Japandi is a minimalist style which combines elements Japanese and Scandinavian design, bringing together the values of slow living, comfort, simplicity and wellbeing. According to the Architectural Digest, this blending began in the 19th century when Japan lifted its closed-border policies and Danish designers began visiting and finding inspiration in the oriental style.
Lauren Kavanagh, Art Director at Hovia said: “Japandi isn’t just a trend, it’s a lifestyle that’s here to stay. It blends the essence of Hygge and Wabi-Sabi by combining an organic, calming design approach with an appreciation for simplicity and imperfection.
“Wabi-Sabi celebrates the beauty of handcrafted materials, tactile surfaces and natural curved shapes that reconnect us with nature - all hallmarks of Japandi decor. The Scandinavian influence of Hygge adds a cosiness and comfort, creating a sense of contentment.
"Together, these two styles complement each other beautifully. Scandinavian design is known for its simplicity, modernity, and connection to nature. The use of wood and natural elements - common in Scandi design - seamlessly blends with the Japanese Wabi-Sabi aesthetic.

“To create a true Japandi space, focus on creating a sense of zen throughout. Consider how scents, textures, materials, and colours interact, and ensure all elements work together cohesively to evoke serenity and balance.”
To bring Japandi’s minimalist aesthetic into your home, a starting point would be to declutter, and then look at which key pieces you’ll bring into the space.
Amthal Karim, Head of Design at Furniture And Choice said: “Putting purpose first when choosing furniture and accessories will help set the mood of your space. For example, choose a sofa or armchair with clean lines or soft curves to bring out Japandi’s sleek yet simple feel. Tie this together with soft upholstery like cotton, linen or boucle to amp up the cosiness.”
“A neutral colour palette is essential in creating the Japandi look. Textured wallpaper in a neutral hue is one way to bring this element to life. If you prefer a light base for sofas go for cream, taupe, beige, oatmeal, ivory and light brown. You can also go darker with browns, stone shades and greys to make a more moody statement. However, it’s best to avoid ‘loud’ colours like red or orange to keep it understated.”

For example, the Manhattan (£549.99) is a cosy, deep two-seater sofa that’s perfect for relaxing. It has a sustainable wooden frame and solid hardwood feet. Available via Furniture and Choice, it has 4.7 out of 5 stars from nine reviews. One customer said: “It looks stunning and is extremely comfortable.” Another buyer remarked: “Really comfortable sofas and very easy to put together. They felt a little too firm at first but after about a week they became much softer.” However one buyer also noted that the sofa was too firm so they returned it.
Alternative sofas that embrace the Japandi style are the Sven chunky chenille two-seater sofa (£549) from Dunelm, the Habitat Julien velvet two-seater sofa (£595) from Argos, or the Sofia two-seater fabric sofa (£1495) from Furniture Village.
Amthal Karim added: “The best kept secret about giving Japandi a designer look is in the lighting. Get the ‘Japandi glow’ with round paper lantern lights or lamps which fit right in with the room’s clean, minimal aesthetic. Pendant lighting is also a good way to highlight specific areas of your home like your kitchen-diner or reading corner. Besides ceiling lights, table lamps are another option for brightening your interior giving you the flexibility to move the lamps around.”
Overall, Japandi interiors offer a philosophy of living a simple and harmonious life, as well as combining the best of both Japanese and Scandinavian aesthetics.
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