hygge. Wabi-sabi emphasises the beauty of imperfection and the transient nature of life, while hygge focuses on creating a cosy and comfortable atmosphere. Together, they encourage a mindful, intentional approach to design.
- The Colour Palette: Neutral Tones and Natural Hues
The Japandi colour palette consists of neutral tones and natural hues such as beige, white, soft greys, and muted greens. These colours create a calming and cohesive environment, allowing the natural materials and textures to stand out.
- Materials and Textures: Wood, Stone, Textiles, and Ceramics
Natural materials like wood, stone, textiles, and ceramics are essential in Japandi interiors. These materials add warmth and texture to the space, creating a tactile and visually appealing environment.
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Furniture Selection: Simplicity Meets Functionality
- Choosing Minimalist, Functional Furniture Pieces
When selecting furniture for a Japandi interior, prioritise minimalist and functional pieces. Furniture should have clean lines and serve a practical purpose without unnecessary embellishments.
- Mixing Japanese and Scandinavian Furniture Designs
Combine Japanese and Scandinavian furniture designs to achieve a balanced look. Japanese furniture often features low profiles and natural wood, while Scandinavian pieces are known for their simplicity and comfort.
- Low Profile Seating and Clean Lines
Low-profile seating, such as floor cushions or low sofas, and furniture with clean lines are hallmarks of Japandi design. These elements contribute to the space's minimalist and serene atmosphere.
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Creating a Harmonious Layout in Your Japandi Home
- Open Spaces and Flow: Importance of Uncluttered Areas
An open and uncluttered layout is crucial in Japandi design. Ensure that spaces flow seamlessly, and that each area feels spacious and airy.
- Balance and Symmetry: Achieving Visual Calm
Achieving visual balance and symmetry is essential in Japandi interiors. Arrange furniture and decor in a way that feels balanced and harmonious, creating a sense of calm and order.
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Incorporating Natural Elements
- Indoor Plants: Adding Greenery for a Touch of Nature
Incorporate indoor plants to add a touch of nature and enhance the natural aesthetic of this design philosophy — and for a deeper look at pulling every element together, our practical guide on creating a calm home with the Japandi decorating trend covers colour, furniture, and textiles in greater depth. Choose plants that thrive indoors and complement the overall colour palette.
- Natural Light: Maximising Sunlight and Using Light Fixtures
Maximise natural light by using sheer curtains or blinds that allow sunlight to filter through. Complement natural light with carefully chosen light fixtures that add warmth and ambience to the space.
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Wall Art Prints: Enhancing Japandi Interiors
- Selecting Wall Art Prints that Reflect Japandi Themes
Choose unique wall art prints that reflect this aesthetic, such as minimalist landscapes or nature-inspired artwork.
- Minimalist and Nature-Inspired Artwork
Opt for minimalist and nature-inspired artwork to maintain the serene and natural vibe of Japandi interiors.
- Arranging Wall Art Prints for Balance and Harmon
Arrange wall art prints in a balanced and harmonious way. Consider using a symmetrical layout or a cohesive theme to enhance the overall aesthetic.
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Textiles and Soft Furnishings
- Choosing Natural Fabrics: Linen, Cotton, and Wool
Select natural fabrics like linen, cotton, and wool for textiles and soft furnishings. These materials add warmth and texture while maintaining a minimalist aesthetic.
- Incorporating Subtle Patterns and Textures
Use subtle patterns and textures to add interest without overwhelming the space. Consider using textured throws, cushions, and rugs to enhance the comfort and visual appeal.
- Using Cushions, Throws, and Rugs for Comfort
Incorporate cushions, throws, and rugs to add comfort and cosiness to your Japandi interior. Choose items that complement the colour palette and overall aesthetic.
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Functional Decor and Accessories
- Practical and Aesthetic Items: Storage Solutions and Decorative Pieces
Choose decor and accessories that are both practical and aesthetically pleasing. Functional storage solutions and carefully selected decorative pieces enhance the overall look while serving a purpose.
- Incorporating Japanese and Scandinavian Craftsmanship
Include items that showcase Japanese and Scandinavian craftsmanship. Handcrafted pieces add a unique and personal touch to your decor.
