By: James Bond
The Japandi interior design style has taken the world by storm, blending Eastern and Western aesthetics that appeal to those seeking simplicity and tranquility in their living spaces. CNN reports that this aesthetic surged in popularity in 2020, with interest steadily rising since then.
To understand Japandi, it’s helpful to explore its roots. Scandinavian design, with its focus on functionality, light colors, and a cozy atmosphere, forms the Western side of Japandi. Scandinavian interiors often feature simple furniture, a neutral color palette, and an abundance of light, creating spaces that are both inviting and practical. On the other hand, Japanese design is known for its minimalist approach, emphasizing clean lines and a sense of harmony with nature. Together, these elements form the foundation of Japandi, where the best of both worlds come together in perfect balance.
If you’re inspired to incorporate Japandi into your dining room, here are four key design tips to help you achieve this look.
Choose the right materials
The Japandi aesthetic is characterized by sleek lines and natural materials, making the choice of furniture in your dining room crucial to achieving the desired look. When selecting anchor pieces like dining tables, opt for light wood tones with slim profiles and a time-worn appearance. Light woods, such as oak or ash, are ideal as they add warmth to the space without overwhelming it.
In Japandi design, minimizing visual clutter is essential, and this can be achieved by choosing a dining table with bench. Benches create an open and airy feel, further enhancing the room’s simplistic nature. Living Spaces has a variety of Japandi-style dining sets that align perfectly with these design principles. The Mariko Natural Rectangular Wood dining set, for one, features a light wood finish and raw rattan that patinas and darkens over time, exuding both elegance and functionality.
Incorporate ‘wabi-sabi’ decor
A key concept in Japandi design is the Japanese philosophy of ‘wabi-sabi,’ which celebrates the beauty of imperfection and the natural aging process of materials. In your dining room, this can be expressed through decor pieces that have a sense of history or character. According to Karin Sun, founder of a wabi-sabi-inspired linen company, incorporating touches of nature is another way to bring wabi-sabi into your home.
Decorating with plants, such as a fiddle leaf fig tree, can add a sense of life and vibrancy to the dining room while maintaining the overall aesthetic. Additionally, using washed linen like those from Crane & Company as a finishing touch for your dining table introduces texture and softness, creating a more inviting atmosphere.
Prioritize functional storage
Simplicity is at the heart of Japandi design, and every item in the space should have a purpose. Functional storage solutions are essential to keep your dining room organized and free of clutter. Consider incorporating beautiful bar trolleys that serve as both design elements and practical storage spaces.
The bar trolley N-T01 from the Restaurang ÄNG collection by Norm Architects is an excellent example of Japandi design in action. This piece features a geometric body and clean lines, paired with select high-quality materials, embodying the harmonious blend of Japanese and Scandinavian aesthetics.
Go for warm, sculptural lighting
Lighting plays a crucial role in setting the tone of any room, and in Japandi design, it should be both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Experts from Woman and Home also emphasize that lighting should never be an afterthought. Consider pendant lights with minimalist designs and natural materials, such as bamboo or paper shades. These are perfect for infusing warmth into your dining area.
Add in lamps inspired by Isamu Noguchi’s Akari paper sculptures, like the Joss & Main Astri 1 Pendant, which echoes the simplicity and elegance of Noguchi’s designs. If you prefer a subtle pop of color, the Large Paper Lantern from Urban Outfitters in a blush shade can add a gentle, warm hue to your dining room while staying true to the Japandi aesthetic.
By following these tips, you can create a dining room that reflects the tranquil beauty of Japandi design but also feels uniquely yours. As Japandi design specialist Laila Rietbergen points out, every home and interpretation of this style is different. There’s no strict formula to follow, so feel free to add personal touches that reflect your taste and lifestyle.
Published by: Khy Talara
