Japandi without the clichés: five choices that make the difference

Japandi, the mix of Japanese and Scandinavian living, has been popular for a few years. That also means a lot of clichés: a low sofa, a bonsai, a bamboo tray and done. These are the five choices that, in our view, really make it.

1. Empty space is a choice

The most important part of japandi is invisible: the empty spot. A wall without a painting, a corner without a plant. It feels unfinished at first, but it gives the things that are there room to breathe.

2. Natural fibres, undyed

Jute, seagrass, linen and bamboo in their own colour. No painted rattan or bleached wood.

3. Low light

A bamboo or paper pendant hung low over the table, and otherwise lamps at hip height or lower. Japandi uses little ceiling light.

4. One dark accent

All that pale wood and beige needs an anchor: a black frame, a dark vase or a chair in dark wood.

5. Imperfection

Handmade ceramics with an irregular rim, a hand-spun rug. It is fine to see that someone made it.

Japandi without the clichés: five choices that make the difference

1. Empty space is a choice

2. Natural fibres, undyed

3. Low light

4. One dark accent

5. Imperfection

Shop the look

Bamboo pendant lamp, adjustable cord

Small hand-spun jute rug

Wooden bench with seagrass seat

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