Japandi
A common term in the world of interior design these days is “Japandi. You can’t open a magazine or scroll through your Instagram feed without coming across it. What is Japandi and what does it stand for?
Origin Japandi
The word Japandi is a compound of Japanese and Scandinavian. It refers to the minimalist design that both Japan and the “Nordic” countries are known for. The Nordic countries are Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Denmark and Finland (which is not officially a Nordic country but that aside).
Features
That there are similarities in Japanese and Scandinavian design is abundantly clear. In both cultures there is a fondness for natural materials, especially wood. Other features include understated, minimalist style, a penchant for simplicity and high quality products. Moreover, in both Japan and Scandinavia, people value authenticity and nature. This is reflected in interior design through products created with craftsmanship and the (controlled) incorporation of plants.
Is Japandi a trend?
Although the Japanese/Scandinavian aesthetic is currently emerging as a trend under the name Japandi, its core is actually quite timeless. First, it is based on centuries of cultural development in both parts of the world. Consequently, the cultural connections between the two countries go way back. And as far as Stilst is concerned, simplicity, authenticity, nature and high quality are all timeless characteristics in themselves. The underlying principles are universal but that does not mean that Japandi style interiors make sense in every place. In the Dutch context, Japandi’s stylistic features fit perfectly. Ideally, the same underlying principles are expressed in other places in the world but in a different form and style. A form that relates to local culture and circumstances. That means using local materials, colors and techniques.
design & visualization images: Mosolova, Valeria