The cozy cleanliness of Scandinavian interiors and the minimalist beauty of traditional Japanese decor have made them staples of modern home design. Now there is a growing trend combining the two: “Japandi”.
“I think a lot of people were looking for a relaxing style,” Laila Rietbergen, author of the new book “Japandi Living,” said in an email interview. “The serene and soothing aesthetic of the Japandi style and the more durable handcrafted items are a perfect match for these needs.”
An earthenware teapot sits on a sleek wooden table designed by Woodchuck, styled by Tinta. Credit: We are Kees
As zeitgeisty as it seems, this design fusion dates to the 1860s, Rietbergen said. She traces the aesthetic’s roots to Danish Navy Lieutenant William Carstensen, who visited Japan as the country opened up after two centuries of self-isolation. It was his book “Japan’s Capital and the Japanese” that first inspired Danish designers to travel to Japan, where they discovered that both cultures cherished simplicity and natural beauty, Rietbergen said.
Fast forward to today, contemporary interior designers are rediscovering commonalities in the penchant for neutral tones, natural materials and minimalist decor.
In addition to offering practical advice to readers, Rietbergen’s book features dozens of photos of immaculate Japandi-style homes. As cozy as they are elegant, the living spaces are decorated with delicate paper lamps and inviting cream sofas handcrafted by Scandinavian designers.
A delicate paper lantern complements a neat shelf, designed by Norm Architects. Credit: Jonas Bjerre Poulsen
Hygge and wabi-sabi
This revolves around two design principles: ‘hygge’, a Danish and Norwegian term that relates to the feeling of comfort and warmth, and ‘wabi-sabi’, the Japanese concept of accepting imperfections.
The Japandi style also celebrates craftsmanship, whether it’s the delicate light sculptures of Isamu Noguchi or the furniture of Carl Hansen, whose wishbone chairs sell for thousands of dollars. But Rietbergen points out that aesthetics can also be achieved by those decorating on a budget. After all, she says, it’s a philosophy guided by the belief that “less is more.”
Low, soft white tables designed by Woodchuck are paired with beige tones and an indoor tree, styled by Tinta. Credit: We are Kees
Rather than buying cheap, mass-produced furniture that won’t last, Rietbergen suggests buying second-hand while saving up for those few standout pieces you can cherish for years. And, in any case, the beauty of Japandi design is that there are no strict criteria to follow, added the author.
“Every interpretation of Japandi house and style is different,” she said. “It’s really important to dare to make your own choices. Your house is not a showroom and should not be a copy and paste of something you have seen. An important part is to add elements and personal items.”
“Japandi Living”, Norm Architects, Kinuta Terrace, photographed by Jonas Bjerre-Poulsen. Credit: Credit: Cocoon
Top image: Interiors by MENU Space.
#Japandi #Japanese #Scandinavian #design #internet