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Creating a Zen Bathroom
- Spa-Like Features: Clean Lines, Natural Materials, and Tranquil Colours
Transform your bathroom into a zen retreat with spa-like features. Use clean lines, natural materials, and tranquil colours to create a calming and serene atmosphere.
- Minimalist Storage and Functional Decor
Ensure that storage solutions are minimalist and functional. Keep decor simple and practical to maintain a clutter-free and peaceful environment.
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Japandi in the Kitchen and Dining Area
- Simple and Functional Design: Streamlined Cabinets and Open Shelving
Design your kitchen and dining area with simplicity and functionality in mind. Use streamlined cabinets and open shelving to create an organised and airy space.
- Natural Materials and Thoughtful Layout
Incorporate natural materials like wood and stone and plan the layout thoughtfully to ensure ease of use and visual appeal.
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Bedroom Serenity: Designing a Peaceful Retreat
- Minimalist Furniture and Natural Textiles
Create a peaceful retreat in your bedroom with minimalist furniture and natural textiles. Choose pieces that promote relaxation and comfort.
- Creating a Calming Atmosphere with Colours and Decor
Use calming colours and decor to enhance the serene atmosphere. Opt for soft, neutral tones and simple, nature-inspired decorations.
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Seasonal Updates: Adapting Japandi Style Throughout the Year
- Incorporating Seasonal Elements: Textures, Colours, and Decor
Refresh your Japandi interior with seasonal elements. Change textures, colours, and decor to reflect the different seasons while maintaining the core aesthetic.
- Maintaining the Core Aesthetic While Adding Seasonal Touches
Ensure that seasonal updates complement the core Japandi aesthetic. Subtle changes can keep your decor feeling fresh and relevant throughout the year.
Embracing Japandi Style in Your Home
Japandi style offers a balanced, functional, and tranquil approach to home decor. By embracing minimalism, natural elements, and thoughtful design, you can create a space that reflects your lifestyle and provides a serene sanctuary. Personalise your Japandi interiors with carefully chosen pieces and enjoy the harmony and beauty of this unique design trend.
For a deeper look at translating these principles into a real decorating project, our guide on how to create a calm Japandi home through mindful decorating walks through colour, furniture, and texture choices room by room.
If you are ready to put these principles into practice straight away, our in-depth guide to creating a calm, clutter-free home with mindful decorating walks through the colour, furniture, and texture decisions room by room.
What is Japandi style?
The story of Japandi design is older than the trend name suggests. Trade and cultural exchange between Japan and Scandinavia began in the late 19th century, and designers from both regions quickly recognised a shared philosophy: that beauty and usefulness are inseparable. Japanese craft traditions — particularly the mingei folk-art movement — resonated strongly with Scandinavian functionalism, and the two quietly influenced each other over decades.
By the early 2000s, interior designers in Europe began consciously combining the two aesthetics, and the portmanteau 'Japandi' entered mainstream design vocabulary around 2017–2019. It gained particular momentum in the UK as homeowners, faced with smaller living spaces and busier lives, sought an interior approach that delivered calm without cold austerity. Understanding this heritage helps explain why Japandi feels so cohesive — it is not a forced mashup but a genuine meeting of kindred design minds.
Why is Japandi style so popular?
Few design trends have shown the staying power of Japandi, and the reasons are rooted in how we live today. As urban homes in the UK grow smaller and daily life grows more demanding, there is a widespread desire for spaces that actively reduce stress. Japandi delivers exactly that: every design decision — from the restrained colour palette to the deliberate absence of clutter — serves the goal of a calmer mind.
The trend also aligns neatly with the sustainability movement. Both Japanese and Scandinavian design traditions prize quality over quantity, natural materials over synthetics, and longevity over disposability. Choosing a Japandi-inspired interior is, in many ways, a choice to buy less and buy better — something that resonates strongly with conscious consumers in 2024 and beyond.
Finally, Japandi is highly adaptable. Unlike maximalist styles that require a complete overhaul, you can introduce Japandi principles gradually — beginning with a neutral wall colour, a low-profile sofa, or a set of Japandi wall art prints — and build the look room by room at your own pace.
How to create a Japandi home room by room
One of the most practical ways to approach this aesthetic is to think room by room — each space has different demands, and Japandi principles apply slightly differently depending on how a room is used.
