Influencer Edits

How To Bring Japandi Style Into Your Home

The minimalist marriage of Japanese and Scandinavian design If you’ve ever felt torn between the calming minimalism of Japanese interiors and the warm functionality of Scandinavian design, you’re not alone. It’s time to embrace Japandi, a hybrid movement that fuses the serene simplicity of Japanese aesthetics with the cosiness and practicality of Scandinavian style. It’s a quietly confident approach to interior design that has taken centre stage in modern homes. To explore how to bring Japandi into your space, we spoke to corporate lawyer and interiors and lifestyle influencer, Mariko Kuo. As a Japanese native renovating her Victorian home in London, Mariko naturally brings the Japandi ethos to life in every detail of her interiors. For Mariko, the serene fusion of Japandi interiors brings together the best of both worlds - wabi-sabi imperfection and Scandinavian simplicity, she’s been able to create a home that is soulful and stylish. Wondering how to bring Japandi into your home? It’s all about balance, restraint and texture. Read on for Mariko’s top tips to effortlessly infuse your space with this timeless aesthetic. Start with a soft and neutral base Japandi interiors begin with a muted and nature-inspired palette - chalky whites, stony greys, soft taupe's and earthy browns. These tones form the perfect backdrop to showcase the harmony between clean Scandinavian simplicity and traditional Japanese craftsmanship. I think these shades create a calm, cocooning effect in my home, which I have paired with our wooden floors and natural timber furniture. The intention behind this was to recreate the feeling of zen and peacefulness I often find during a walk in nature or when sitting in a quiet Japanese garden. It’s about creating an atmosphere that encourages slow and mindful living.  Invest in statement (but subtle) furniture In a Japandi home, furniture is not just functional - it’s architectural. I look for pieces that are minimalist in form, but rich in craftsmanship - built from natural materials with a sense of timelessness. My Carl Hansen & Son Bench is a beautiful example of Scandinavian craftsmanship inspired by Japanese architecture. Stripped of unnecessary details, it’s both functional and elegant - a piece I believe will be passed on to my daughter and future generations. I always try to opt for fewer pieces, but better ones. Japandi interiors aren't about excess; they’re about curation, restraint and letting materials and shapes speak for themselves. Embrace the art of Wabi-Sabi I have always been drawn to the philosophy of wabi-sabi - the beauty of imperfection, impermanence and authenticity. This perspective encourages me to choose items that feel handmade and full of character, like a ceramic bowl with an uneven glaze or a linen throw with a softly frayed edge. One of my most treasured items in my home is my collection of lamps. I love how they not only illuminate a room, but also bring a spiritual light that makes the space feel calm and grounded. Prioritise functionality and flow Japandi is a design philosophy rooted in intentional living. Every item in my home has a purpose and every room should have a flow. I therefore try to avoid clutter by incorporating clever storage solutions that hide the mess while enhancing the overall look of the space. Our wooden panelled shelving units were designed exactly with this in mind - to offer storage, create a focal point and keep the room feeling open. I also love curating open shelves with a few tactile ceramics or a small stack of coffee table books. One of my go-to finishing touches is a Georg Jensen stainless steel piece, which adds a refined and functional elegance. Add soft touches with Scandinavian hygge Japandi allows room for a little Scandinavian hygge; that warm and inviting feeling of cosiness. I love adding softness to a room through layered textures. A wool rug underfoot, a cotton throw on the sofa or a mix of cushions in contrasting materials and tones all help bring depth to space. Some of my favourites are designed exclusively for Heal’s. I have the most beautiful cushions that combine colour, textures and patterns without overwhelming the room. The Pure Alpaca Throw, with its warm tobacco tone, is a staple in my collection. It's incredibly soft and has a timelessly elegant design. Let nature in Nature plays a central role in Japandi design and is an exciting way to reflect the seasons in subtle ways throughout my home. This doesn’t necessarily mean filling every corner with greenery. In fact, I believe less is more. Sometimes, a single branch in a vase or an ikebana inspired floral arrangement is more impactful than an array of houseplants. I choose natural elements that are sculptural and quiet - ones that echo the simplicity and restraint of the Japandi aesthetic while still bringing a sense of life indoors. Mariko is a firm believer that Japandi isn’t just an aesthetic - it’s a lifestyle. It encourages us to be more intentional in how we live, what we bring into our homes and how we relate to the space around us. It’s about finding beauty in simplicity, luxury in restraint, and calm in a chaotic world. Whether you’re redesigning a single room or your entire home, embracing Japandi can help you create a more peaceful way of living.

