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.
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Trends & Lifestyle
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.
We asked our team what Heal’s at Home means to them and they didn’t disappoint. Step behind the scenes to discover which designs our buyers, CEO and epic marketers have in their homes.
Kris, Senior Buyer
Balmoral Sofa
I love my Balmoral Sofa. It’s eye catching and a perfect spot to cosy up in. There’s always an argument on who gets to sit on the sofa.... sadly my daughter always wins! When it’s time to reflect after a crazy day, I also like to burn my Heal’s scented candles.
Molly, Content
Alexander Girard's Love Mug
Alexander Girard is one of my favourite designers and I’d happily fill my home with his designs. As a more affordable compromise I have a few of his accessories and patterns scattered throughout. I always drink my morning cuppa in the ‘Love’ Mug from Vitra!
Claire, Lighting Buyer
Column Table Lamp in Green
This gorgeous, dimmable Column Table Lamp sits in the corner of my living room and gives a lovely warm glow in the evening.
Ruth, Head of Marketing
Paul Smith Anglepoise Lamp
I love the Paul Smith edition of the iconic Anglepoise, it lends another dimension to the lamp. I have mine positioned on a shelf to highlight by favourite accessories, books and prints.
Hamish, CEO
Fawn Sideboard
My Fawn Sideboard is my favourite Heal's piece. Not only does it look stylish and beautiful with its soft curves, but it also perfectly houses my treasured record collection!
Emily, Buyer
Urban Apothecary Candle
Urban Apothecary scents are perfect now we’re spending more time at home. The vessel itself is stylish so it looks good even when it’s not lit, and the fresh scent of Green Lavender fills the room.
Kris, Senior Buyer
Ziggy Lounge Chair
This Ziggy accent chair is one of my favourite pieces in the house. It’s the perfect place to read a book, contemplate or simply look out onto the garden. So soft and tactile, it sparks so much attention with every guest we have.
Have you got a favourite design from Heal's at home? Share it on Instagram using the hashtag #HealsHome
Fresh from the Little Plantation kitchen, have a go at this Raw Vegan Turmeric Chia Pudding recipe. Quick, easy and delicious, it's the perfect option for a healthy breakfast. —
RAW VEGAN TURMERIC CHIA PUDDING (ChF, GF, NF, R, V+, V)
Preparation Time: 5 - 10 minutes Soaking Time: 15 - 30 minutes Serves: 2
Just like honey: Mervyn Gers Dinnerware and Moroccan Dinnerware
Ingredients for the chia pudding:
1 cup/240ml plant-based milk (I used home-made cashew milk for extra creaminess, but any milk will do)
4tbs chia seeds
3/4 tsp turmeric powder
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground ginger a pinch of ground cardamom a pinch of pepper
Ingredients for the topping:
1/2 cup/120ml of (vegan) yoghurt (I used a soya based yoghurt but a raw coconut yoghurt would work really well here too)
A handful of pomegranate seeds
A handful of berries of your choice - strawberries, raspberries, blueberries etc.
A sprinkle of chia seeds or ground flax seeds
2 tsp (or more to taste) of raw honey or maple syrup
You old smoothie: Carats Glass Tumblers
Instructions Combine all the chia pudding ingredients in a large bowl by mixing them thoroughly. Then set aside for 15 - 30 minutes, until the chia seeds fully absorb the liquid and spices. When the chia seeds are ready, spread them evenly into two serving glasses, top with the yoghurt, fruits, seeds and sweetener and enjoy!
Tip 1: If you wish to use a home-made plant-based milk, remember to soak your nuts the night before assembling this chia pudding. As noted above, I used cashew milk, but you can use any milk really. Remember that many store bought plant based milks are sweetened and hence you may need to reduce the amount of honey you use. Though I don't encourage it, you can also use regular milk which will make this a vegetarian, rather than vegan recipe.