Japandi living room: Keep seating low-profile and upholstered in natural linen or cotton. A single piece of considered wall art — think Japanese landscape prints or abstract ink brushwork — carries more visual weight than a gallery wall packed with frames. Limit decorative objects to three or fewer per surface.
Japandi bedroom: A platform bed in pale oak or walnut is the natural centrepiece. Layer the bed with textured throws in muted clay or sage, and choose bedside lighting that is warm and diffused rather than bright. Keep surfaces almost entirely clear.
Japandi kitchen: Handleless cabinetry in warm off-white or soft charcoal, paired with stone or wood worktops, captures the aesthetic instantly. Avoid stainless-steel appliances where possible — matte black or integrated finishes align better with the palette.
Japandi bathroom: Natural stone tiles, a freestanding ceramic basin, and timber storage accents create the serene spa feeling this style is known for. Decant toiletries into neutral ceramic or glass containers to remove visual noise from branded packaging.
For a practical room-by-room walkthrough, read our guide on how to create a calm Japandi home through mindful decorating, which covers colour layering, furniture selection, and wall art choices in detail.
Common Japandi decorating mistakes (and how to fix them)
Even with the best intentions, a few missteps can undermine the Japandi effect. The most common is confusing minimalism with bareness. Japandi is not about removing everything — it is about keeping only what is meaningful and beautiful. A room with bare white walls, no textiles, and no plants is simply empty; a true Japandi space feels curated and alive.
A second common error is choosing the wrong wood tones. Cool, grey-toned Scandi woods such as ash or birch work well, but so do the darker, richer Japanese tones of walnut or smoked oak — the mistake is mixing too many contrasting wood species in one room, which creates visual noise rather than calm.
Thirdly, many people overlook lighting. Harsh overhead LEDs strip a space of warmth instantly. Instead, layer your lighting with warm-toned bulbs, paper or rattan pendants, and low-level lamps that pool light gently around seating areas in the way traditional Japanese interiors have always done.
Finally, resist the urge to over-accessorise. In Japandi design, every object on a shelf or surface should earn its place. If it has no practical function or genuine emotional meaning, it is clutter — and clutter is the antithesis of wabi-sabi.
Japandi colour palette: choosing the right tones
Colour is the fastest way to signal whether a room is truly Japandi or simply minimalist. The palette sits in a specific emotional register — neither stark white nor deeply saturated, but somewhere warm, earthy, and quietly alive.
The foundation is always a warm neutral: soft white with a yellow or greige undertone, warm stone, or pale sand. Avoid cool, blue-toned whites, which read as Scandi rather than Japandi and lose the warmth the style depends on.
Accent tones deepen the palette without breaking its calm. Muted sage green, clay, terracotta, and soft charcoal are the most commonly used. These colours appear in textiles, ceramics, and occasional painted woodwork — never as a dominant wall colour that overwhelms the room.
The table below shows how to layer the Japandi palette across a room:
Foundation (walls and large surfaces): Warm white, soft stone, pale sand — used on 60–70% of the room's visible surfaces.
Secondary (furniture and flooring): Natural wood tones, warm greige, oatmeal linen — used on 20–30% of visible surfaces.
Accent (textiles and objects): Muted sage, clay, charcoal, terracotta — used sparingly on 10% of the room to add depth without noise.
Natural materials in Japandi design
If colour sets the mood, materials give Japandi interiors their soul. Both Japanese and Scandinavian design traditions place natural materials at the centre of the aesthetic — not as decoration, but as the primary sensory experience of a room.
Wood is the most important material in any Japandi space. Pale oak and walnut are both appropriate, though Japanese-influenced rooms tend toward slightly darker, more tactile grains. The grain itself should be visible — this is where wabi-sabi thinking comes in, finding beauty in the natural imperfection of the material.
Stone, whether as flooring, worktops, or decorative objects, adds a grounding quality. Rattan and bamboo introduce texture without pattern. Linen and undyed cotton in textiles keep the tactile experience natural throughout.
Avoid synthetic fabrics, high-gloss lacquer finishes, and anything that reads as artificial. Even small objects — a candle holder, a vase, a storage basket — should be made from honest materials that improve with age rather than degrade with wear.
Key characteristics of Japandi style
House & Garden and NordicNest both treat the defining characteristics of Japandi as a standalone, scannable section — and it is easy to see why readers find it useful. While this page covers individual elements across several sections, a single clear overview helps visitors quickly judge whether the style is right for them before reading further.
