‘Japandi' is this season's go-to interior style. Here's how to master it

Modern-day Scandinavian interior style has a substantial soft spot for all things simple. Well-curated spaces bathe in soothing, earthy neutrals, creating relaxing environs optimal for recharging. It's a description that could also be easily applied to Japanese interior design, and it's perhaps no surprise that the two are being blended together in one of this year's emerging design trends.

Related: 7 trends that are defining our interiors this year

While significantly more energetic, brightly-coloured aesthetics infuse both the fashion and interior scene this season, the more subtle Japandi style is an alternative contender that could yet dominate in 2022. But what is it exactly and how can you quickly and easily harness it for your home?

With a true home-as-sanctuary mindset, Japandi targets calm and balance, merging sleek Scandinavian interior design with traditional Japanese aesthetics. Incorporating the practice of wabi-sabi has helped lead the way, characterised by its clean lines, neutral palettes, and closeness to nature.

Japandi posits that each component adds value, with visible decor and furniture all serving their purpose for the living space. With a core appreciation for nature, sustainability is unsurprisingly key, with the practice encouraging the use of locally sourced materials – often lighter woods or cedar – in furniture pieces.

In Japan, Morodomi-based furniture producer Ariake, and Tokyo-based architect, and product designer Keiji Ashizawa are at the forefront of the movement, with Ashizawa having collaborated on a number of projects with Danish firm Norm Architects, including for contemporary interior brand Karimoku Case Study’s inaugural collection, entitled Kinuta.

Related: These are the 6 classic Scandinavian furniture pieces every home should have

The pragmatic yet contemporary aesthetic is also seen in Alvar Aalto’s innovative movement Artek and the work of Danish minimalists Menu and tactile Stockholm-based modernists Massproductions.

Muted shades with a warm feel are the way to go. While vibrant statement colours are blossoming in 2022, opt for a classic colour palette guaranteed to never run out of style. Think brown, beige and creamy whites, both presented on the walls and through smaller detailing. To up the contrast game, add darker shades of the neutral line-up, like classic black or darker browns.

The anti-minimalist trend of cluttercore may still be having a moment, but it probably won't surprise you to know that Japandi style is more in line with Marie Kondo's philosophy. Strive for a living environment where every visible piece in the room serves a purpose, a concept closely connected with the art of fu sui (the Japanese equivalent to feng shui). Boost the energy flow by removing items that only take up space, and minimise floor-based detailing or storage solutions to make even the smallest of rooms appear bigger.

Given the strong infatuation with authentic materials, wood can increase the Japandi feel in no time. Swap glossy finishes and industrial metals for genuine natural surfaces and all things wooden. Here the geographical aspect clearly plays a part, with Japan opting for cedar and red-pine infused furniture, while Scandinavia goes for pieces in lighter wood, often ash or oak.

No matter the season, green plants have our hearts. Besides infusing a space with colour, indoor plants reduce stress and boost the homely feel. The Japandi aesthetic doesn’t fully go against plants at home, but it keeps things simple. Settle for a bonsai tree or bamboo plant, but opt against adding too many green components in your home. Complement with a dried branch in a vase for close-to-nature detailing without going overboard.

Related: The 'Arctic Gardener' explains why it’s time you turned to indoor plant therapy