In People’s Homes

Invest In Walls That Soothe: The Psychology Of Colour With Claire Vallis

We sat down with Claire Vallis, Creative Director of the iconic British brand Sanderson, to talk about how colour and pattern can do more than decorate; they can truly enhance your wellbeing. With a rich heritage rooted in craftsmanship and a deep connection to nature, Sanderson has long believed in the power of design to elevate everyday life. Claire shares how colour psychology, timeless motifs and a thoughtful approach to pattern can help create a more nurturing and joyful home. Sanderson is known for its rich heritage: how do you balance staying true to your history while evolving designs to fit modern lifestyles? Part of Sanderson's charm is its enduring beauty. Whether brought to life from our archive or created new in our design studio, these designs have an enduring quality that stands the test of time. For contemporary homes, we always think about how these patterns remain relevant and often update them through colour palettes while always staying true to that Sanderson design language that we know is so loved. How do you believe the colour of our walls can influence our mood and overall sense of wellbeing? We know that colour significantly impacts our wellbeing and that specific colours speak to individuals. While it isn’t a prescribed method to influence mood and overall wellbeing, I think it’s vital that when picking colour and pattern, you are guided by what speaks to you. Do you feel comforted and cocooned by dark, moodier tones, or do you crave a light airiness in your home? Living with the colours you are drawn to is important for creating personal spaces. What role does colour psychology play in the design and curation of your wallpaper collections? While we’re not psychologists, our designers are very in tune with the emotional responses to colour and pattern and the knowledge that wallpaper can be incredibly impactful and meaningful at home. When creating a new collection, as designers, we are driven by what inspires us and the origins of this inspiration. In Highgrove by Sanderson, our most recent collection in partnership with Highgrove and The King's Foundation, the inspiration was deeply rooted in the gardens and the spirit of working in harmony with nature. This starting point filled us with passion as we created a story of history and nature combined and elevated it through a thoughtful palette of colour. The ambition of this collection is to bring people closer to nature through their interiors and, in doing so, create a sense of harmony at home. How does nature influence the palettes and patterns used in your wallpapers? Is there an element of bringing the outdoors in when it comes to your design process Since its founding in 1860, Sanderson has been influenced by the beauty of nature and the English countryside. Whether it’s a classic floral, a luscious botanical, or a refined landscape, nature inspires us every day. The palettes are indicative of the natural beauty of these inspirations and reflect the details, even down to the season and time of day that nature is observed. Again, with Highgrove by Sanderson as an example, we saw the gardens in winter and again in spring, and witnessed, from the earth, these flowers and plants spring to life in vibrant colour, which was incredible. Our palettes reflect a balance of this natural beauty and saturation. Are there particular colours or motifs that you consider timeless for promoting serenity and joy within the home? Green is endlessly timeless and so calming. That connection to nature’s palette can instantly make you feel joy and serenity. Its shades and tones are also so varied. From sage to artichoke, forest, lichen, and fern, our green palette is inspired by nature and works with every natural light for the ultimate serene experience.