The most recognisable characteristic is restraint. Every object in a Japandi room earns its place; decoration for its own sake is avoided in favour of pieces that carry either practical value, craft quality, or genuine personal meaning. This is wabi-sabi thinking applied to a whole interior.
A muted, nature-inspired colour palette is the second defining feature — warm whites, soft beiges, sage greens, clay tones, and warm charcoal. Colours are never bright or saturated; instead they create a sense of visual quiet that lets materials and textures do the work.
Low-profile, clean-lined furniture is the third pillar. Pieces sit close to the ground, reference natural wood grain, and avoid ornamental detail. The silhouette is simple; the craftsmanship is the decoration.
Finally, handmade and natural objects — a thrown ceramic, a linen cushion, a raw-edged wooden tray — introduce the warmth and slight imperfection that stops the style from feeling clinical. These small details are what separate Japandi from sterile minimalism.
Japandi lighting: how to get it right
NordicNest dedicates a section to Japandi furniture and lighting, and it is a topic this page currently overlooks. Lighting is one of the most powerful tools in achieving the calm, layered atmosphere that defines this aesthetic — and getting it wrong (harsh overhead lights, cool white bulbs) can undermine every other design decision you make.
The guiding principle is warmth and softness. Choose bulbs with a colour temperature of around 2700K — a gentle amber tone that mimics candlelight. Avoid cool-white LEDs, which create a clinical feel at odds with the hygge side of Japandi.
Layer your sources rather than relying on a single ceiling fitting. A combination of table lamps, floor lamps, and low pendant lights placed at different heights creates depth and allows you to dial the atmosphere up or down through the day. Paper or linen shades, rattan pendants, and stone lamp bases all sit naturally within the material palette.
Candlelight remains a cornerstone of Scandinavian hygge, and it translates perfectly into Japandi rooms. A cluster of unscented beeswax candles on a low wooden tray adds warmth and texture that no electric fitting can replicate — a simple, low-cost way to elevate the feel of any room in the evening.
Japandi furniture and lighting: how to choose well
Furniture is the backbone of any Japandi room, and the selection criteria are straightforward: every piece should earn its place through both form and function. Look for low-profile sofas and beds that sit close to the floor — a nod to Japanese interiors — combined with the clean, unfussy silhouettes that define Scandinavian cabinetry and shelving. Natural wood is the material of choice, particularly pale oak, ash, or walnut with a matte or oiled finish rather than high-gloss lacquer.
Multi-functional pieces are especially well suited to British homes where space is often at a premium. A storage bench at the foot of a bed, a coffee table with hidden compartments, or a dining bench that tucks neatly away all serve the Japandi philosophy of purposeful simplicity. Avoid ornate legs, decorative mouldings, or anything with unnecessary hardware — the beauty is in what has been left out.
Lighting in a Japandi interior should feel soft and considered. Pendant lights in washi paper, ceramic, or woven rattan diffuse light gently and cast a warm, even glow rather than a harsh spotlight. Wall-mounted sconces at low height reinforce the grounded quality of the style. During the day, keep window dressings minimal — sheer linen panels or simple roller blinds — so that natural light can do the work, shifting the atmosphere from bright and airy in the morning to intimate and cosy by evening.
How to bring Japandi style into your home on a budget
One of the most common misconceptions about this aesthetic is that it requires a full renovation or expensive designer pieces. In practice, the philosophy of choosing fewer, better things actually makes it one of the more budget-friendly styles to work towards. Start by editing what you already own — removing items that add visual noise rather than value — before spending a single pound on anything new.
Charity shops and second-hand marketplaces are excellent sources for the kind of simple wooden furniture and neutral-toned ceramics the style calls for. A plain pine side table sanded back and finished with a light oil can look quietly refined. A mismatched set of beige linen cushion covers replaces a chaotic mix of patterns for very little outlay.
Wall art is one of the most affordable ways to anchor the aesthetic. A small set of nature-inspired prints — botanical studies, mountain landscapes, or abstract ink brushwork — adds the cultural layering the style depends on without requiring you to replace any furniture at all. Hang them simply, with narrow frames in black or natural wood, and let them breathe with generous spacing between them.
