You may not be familiar with the term, but you’ve seen it countless times if you’re into design at all: light-filled rooms in muted shades that give off a feeling of softness, filled with tactile furniture, minimally decorated. They’re orderly, but not too strict; there’s a sense of serenity to the space that feels inspired by both Western and Eastern influences.
“Japandi” is what this aesthetic is called, and it’s a great style to incorporate into your home. The harmonious fusion of Japanese minimalism and Scandinavian warmth offers a serene and stylish aesthetic that’s perfect for any space, but especially the heart of your home – the kitchen. If you’re looking to infuse your kitchen with the calming essence of Japandi design, here are 4 simple rules to pull it off successfully:
1. Embrace Natural Materials
Japandi design celebrates the beauty of natural materials, so fill your kitchen with furniture and decorative items made out of wood, bamboo, stone, and clay, bringing a sense of organic warmth into the space. Choosing sustainable materials whenever possible also aligns with the eco-conscious principles of both Japanese and Scandinavian cultures.
House of Leon’s white oak counter stools are the perfect addition to any Japandi kitchen. They offer two choices, both made out of white oak: the Teddy Counter Stool and the Nonna Counter Stool.
The Teddy features a thin, minimalist frame and a wide seat covered in acrylic boucle fabric that does not absorb liquid or food spills, while the Nonna stands tall and strong, with a seat made out of soft woven jute that is soft to the touch yet incredibly durable. These white oak counter stools are available on the House of Leon website.
2. Keep it Simple
True Japandi style dictates that less is definitely more. Decluttering your kitchen offers several benefits beyond making it look better: a clutter-free kitchen is also a functional one that allows you to work more efficiently, and it’s more hygienic, too, as clutter can harbor dust, dirt, and pests. Additionally, a clean kitchen is a safe kitchen that also promotes mindfulness and relaxation as you prepare your meals.
Start by decluttering your kitchen space and opting for sleek, minimalist furnishings. Avoid clutter and excess adornments, and instead focus on clean lines and minimalist aesthetics. Opt for sleek, streamlined cabinetry and furnishings to create a sense of calm and order in your kitchen space.
3. Balance Functionality with Beauty
Kitchens are, first and foremost, functional spaces. Yours should work with you, not against you. Fortunately, Japandi design prioritizes functionality without sacrificing style.
When designing your Japandi kitchen, prioritize efficiency and practicality. Choose multi-functional furniture pieces, such as kitchen islands with built-in storage or dining tables that can double as workspaces. Keep the layout open and intuitive to ensure smooth workflow and easy access to essential items.
4. Opt for Neutral Colors
Choosing neutral colors such as white, beige, gray, and taupe in your kitchen doesn’t just have a soothing effect. You can also count on them not to go out of style quickly, which means that your kitchen won’t look outdated even as trends change. Neutrals also tend to reflect light better than darker shades, making the kitchen appear brighter and more spacious. In a room where tasks like cooking and food preparation require good visibility, ample lighting is crucial. It also just looks more cohesive and harmonious – two key tenets of Japandi design.
When decorating your kitchen, stick to the abovementioned colors to create a sense of serenity and sophistication.
By following these simple rules, you can create the perfect Japandi-inspired kitchen that effortlessly combines the elegance of Japanese minimalism with the warmth of Scandinavian design. With careful attention to detail and a focus on harmony, your kitchen will become a sanctuary of style and tranquility for years to come!