Japandi style explained: calm, minimalist and warm

Japandi, a style in which Japanese minimalism, Wabi-Sabi and Scandinavian coziness come together, puts calm and style at the center. It is one of the styles that we at Velida are inspired by. Japandi has become very popular in recent years, but why?

In this blog we dive into what Japandi is, how it originated, and how you can apply this style at home.

What is the Japandi style?

Japandi combines Japanese minimalism with the Scandinavian style. First a quick look at both, then the key features of a typical Japandi interior.

Japanese Minimalism and Wabi-Sabi

Traditional Japanese homes are simple and practical, yet harmonious. That harmony stems from Wabi-Sabi, a philosophy about the beauty of simplicity, calm, modesty and imperfection. It is more than interior design, it is a way of life.

Within Wabi-Sabi you live in the moment. Minimalism and natural cycles like growth and decay are embraced. The idea comes from Japanese Buddhism and focuses on accepting change.

Traditional houses often use rice-paper sliding doors that let in soft daylight.

Scandinavian

Think Sweden, Norway, Finland and Denmark: cold, dark winters, lots of nature. That translates into warm lighting, coziness and soft fabrics. The Danish and Norwegian idea of “hygge” captures that feeling.

Another key concept is “lagom” — balance and moderation. Interiors use a calm base with creams and light pastels, carefully selected furniture and natural materials.

Features of Japandi interior design

Now that we know both roots, here is how they merge in Japandi.

Use of color and materials

Light, airy spaces are a theme in both styles. Colors and materials you often see in Japandi:

• Neutral tones: sand, beige, gray, off-white.
• Materials: wood, bamboo, linen, ceramic, stone.
• Matte and natural finishes.

Scandinavian interiors prefer lighter woods; Japanese influences reintroduce darker woods and earthy hues.

Furniture and layout

Japandi balances function and aesthetics. Low furniture inspired by Japanese living creates serenity; the Scandinavian touch adds comfort and softness.

The layout feels open and calm. Unnecessary decor is avoided so every object serves a purpose.

Accessories and decor

Less is more. Choose a few handmade pieces — a ceramic vase, a minimalist art print, a simple wooden bowl with natural imperfections.

Textiles are subtle: linen curtains, a woven wool plaid, a neutral cotton rug. Lighting mixes Scandinavian warmth with Japanese subtlety like paper lamps and organic shapes.

Plants and green

Japandi connects with nature through a few considered plants such as a bonsai, olive tree or fern, plus dried branches and grasses.

Applying Japandi in your own home

Start with a neutral base

Choose soft, soothing wall tones like beige, light gray, taupe or warm earth colors. Keep patterns quiet.

Choose functional, minimalist furniture

Go for clean lines and natural materials like solid wood, bamboo and linen. Low silhouettes keep the room calm.

Add warm accents

Layer textures and add handcrafted accessories to bring character and warmth.

Minimize and organize

Use built-ins and closed storage so surfaces stay clutter free.

Conclusion

Japandi blends Japanese minimalism with Scandinavian coziness to create a calm, thoughtful home. Natural materials, a neutral palette and functional design make the space feel warm and harmonious.

Want to try Japandi mouldings on your walls? Explore our flexible mouldings and read our installation guide.