Style Guide- Japandi, Designing With Intention
Posted by That Tile Lady on Nov 21st 2024
Japandi has quickly become one of the most sought-after interior design styles, combining the clean, minimalist lines of Japanese design with the warmth and coziness of Scandinavian living. It’s an aesthetic that feels peaceful and uncluttered but never stark—a perfect choice for anyone looking to create a calm, timeless home.
Whether you’re an interior designer searching for your next project’s inspiration or a homeowner wanting to refresh your space, this guide will help you bring the Japandi style to life.
What Makes Japandi So Special?
At its core, Japandi is about balance. It’s minimalist but welcoming, natural but polished, functional yet elegant. The style celebrates the beauty of simplicity while layering in cozy elements that make a space feel like home.
Key features of Japandi design include:
- Neutral Color Palettes: Soft whites, beiges, warm grays, and muted greens, accented with black for contrast.
- Natural Materials: Wood, stone, and ceramics paired with soft textiles like linen or wool.
- Purposeful Design: Every piece serves a functional and aesthetic purpose.
- Textured Accents: Subtle patterns and handcrafted finishes add depth without overwhelming the design.
How to Achieve the Japandi Look
1. Start with a Calm Foundation
Japandi spaces thrive on neutral, earthy tones. Muted colors like beige, white, and light gray create a serene backdrop for layering textures and natural materials.
Tile Ideas:
- New Classic White: A honed porcelain tile with subtle veining, ideal for a calming foundation.
- New Classic Beige: A warm-toned tile that pairs beautifully with wood and stone accents.
2. Let Natural Materials Take the Lead
Nature plays a big role in Japandi design. Look for wood, stone, or bamboo finishes, and incorporate tiles that mimic these materials. Natural elements like ceramic pottery or woven baskets add an organic touch.
Tile Ideas:
- Nobu Sticks Mosaic: A porcelain mosaic with earthy, linear patterns—great for bathroom floors or shower walls.
- Fez Bianco Zellige: A handmade-inspired tile that adds texture and character to backsplashes or accent walls.
3. Keep It Simple, Not Empty
While Japandi embraces minimalism, it’s never cold or bare. Focus on meaningful, high-quality pieces—like a low-profile sofa or a statement light fixture—and give them room to shine.
Pro Tip: Use textured tiles like Nobu Litia to add depth to walls without disrupting the clean aesthetic.
4. Add Layers with Texture
Texture brings warmth to Japandi interiors. Combine smooth finishes with natural fibers like linen curtains or wool throws. Tiles with ribbed or fluted designs can add dimension without overwhelming the space.
Tile Ideas:
- New Classic Lines Beige: A ribbed, textured tile perfect for bathrooms or feature walls.
- Angel Heart Blue: A muted blue tile that introduces a calming, nature-inspired accent.
5. Bring Nature Inside
Japandi spaces connect to the outdoors, so bring in greenery or natural elements. Keep it simple—a bonsai tree, a single branch in a vase, or tiles in earthy tones can blur the line between indoors and out.
Pro Tip: Enhance natural materials with soft lighting to highlight textures, like a tile backsplash under gentle directional light.
Why Homeowners and Designers Love Japandi
Japandi has universal appeal. For homeowners, it transforms cluttered spaces into serene retreats. For designers, it offers endless possibilities to play with texture, balance, and timeless materials.
Its focus on natural beauty and thoughtful design makes Japandi more than just a trend—it’s a lasting investment in style and functionality.
Tile Inspiration for Japandi Interiors
Here are some of our top tile picks for Japandi-inspired spaces:
1. New Classic Collection: Honed finishes and neutral tones make these tiles ideal for Japandi floors and walls.
2. Fez Bianco Zellige: Adds artisanal charm and texture to kitchens or bathrooms.
3. Nobu Sticks Mosaic: A sleek, organic mosaic perfect for smaller areas like shower niches.
Final Thoughts: A Design Style That Lasts
Japandi is more than just a look—it’s a mindset. It’s about living intentionally, appreciating natural beauty, and creating spaces that feel calm and functional. Whether you’re remodeling an entire home or refreshing one room, Japandi offers timeless inspiration.
Ready to start your Japandi journey? Book a discovery call with the Brick City Tile team to find the perfect tiles for this serene, stylish aesthetic. Email hello@brickcitytile.com for a free design consultation.