Marcy Blum's Tips for Japandi Design
Transform your living space into a world of zen with warm accents of Japanese culture and modern Scandinavian aesthetics.
What is Japandi? The name might just give it away: It’s a hybrid design approach that blends the cultures and aesthetics of Japan and Scandinavia. Think of the traditional, simple elegance of Japanese style combined with the comfort and contemporary style of Scandinavia.
If you’re looking for a minimalist room, but one with warmth and zen, Japandi is what you’ve been looking for! Just follow these steps from NYC designer Marcy Blum to easily create the best of both worlds in your home.
1. Think natural and sustainable materials and neutral colored fabrics
This room uses different types of sustainable materials like wicker and bamboo and has a central coffee table that is hand hewn out of maple. Notice the side table? It’s created out of concrete!
2. Use one statement piece
Keep your space fairly minimalist, but utilize one statement piece. The statement in this room? An exquisitely detailed antique teapot I brought home from Japan. The rest of the décor consists solely of gorgeous plants displayed on shelves, grouped in a basket or even on the floor.
3. Get low
In Japan, many of the furnishings are low to the floor. In keeping true to Japanese style, buy a low sofa and place cushions on the floor!
4. Bring the outside in
Scandinavian design is known for bringing the outside in and not obscuring windows; no heavy drapery or thick blinds. This room is placed against a glass paned wall that lets in fabulous light, and the plants of course underscore the feeling of being one with nature.
5. Think with purpose
In keeping true to a minimalist design, every piece in this room has a purpose. You will not find knick knacks or even candles lying around.
6. Focus on the lighting
The lighting is one of the most important elements of a Japandi style. The lighting should bring in a warm light that is not too harsh, or too moody. The giant overhanging lamp in this room provides the perfect amount of tranquility and Zen.
7. Infuse color
Japandi style utilizes natural colors and luckily Greendigs has planters in various neutral colors that not only compliment the plants, but keep the room from feeling too stark. Bringing the outdoors inside in style, the different types of indoor plants look fabulous against the dark wood of the coffee table and the brick wall.
The Japandi style in this room created an incredibly inviting space. This is a place to rest, dream and escape from the chaos surrounding us. I’m ready to move in and so is my puppy!