Design Definition: Japandi

Our Design Definition series demystifies design concepts and delves into current trends, bringing you interior inspiration and simple design advice.

This week's design definition: Japandi design.

We break down one of the most popular design trends of recent years - Japandi - and provide some easy tips and tricks for implementing Japandi design in your home.

What is Japandi?

Japandi is a hybrid of Japanese and Scandi (Scandinavian) design – a term in interior design that, according to Google, is achieving a record high search volume. Yelp reports that the design trend is set to soar in 2025. It’s easy to see why this design trend is so popular: centring on warm minimalism, natural materials and craftsmanship, Japandi design is both contemporary and timeless.

At the heart of the Japandi aesthetic are two concepts, Japanese ‘wabi–sabi’ and Danish ‘hygge.’  In contemporary terms, wabi-sabi refers to an appreciation of the beauty in imperfection, impermanence and simplicity. As a design or aesthetic philosophy, wabi sabi embraces flaws, aged materials, and nature. In Denmark, hygge refers to the philosophy of creating space and time for quiet, cosy contentment and conviviality. At the heart of both concepts is uncomplicated simplicity – a cornerstone of Japandi design.

How can you embrace Japandi design in your home?

Let OVS show you how to get started . . .

Uncluttered Space

A Japandi home or space offers a sanctuary away from busy everyday life, a place for calm contemplation and relaxation - and we all need a little bit more of this I think!!

To achieve this, create an environment free from clutter and distraction. It might be time to “Marie Kondo” your life a little… Keep tabletops and countertops clear by utilising storage. Japandi design favours the functional over the exclusively decorative, choose a small number of useful sculptural items over lots of small trinkets.

Softening Minimalism

Japandi-designed spaces are characterised by simplicity and warmth. Japandi embraces a version of minimalism that is not austere, instead, spaces are imbued with texture, detail and depth instead of ’ornament’. By this we mean all that stuff you have on your shelves, collecting dust. Ms Kondo would ask you if it all really “sparks joy”, or if actually, some visual space, light and texture might give you some peace.

To achieve this, opt for a muted colour palette incorporating neutral tones such as beige, taupe, cream, soft greys and pale greens. Consider applying occasional accents of charcoal or black to this soothing backdrop.

Furniture with clean lines, uncomplicated silhouettes, and a low profile will contribute to a feeling of serenity and a sense of space.  

To maintain an airy feel, welcome in natural light and utilise wall lights and table lamps to gently illuminate your space.

Don’t forget to create areas where nothing resides, allowing the eye to rest.

Natural Materials

Japandi design leans heavily on wood, stone, bamboo, linen, and other organic materials. Scandinavian influence brings in light woods like ash and pine, while Japanese design often incorporates darker timbers like walnut. The blend creates a balanced, earthy feel that is both calming and inviting.

We love to introduce subtle texture by celebrating a material’s natural properties, take for example the beautiful wood grain showcased in the window frame, staircase and wall (above) in our recent Sweet Caroline project.

Subtle Texture

Introduce subtle texture and detail with soft furnishings and textiles such as cushions or rugs. Fluted wall panels are also an excellent way to incorporate texture and depth without compromising the overall sense of simplicity and visual harmony in a space.

Functional Objects

Choose functional objects rather than purely decorative ones. In Japandi design, everything has a place and a purpose. We love handcrafted ceramics with naturally occurring patterns and surface glazes, that embody the principles of wabi-sabi.

Craftsmanship

An affinity for natural materials and their properties is common to traditional Japanese and Scandinavian design. Both prioritise well-chosen, durable items that are built to last. Natural materials and craftsmanship are key. Avoid the artificial in favour of materials that will naturally age over time.

As people seek refuge from digital overload and fast-paced living, Japandi design offers a peaceful alternative that celebrates simplicity and balance. Moreover, the Japandi aesthetic suits a variety of spaces, from small urban apartments to spacious family homes. Its adaptable nature makes it ideal for those looking to create a serene sanctuary that reflects clarity, comfort, and purpose.

Get in touch today to discuss how OVS can incorporate Japandi design into your project or your interior design scheme.