What is Japandi?
At its core, Japandi embraces the beauty of imperfection, aiming to create a warm and comfortable atmosphere. This design philosophy centers on a minimalist approach, characterized by clean lines and uncluttered spaces with a strong focus on craftsmanship. This is rooted by a mutual appreciation for a "less is more" lifestyle present in both Japanese and Scandinavian influences.
The “look” emanates both form and function, with a touch of wabi-sabi infused imperfection. This minimal approach grows ever crucial for many new homes in Singapore, be it (BTO) flats or Condo units, to maximise its limited living spaces.
Origins.
The truth is, the exact origin of who coined the term “Japandi” is unknown. The birth of the style itself is thought to have emerged as a popular trend in the mid-to-late 2010s when many designers began to emulate the Japandi ideology into their works. However, at its heart, Japandi draws from much older design traditions: Japanese “wabi-sabi” and Scandinavian “hygge”, both of which have deep historical roots. The blending of these two styles reflects a modern synthesis, combining aesthetics and philosophies that have existed for centuries in Japan and Scandinavia.
Timelessness.
Though it may not suit everyone, it’s undeniable that with its deep-rooted philosophies, Japandi offers a timeless appeal that transcends fleeting design trends. The marriage of Japanese and Scandinavian aesthetics creates a design language that is not only visually pleasing but also deeply functional, catering to the human need for simplicity, tranquillity, and connection with nature. This style’s emphasis on natural materials, neutral colour palettes, and purposeful design ensures that it remains relevant across different eras and cultural contexts.
Japandi’s focus on quality over quantity aligns with the movement towards sustainable living. As people become more conscious of their environmental footprint, the demand for durable, well-crafted pieces that stand the test of time is increasing. Japandi perfectly encapsulates this shift, promoting the idea that fewer, high-quality items can create a more meaningful and fulfilling living environment.
Is it here to stay?
Trends can inherently be defined by their fast-paced shift in popularity, often leading to widespread adoption as many seek to embody them. Could this, in turn, give rise to a fear among some individuals that their future home may be plagued by a “cookie-cutter” design? While this concern may hold true on a superficial level for some, the parting advice is to delve into what Japandi is on fundamental level. While trends come and go, Japandi goes beyond what is trending and can be viewed as a way of life, curating a space that is an investment in timeless, quality designs that last for years to come.
Keywords:
Residential design, Japandi, Scandinavian
Written by:
Keith Lam