Influencer Edits

Heal’s At Home With Michelle Ogundehin

We sat down with Michelle to discuss her latest favourite Heal’s pieces and her top styling tips for effortless ways to refresh your home for spring. From beautiful furniture to statement accessories, she shares how to elevate your space with timeless design and exceptional craftsmanship. Whether you’re making small updates or starting fresh, Michelle’s selection proves you don’t have to choose between style and practicality. With Heal’s, you can have both.  It’s all about the cushions I love a good sofa - it’s like a daytime bed. The best way to enjoy it? Curl up like kids do, snuggled up with plenty of cushions. Heal’s Limited Edition Linen Cushions are perfect for this, with their double-sided design and delicate trim, allowing you to switch up your sofa’s look in an instant. The power of texture Texture is one of the most important elements in a home – it’s not just about what you surround yourself with, but also what you physically touch. Beautiful linen, soft velvet, and delicate details like fringes can truly transform a space. The Eclipse Cushion by Case in sage and green, for instance, is a perfect blend of my favourite calming hues. Embracing these soft tones and tactile textures is key to creating a home that truly feels like a haven. Subtle yet striking arrangements A new season is the perfect time to refresh your home. Simply rearranging what you have or adding a new pot, vase, or fresh flowers can make all the difference. I love using console tables like the Anais console by Heal’s, a beautiful base where you can curate a few favourite pieces without overdoing it. I also love layering: mixing pots, overlapping pictures - and just make it feel personal and inviting. No rules, just what feels right. Texture isn’t just for textiles; ceramics matter too. The Nium Small Bowl by ferm LIVING has a gorgeous fluted edge, and the Sea Urchin Porcelain Table Lamp adds beautiful ribbed detail. Wherever you can add texture, do it - it makes all the difference. The beauty of natural materials I’m deeply inspired by the natural world when it comes to furnishing my home and choosing materials. The Mushroom Side Table by Gazzda is a perfect example. I love its circular form, no sharp corners to bump into, and its natural oak finish, which feels clean and fresh. The central pedestal design ensures there’s nothing to catch on; it doesn’t get much better than that. It simplifies furniture by using natural materials, and it’s just a pleasure to live with. I really hope you found some of my tips helpful. Remember, your home should be your happy place. Invest in the things that bring you joy.

In People’s Homes

10 Small Patio Ideas To Transform Your Garden

When working with a smaller patio or garden , it can be tricky to make the most of the space you’ve got. We’ve compiled our top patio ideas for small gardens to help you create a chic and practical outdoor space.  Create a shaded area Perfectly practical and the ideal way to incorporate texture into your space, adding a shaded area is great for privacy and creates a cooler area for hosting alfresco meals. Try adding a pergola, for more of a statement piece, or simply a parasol for a more classic feel. Both will centre your garden table and make it the focal point of your space. Make a bold statement with accessories Not only a bold décor piece, but also perfect for patios with limited sunlight, mirrors can be used create the illusion of a larger space and add extra dimension. For enclosed patios, large garden mirrors are the ideal choice and can be placed in corners to really open up the space. An arch shaped mirror creates and elegant and sophisticated feel. For a splash of added colour, outdoor rugs are a great addition to your patio. They can be used to tie together seating areas and help to soften noise in a small space, brining a calm, cohesive feel to your patio. Illuminate your small patio space with lighting Lighting is an innovative way to create spotlight areas in your garden and break up the space, perfect for those long summer evenings. Portable table lamps are a versatile form of outdoor lighting as they can be moved around the space to suit your needs day to day. Wall lights can be a space saving option for outdoor lighting and there are plenty of decorative and stylish options that can elevate the look of your patio. Placement is crucial to maximise space , having lighting at varying heights can create more dimension in a smaller space. Choose compact patio furniture Choosing patio furniture that is compact can maximise a smaller patio, whilst still allowing it to remain functional and stylish. Choose collapsible dining sets or foldable lounge chairs that can be easily stored away when not in use to make the most of your space. Compact benches or stools that can be tucked under dining tables are also another great space-saving option. Go bold with colour schemes Don’t be afraid to go for a bold colour scheme in a small space, choosing sharp colours can actually visually expand the space when done in the right way. Try creating a main focal point that draws the eye, such as a colourful painted feature wall or colourful statement furniture piece. It’s important to balance bold colours with softer, neutral tones so as not to overwhelm the space. Choose light neutral slabs or tiles Choosing the right slabs or tiles for your small patio is key to making it feel spacious. Light or neutral coloured patio slabs will create an airy feel and reflect the light, giving the illusion of a larger space. Neutral coloured patio slabs are extremely versatile and create the perfect base to tie in nicely with all colour schemes. Choose functional furniture with multi-purpose Choosing multi-functional patio furniture is great for small gardens to maximise every part of your space. Garden side tables with storage included are an ideal multi-functional furniture piece to add. Corner seating can save patio space When working with a small patio, its important to use the space in every corner and crevice. Corner seating can save patio space and allows the patio to feel larger. Try an outdoor corner sofa or creating a seating nook in one corner using lounge chairs for a more relaxed feel. Accessorise with greenery Embrace nature whilst adding texture and depth to your small garden by adding a selection of different greenery and plants. Hanging baskets can save patio space and allow you to incorporate lots of different plants. Alternatively, the vertical gardening trend is a perfect way to add plants in a small space as it only takes up a wall or fence panel and creates a beautiful textured statement piece. Try adding climbing plants that grow upwards instead of out. Choose a garden theme Choosing a theme that aligns with your style and tastes for your garden can work well even with a smaller space. A theme will create a cohesive design throughout your garden. Experiment with themes such as rustic, modern or contemporary style to create a space that suits your style. Curious about using outdoor lighting? Explore our complete guide to illuminating your garden.

