The cozy cleanliness of Scandinavian interiors and the minimalist beauty of traditional Japanese decor have made them both staples of modern home design. Now, there’s a growing trend combining the two: “Japandi.”
“I think a lot of people were looking for a style that is relaxing,” said Laila Rietnergen, author of the new book “Japandi Living” in an email interview. “The serene and calming aesthetics of Japandi style and the craftsmanship items that are more durable fits perfectly within these needs.”
An earthern tea pot sits on a sleek wooden table. Credit: Wij Zijn Kees
Zeitgeisty as it seems, this design fusion dates to the 1860s, said Rietnergen. She traces the aesthetic’s roots to Danish naval 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 compelled Danish designers to travel to Japan, where they discovered that both cultures treasured simplicity and natural beauty, Rietnergen said.
Fast-forward to today, contemporary interior designers are rediscovering commonalities in the penchant for neutral tones, natural materials and minimalist decor.
As well as offering practical tips for readers, Rietnergen’s book presents dozens of photos of immaculate Japandi-style homes. As cozy as they are sleek, the living spaces are decorated with delicate paper lamps and inviting cream couches handcrafted by Scandinavian designers.
A delicate paper latern complements a neat bookshelf. Credit: Jonas Bjerre-Poulsen
Hygge and wabi-sabi
Doing so revolves around two design principles: “hygge,” a Danish and Norwegian term that relates to feeling of coziness and warmth, and “wabi-sabi,” the Japanese concept of accepting imperfections.
Japandi style also celebrates craftmanship, whether it’s Isamu Noguchi’s delicate light sculptures or furniture by Carl Hansen, whose wishbone chairs sell for thousands of dollars. But Rietnergen stresses that the aesthetic can also be achieved by those decorating on a budget. After all, she says, it is a philosophy guided by the belief that “less is more.”
Soft white and tan tones paired with a tree. Credit: Wij Zijn Kees
Rather than purchasing cheap mass-produced furniture that won’t last, Rietnergen 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, the author added.
“Every home and Japandi style interpretation is different,” she said. “It is really important to dare to make your own choices. Your home isn’t a showroom and should not be a copy paste of something you have seen. An important part is to add personal elements and items.”
Credit: Cocoon
Top image: Interiors by MENU Space.