Japandi

Easy going and sophisticated, Japandi is a hybrid architectural style bringing together the best features of Scandinavian functionality with Japanese minimalism. The Japandi house is dedicated to simplicity, quality, craftmanship and natural materials. The aesthetic is minimal without being cold, utilising natural materials, neutral colours and simple layouts with an emphasis on indoor/outdoor living.

Japanese and Scandinavian design styles have many complementary qualities, both characteristically minimalist in their approach whilst also prioritising comfort, the importance of tranquillity and connection to nature. Similarities extend to how both styles draw inspiration from local pioneering principles: ‘wabi-sabi’ in Japan and ‘hygge’ in Scandinavia. The Japanese ‘wabi-sabi’ worldview appreciates the imperfect, impermanent, and incomplete beauty of the natural world and strongly emphasises humans' relationship with nature. ‘Hygge’ (pronounced hoo-ga) is an obsession in Scandinavia encompassing a feeling of cozy contentment and well-being through enjoying the simple things in life.

Where the two approaches diverge, their differences complement each other. Where Japanese interiors are sleek, Nordic ones are rustic. The richer colours of Japanese design help to keep the stark, crisp palettes of Scandinavian homes from feeling clinical. The Japandi aesthetic is minimal without being cold, utilising natural materials, neutral colours and simple layouts with an emphasis on indoor/outdoor living. As a result, Japandi-style homes feel cosy and warm whilst also providing a sense of tranquillity and calm via the biophilic benefits of living closer to nature.

The Japandi style has gained traction as a stunningly simple code that prioritise nature and sustainability. Interior examples dominate however Japandi exteriors continue to evolve, cementing this code's relevance to the Australian and New Zealand way of life.

Options in select areas:

Hardie™ Groove Lining:  Use for feature interior walls and ceilings and externally on eaves and soffits.

Oblique™ Weatherboard:  Interior feature walls

Why Now?

• Japandi architecture emphasises simple spaces that can provide a sense of calm against the busyness of life, an antidote to post-Covid global stressors
• Flexible spaces are fundamental to the Japandi style. Connection and separation throughout the home are key, allowing spaces to be used independently but can come together as needed.
• Retractable screens and sheets are often used to divide rooms, rather than doors, creating a sense of openness but also privacy.
• The seamless connection between indoors and outdoors creates a sense of retreat

Japandi caters for multi-purpose living and working lifestyles, allowing for cocooning and a sense of retreat and respite. Homes celebrate simplicity and can provide a sense of control, calm and order amidst the busyness of life.