Latest Trends

The Rise Of Japandi: A Fusion Of Design Traditions From Japan And Scandinavia

Japandi interior design is a modern, soothing style that's gaining popularity for its fresh and harmonious aesthetic. Explore the rise of Japandi style and how you can incorporate it into every room of your home. What is Japandi? Japandi style is the fusion of traditional Scandinavian and Japanese design, combining simplicity, natural elements, and comfort. With its rising popularity and timeless appeal, Japandi style is definitely here to stay. What is the history of Japandi Interior Design? The rich history of Japandi style began 150 years ago, when Danish designers started travelling to Japan, seeking fresh inspiration. The two countries’ cultural ties were formed through the shared design principles of incorporating natural elements, quality craftsmanship and an appreciation for simplicity in design. Japandi interior design combines the Scandinavian design principle of ‘hygge’, the idea that your home should be designed around comfort and wellbeing, with the Japanese aesthetic concept of ‘wabi-sabi’, which prioritises the beauty of simplicity and understated natural forms in interior design. Elements of Japandi Style A core element of Japandi interior design is its neutral colour palette, centred around whites, greys, and earth tones. Simplicity is key, pick one or two main hues and stick with them, avoiding bold colours that might disrupt the overall calm aesthetic. Clean lines throughout are another key element of Japandi style, and choosing furniture with clean lines helps to create a calm, less distracting environment. A clutter-free space is integral for creating the Japandi style within your home, as it helps promote rest and relaxation. Japandi interior design prioritises natural light for a bright, airy atmosphere, helping to create a tranquil and welcoming atmosphere. Japandi style places a strong emphasis on sustainability, prioritising quality, long-lasting pieces and the use of natural and sustainable materials wherever possible. Minimalism is a key element of Japandi interior design, favouring functionality and simplicity of design in every aspect. How to Add Japandi To Your Home Create a Japandi Kitchen with a Neutral Palette To truly embody the Japandi style in your kitchen, embrace natural materials such as light wood or stone countertops. Even small touches, like adding houseplants, can help incorporate natural elements into your kitchen. Minimalism is key to creating a Japandi kitchen, blending functionality and design. Adding a kitchen island is a great way to increase the functionality and efficient flow of your kitchen and is a feature in many Japandi style kitchens. For effective and functional lighting for an island, kitchen pendant lights are a great choice to create focused illumination in one area. Minimalist Living Rooms To create a Japandi living room, it’s key to maintain a minimalist look to achieve the calm, zen-like atmosphere that defines Japandi interiors. Simple, neutral colour palettes without much variation are perfect to embody the minimalism of Japandi style. Try working with one main neutral tone for larger pieces of furniture, like white or cream sofas and darker earthy tones for any accent pieces. While differing colours should be kept to a minimum, layering lots of different textures can be perfect for accentuating the cosy feel of Scandinavian design. Soft textures are ideal for rugs and throws and experimenting with textured fabrics for furniture, such as boucle, can add dimension without overwhelming the space. Carefully chosen, timeless ornaments and accessories can be a great way to incorporate some colour and embrace natural materials too. Try using live plants, ceramic, wood or earthenware accessories. Have a Calm and Relaxing Bedroom Embrace a sense of tranquillity and calm in your home by creating a Japandi bedroom. Choose a wooden bed frame made of light, natural wood to embrace natural materials. Avoid bulky headboards and opt for one with clean lines or even no headboard for a truly minimalist look. Rooted in Japanese tradition, low bed frames lower your centre of gravity, helping reduce anxiety and promote calm, making them the ideal choice of a Japandi bedroom. Functional bedroom furniture pieces that can aid in reducing clutter such as storage benches for the end of the bed or bedside tables with storage are perfect for keeping the space feeling minimalist. The Danish term ‘hygge’ is a principle of Scandinavian design centred around well-being, comfort and cosiness being represented in your living space. Layering lots of luxury bedding adds a cosy feel and warmth and can be a good way to incorporate some colour to cut through the stark, neutral palette. Japandi Bathroom Retreat Combine Japanese minimalism (known as wabi-sabi) and Scandinavian style warmth or hygge to transform your bathroom into a Japandi style retreat. Neutral colours paired with dark accents is ideal for creating a Japandi bathroom. Try pairing a light, natural wood vanity with a dark stone or marble countertop or sink to seamlessly blend neutral tones with striking dark colours and incorporate natural materials. Indirect bathroom lighting can help to give a calm and relaxed feel, try using concealed LED strip lighting under counters to create a soft, minimalist glow or wall lights for more of a statement piece. For bathroom accessories, soft, luxury towels are the ideal addition to keep that cosy feel.

