What is Japandi Design

Japandi is a hybrid design trend that combines the Japanese wabi-sabi philosophy with the hygge sensibility of Scandinavia.

Wabi-sabi (侘び寂び) is deeply rooted in Zen philosophy, focusing on imperfection, simplicity, and the ‘incomplete’ — especially in relation to nature. In interior design, this is defined by asymmetry, roughness, modesty, and organic materials.

Hygge literally translates to ‘enjoy’. It refers to a feeling of cosiness, comfort, and seeking peace in quite moments. It likely emerged as a coping mechanism to find some sense of joy during Scandinavia’s long, dark winters. Hygge design is less about how a space looks and more about how it feels. And like wabi-sabi, simplicity is important. So essentially, Japandi is its own special kind of minimalism.

Let’s unpack exactly how these two design schools from opposite sides of the world have merged into one of the most popular contemporary interior design aesthetics.

Origins of Japandi

Obviously, both wabi-sabi and hygge have been fixtures within their own cultures for a long time; but as globally recognised concepts, they emerged in the late 2010s as a natural evolution of design trends that favoured simplicity, sustainability, and serenity. Thanks to increased access to global design inspiration (via Pinterest, Instagram, etc.), it’s easy for people to learn about and merge ideas from different cultures. Japandi emerged from this blending of two distinct but complementary philosophies.

Ultimately, a growing focus on sustainability and intentional living made Japandi appealing. Both styles prioritise artisanal craftsmanship, natural materials, and minimalist uncluttered spaces — ideals that fit well with the modern push toward conscious consumption. Now, interior designers, furniture makers, and lifestyle brands have popularised Japandi elements in product lines, magazines, and showrooms around the world.

Key Elements of Japandi Design

Minimalism with Warmth

The defining characteristic of Japandi spaces is that they’re clean and uncluttered, but with added layers of warmth and cosiness. This means reducing ornamentation but still feeling ‘lived in’ and comfortable. A big part of this is creating softness through texture, using ‘warm’ tones and natural, worn finishes (more on this later). This kind of minimalism still emphasises quality over quantity, promoting intentional living and a clear mind through calm surroundings — but the space certainly doesn’t feel empty, either spiritually or physically.

Natural Materials

Japandi designs primarily contain materials originating from nature. Wood, linen, stone, plants, and ceramics are all commonly used to reflect a connection to the earth. Fun fact: In Japandi interiors, exposed wooden ceiling beams serve both an aesthetic and symbolic function. They reinforce the principles of honesty in materials, connection to nature, and timeless design — while referencing the traditional architecture of both cultures.

Muted Colour Palettes

Muted tones are everywhere in Japandi rooms, which have a strong emphasis on anything neutral and earthy. The main palette is beige, clay, and off-white — while we can also see green and grey too, as long as it abides by the ‘warm and cosy’ rule. A muted colour story contributes to the overarching Japandi design narrative of serenity, being grounded in nature, and clearing the mind rather than overstimulating it.

Handmade, Imperfect Touches

As per wabi-sabi, imperfections are celebrated. This means choosing pieces made by hand, and showcasing materials with a patina — which is any sign of age or use that occurs naturally. This can be a piece of reclaimed timber, artisan-crafted ceramic tiles, softly wrinkled fabrics, woven wall hangings… and most commonly, a hand-troweled wall finish like microcement. In fact, we’d say that textured plaster or microcement walls are pretty much guaranteed in Japandi interiors.

Functional, Pared-Back Furniture

Scandinavian furniture is renowned for balancing ingenious functionality with minimalist aesthetics (they gave us IKEA, after all). Furniture in Japan is similarly restrained, and commonly low-profile. Therefore, Japandi interiors feature quite distinctive furnishings, that express a simplistic form and have a considered purpose.

Japandi furniture features uncomplicated lines and is free from ornate details. It’s often low-lying and/or integrated seamlessly into its surroundings. The aim is to keep spaces tidy, visually clean, and comfortable. Comfort is in fact the main priority, reflected in ergonomic shapes and inviting textures, as well as in an overall user-friendliness. This furniture not only fits beautifully within a serene, uncluttered space but also enhances everyday living.

Finding The Beauty in the Ordinary

At the heart of Japandi design is a quiet philosophy that everyday objects and simple moments can be beautiful. Rather than chasing perfection or luxury, Japandi ultimately invites us to slow down and appreciate the uncomplicated elegance of the ordinary. A sculptural storage jar, a weathered wooden door, the crinkles of linen — these things are celebrated because they are honest, functional, and full of character.

This approach is deeply influenced by the concept of wabi-sabi, which rejects order as curated and soulless, and the hygge mindset of extracting joy from the little things. By valuing what is humble and real, Japandi design turns the mundane into the meaningful, helping us let go of superficial concerns and create homes that feel alive.