With so much in common, there's a lot to love about Japanese and Scandinavian design. Both aesthetics emphasize neutral and earthy colors, sustainable materials, and the great outdoors (plants, branches, and solids woods). Japandi design brings the two decor trends into one happy, harmonious place, influenced by the subtle differences in each design. There's the comfort and warm minimalism of the Scandi style combined with the elegance, attention to detail and wabi-sabi, or rustic simplicity (wabi) and beauty in imperfection (sabi), of the Japanese side. Here's a look at how to achieve the look with our shoppable favorites!
Open Spaces
Image courtesy of Klein Agency
This 1930s ranch-style home in the Los Feliz Hills neighborhood of Los Angeles exudes a Japandi vibe, with its open and airy layout, beautiful cabinetry in Douglas Fir, clean modern lines, tons of natural light and high-end materials to elevate the design, all reimagined by AIA award-winning architects Klein Agency in collab with builder SITU Development.
Neutral Color Palette
Image courtesy of Klein Agency
Look for shades of white, beige, gray and earth tones to create a serene and calming atmosphere.The Klein design team was inspired by the home’s natural surroundings and sweeping views. Green tones reflect the nature outside, as do the beautiful wide plank white oak flooring by Madera. The relaxed organic bedding hint to a more Scandi hygge look.
Functionality
Image courtesy of Klein Agency
The Klein architects added two more bedrooms and additional square footage to maximize the home’s functionality and flow. Where does all the clutter go? These built-in closets offer tons of storage space so you never see any.
Minimalist Decor
Image courtesy of Klein Agency
Minimal artwork and natural elements set the scene for a quiet workspace, where focus is key. Don't be afraid to include vintage items and personal mementos too. Things that hold meaning to you are especially important.
Natural Elements
Image courtesy of Klein Agency
The windows are unobstructed throughout the home, maximizing natural light, and the decor embraces the outdoors with indoor branches and greenery (even in the shower).
Balanced Symmetry
Image courtesy of Klein Agency
Rise and shine: sleek furniture and a balanced layout, as well as limited decoration, are signature markers of Japandi design. Furniture and decor feels purposeful, like you use what you love and need.
Tranquility
Image courtesy of Klein Agency
Indoors and out, Japandi design prioritizes relaxation and mindfulness, as shown in this stunning Los Feliz home. Keep the design simple, clutter-free, and peaceful. It's all about your well-being and creating a sanctuary for living.
Shop Our Japandi Design Favorites
This sleek, fan-like pendant makes an artistic statement in any room.
Japandi doesn't mean lack of color. This rich emerald print of floating cranes adds a pop to your neutral decor.
Sit back and relax on this solid wood + rope outdoor chair in a rustic neutral hue, perfect for a Japandi-style patio.
Furniture that is multi-functional is very Japandi. This piece has functional adjustable shelves, an extendable TV stand (or kids table), and is perfect for your living room, bedroom or office.
This minimal but unique sofa also functions as a bed, plus it has hidden armrest storage space.
Here's your future reading spot, or the perfect perch for a zen moment with a nature view.
These versatile side tables made in Japanese hinoki wood are stunning from every angle.
Organic shapes like this geometric chandelier create a feeling of nature indoors.
It's all in the details. From your dining room to your office, this curvy steel-frame chair is art that's functional too.
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Header image courtesy of Klein Agency
