Key Principles:
The Japandi style home seeks to utilize organic shapes and natural materials in each room, while focusing on the principles of Japanese functional minimalism to make the spaces feel clean and comfortable.
Japanese minimalism was a philosophy that shaped lifestyles before it was applied to interior design. Placing value on simplifying life by forming healthy habits and seeing beauty in reduction, the minimalist approach to life naturally affected home design to reflect the same values.
Scandinavian design focuses on making spaces warm and cozy, adhering to the concept of hygge, or a removal from the rush. The goal of these spaces is an atmosphere of unhurried living, creating a place of connection to your surroundings and to your company.
Why Japandi Style:
These two design models share a goal for simplicity and purpose in the space. Drawing on elements of both styles creates a design language that offers a neat, comfortable aesthetic and creates tranquil living areas. The combination of a functional focus on removing unnecessary clutter and the emphasis on creating a space for intentional living results in a cohesive room design that has a calm, quiet atmosphere. The blending of these two philosophies was a natural equilibrium of each. The design choices of one compliment the elements of the other due to the similar approach and the shared value of simplicity. This was a natural evolution of thoughtful design, and the culmination is the Japandi style.
Furniture's Role:
The role of furniture in Japandi style homes is twofold:
1- The feel that a room draws from the use of specific materials is most heavily influenced by the material of the furniture in that room
2- Furniture often dictates the room's purpose, and therefore is responsible for the room's atmosphere
The Scandinavian influence leans heavily into creating warmth and comfort with the use of natural materials such as hardwood. Aside from exposed structural and architectural elements, like beams and doorways, furniture is among the best ways to achieve that natural feel. Paired with plants and greenery, wooden furniture is a hallmark of Japandi style, and it really brings nature into the home in a normal, effortless way.
The more obvious role that furniture plays in contributing to a room's atmosphere is the actual function of the furniture, and by association, the purpose of the room. A chair is used for sitting the same way that a side table is used to hold a drink, a book, or a piece of decor. The furniture is the means of connecting a person to the room by giving the room its purpose: conversation, sharing a meal, or simply a place to reset. The furniture contributes to the room's uncluttered appearance and can be home to some functional pieces of decor such as books, ceramics, or vases.
The End Product
Creating a Japandi style home or room is a process that will pay dividends to the designer and user. A comfortable, clutter-free space is an accomplishment that can be appreciated by everyone who enters.