What is Japandi and how do I select a Japandi style floor?
Japandi is a design trend that combines elements of Japanese and Scandinavian aesthetics, resulting in a harmonious fusion of minimalism, nature, and functionality. This emerging movement has gained popularity in recent years, captivating interior designers and homeowners around the world.
At its core, Japandi seeks to create a sense of balance, serenity, and simplicity in living spaces, drawing from the principles of wabi-sabi (the Japanese concept of finding beauty in imperfection) and hygge (a Danish concept of coziness and contentment). By blending these two philosophies, Japandi aims to evoke a tranquil, uncluttered atmosphere while embracing warmth and comfort.
The visual characteristics of Japandi design reflect the core principles it draws from. The color palette is typically muted, featuring soft tones and natural hues such as beige, gray, white, and earthy shades. This neutral backdrop sets the stage for beautifully crafted, functional furniture and decor pieces that exhibit clean lines, minimal ornamentation, and organic shapes.
Japandi places great emphasis on the use of natural materials, such as light-toned woods like beech, ash, or oak, which are often left untreated to showcase their inherent textures and grains. These materials are complemented by tactile textiles like linen and wool, adding warmth and visual depth to the space.
In terms of furniture, Japandi embraces sleek simplicity and functionality. Clean-lined, low-profile seating and tables exude a sense of calmness, while intelligently designed storage solutions ensure a clutter-free environment. The integration of Scandinavian influences means that Japandi spaces often include iconic Scandinavian design pieces that seamlessly merge with the Japanese aesthetic.
Japandi also celebrates nature and the outdoors. Expansive windows and the presence of abundant natural light are fundamental to Japandi spaces, blurring the boundaries between indoor and outdoor living. Indoor plants, bonsai trees, or floral arrangements are incorporated to connect with nature and add a touch of vitality to the overall ambiance.
Accessories and decorations in Japandi spaces are kept to a minimum, and each item holds significance. Ceramics, pottery, and handmade objects are tastefully displayed, showcasing the beauty of imperfections and embracing the concept of mindful craftsmanship.
Japandi is not just a design style; it represents a lifestyle choice that fosters a sense of calm and tranquility in our fast-paced world. By combining the traditional aesthetics of Japan and Scandinavia, this design trend offers a refined and balanced approach to creating inviting, well-curated, and functional spaces that truly enhance our well-being.
When choosing a floor for the Japandi aesthetic keep to either light or mid tones, rather than a dark floor. Think pale bleached tones through to light blonde. Select a floor which has some knots, splits and shaker marks. This adheres to the Japandi principles of celebrating the essential qualities of natural materials. Our floors are graded from A to E, with A grades having very little or no characterful markings, to E grades which have many. We recommend grades C to E for the Japandi look, but the choice within this range is very much up to your personal taste.