Influencer Edits

How To Bring Brutalist Style Into Your Home

Brutalism is a design movement that celebrates raw materials, bold forms and a connection to the environment. We asked influencer @brutalismichael to give some thoughts on how to incorporate brutalist style into your home. His home, a 1960s estate, naturally lends itself to this aesthetic. He firmly believes that embracing Brutalist style doesn't mean creating a stark, cold environment. It’s about celebrating raw materials, bold forms and practical beauty while ensuring the space remains warm and inviting. Whether you live in a Brutalist building or simply appreciate the aesthetic, these principles will help you embrace the movement in a way that suits your personal style. Key Principles of Brutalist Interiors Honest use of materials One defining characteristic of Brutalism is an appreciation for materials in their raw and authentic state. Pieces made from concrete, wood, metal, or glass that showcase natural textures and finishes work particularly well. My own home features a mix of these, reinforcing the Brutalist ethos of authenticity and practicality. Heal’s choice of furniture, from the clean-lined sofas to the natural wood finishes, adds warmth and softness to the raw concrete backdrop. Form follows function Brutalist interiors emphasise practicality without sacrificing visual impact. Every piece should serve a clear function while also contributing to the aesthetic of the space. Sculptural furniture that is both striking and comfortable is ideal. My Ligne Roset Togo sofa is a perfect example - it has a strong and structured form but is designed for ultimate relaxation. Bold and geometric forms Architectural and geometric elements play a key role in Brutalist interiors. Incorporating strong shapes can enhance the visual depth of a space. Furniture and decor that feature sharp lines, angular structures, or organic yet structured silhouettes can contribute to this aesthetic. My Vilia Rug in Mustard by Linie Design introduces geometric patterns, adding contrast and warmth against the more industrial elements in my home. Monochromatic & neutral colour palette Incorporating a balanced and neutral palette can soften the look while maintaining its essence. Earthy tones such as browns, greys, beiges and deep neutrals help create warmth. My living room palette includes warm browns, greys and earth tones, reflected in my Togo sofa, Vilia Rug, sideboard, turning table, and Muji shelf. A contemporary sideboard in grey and wood tones, paired with an art piece in a similar palette, subtly enhances the mood of mid-century design. Decorative accents, such as photography of Le Corbusier's Unité d'Habitation, pay homage to the movement’s architectural roots. Connection to the environment A key aspect of Brutalist architecture is its relationship with the surrounding environment. In my own home, sunlight enhances my Togo sofa’s sculptural form, making it a focal point. Spatial flow is another important consideration - my wall-mounted shelving system allows for visual continuity and an open display of objects while maintaining the architectural integrity of the space.