Hugo Fleming, director of award-winning local interior design company Cranberryhome, introduces a new interior design trend called ‘Japandi’.

I’m sure many of you have heard of the new interior design trend ‘Japandi’ and were wondering what it
entails and how to create it.

With the Tokyo Olympics in 2021, here is your chance to get into the oriental spirit!

So, what is Japandi? It’s actually a fusion of Japanese and Scandinavian interiors – surprisingly they have a lot in common.

It’s not hard to see why these two styles have been paired. This marriage of two cultures is a hybrid of traditional Japanese minimalism and Scandinavian decor.

If you like Scandi but were looking for a new twist, you may just like this emerging style.

The Japanese concept of ‘wabi-sabi’, translating as finding beauty in the imperfect, blends with the
‘hygge’ aspects of Scandi, which we know adds an atmosphere of warmth and comfort with asymmetry.

Imperfect shapes, rough edges, natural materials and handmade accessories make wabi-sabi similar to rustic
style but with just a dash more austerity to it.

Neutral pale tones of Scandi are balanced by the richness of Japanese palettes. The result is clean lines,
raw functionality, flawless craftsmanship and lots of contrast.

Think of it as a less is more approach. Go for a few statement pieces rather than an abundance of decor.

Create space with functionality in mind. Bring nature into your home by importing the simple deep greenery of houseplants or an elegant vase.

Mixing elements of Japanese and Scandinavian design into your home requires calm and subdued colour palettes and clean lines to all furniture pieces.

Whilst Scandinavian interiors have a tendency to be so neutral, they can appear antiseptic, the rich colour palette of Japanese design gives the room more warmth.

Embrace imperfection, honour authenticity, celebrate craftsmanship and live simply is the motto, ensuring your home is your happy place is key to ensuring your daily balance.

Hugo is often found at Ask an Expert at Grand Designs Live, and is in demand as an interior designer all over the UK. You can email him on hello@cranberryhome.co.uk or visit cranberryhome.co.uk for more information.

This feature was published in the July 2020 issue of Celebrate:MK lifestyle magazine. Read the full magazine above or by clicking on this link.