Tip 2: Both the pepper and the fat from the yogurt will help you better absorb the turmeric, so they are essential parts of this recipe
Tip 3: You can use fresh ginger and turmeric, but as they tend to be more potent you may need to reduce the amounts you use :).
Tip 4: To make this recipe kiddie friendly, I had to add an extra dollop of honey. Just saying ;)
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‘Slow decorating’ has become a buzzword in the design community, referring to consciously and slowly furnishing your home by selecting quality pieces and taking time to enjoy a more gradual process.
It’s the opposite of the quickfire ‘room reveals’ that flood our feeds on Instagram. The antithesis of tapping into a trending aesthetic only to change it again a few months later. And the reverse of refurbishing a house as quickly as possible. It's thoughtful and considered.
But while others are billing the concept of slow decorating as a trend, we think of it more as a sustainable approach to design, similar to the one we adopted many years ago. Which is why everything from our furniture and lighting to accessories and soft furnishings are selected for superior craftsmanship and quality materials.
It makes for designs that truly stand the test of time and can be passed down from generation to generation; and, in turn, help you shop and style your home more sustainably. It's an ethos captured in Heal’s Cares – our commitment to quality design – which you can read here.
So, how do you actually go about slow decorating?
It starts with quality design
Shopping at Heal’s is your first step when it comes to slow decorating. We believe in creating, and curating, timeless pieces that transcend seasons and trends so that every choice you make for your home really counts.
There’s no place for throwaway culture in our business, meaning better value for money and price-per-use for you, and more importantly, less waste for the environment. We craft products that will last a lifetime – for example, our solid wood sofa frames come with a lifetime guarantee – and use the right materials for the right products, while working with natural or recycled materials where possible.
Most of our producers are based in the UK or mainland Europe to minimise our carbon footprint, and we always try to support heritage skills honed by the passions and talents of artisans over the years.
From Heal’s creations to curated designs, enjoy getting inspired by great designs to help you create a home you love.
Take your time
The clue’s in the name when it comes to slow decorating. Take your time to get to know your home before jumping straight in. Consider the light in each space or how you use every room. Get to understand the style of the property and how you’d like to put your stamp on it.
Then make carefully-considered decisions when it comes to selecting designs and bringing your vision to life. Are they investment pieces? Do they have more than one function? Can they be reupholstered if you want to change the colour down the line?
Think quality over quantity and gradually build up your scheme by layering furniture (bigger pieces first) with lighting (multiple styles for a professional look), accessories (consider different shapes and sizes) and soft furnishings (texture is key).
Why not combine design classics with hand-me-downs and vintage finds? A gloriously eclectic – and sustainable – way to decorate. Slowing down the whole process doesn’t just ensure a considered scheme, but staggers costs, too, helping with all-important budgeting.
Finish by repurposing something old
Even when designs are created to endure, sometimes you still might want to change things up, as a scheme is never truly finished. That’s why we’ve partnered with Hackney Upholstery Studio to offer an expert upholstery service for your furniture.
Based in east London and founded by Polly Fenech and Marine Potrais, both of whom have a background in fashion buying, the studio aims to showcase the skill of upholstery and value of the craft to a new generation of design-conscious clients.
Whether you’re giving a vintage piece a new lease of life, or simply refreshing your style, the service will ensure a much-loved design can be enjoyed for many more years to come.
Get inspired for your slow decoration interior scheme by browsing and buying from our collection of quality furniture, lighting, accessories and soft furnishings; or, if you need a helping hand, get in touch with our Interior Planning Service to help develop a look you’ll love for years to come.
Have lots of clothes but can’t find what to wear? That could be because your wardrobe needs organising – from clearing out pieces you don’t wear to categorising what you do – to ensure a harmonious wardrobe that works hard for you and your lifestyle.
But if you’re overwhelmed by the thought of decluttering, fear not. Our methodical process provides the best way to organise your wardrobe, making it intuitive and enjoyable.
Set aside time
There’s no denying that organising your wardrobe takes energy and time, so schedule a specific time slot for tackling the task, whether that’s an evening when you’d usually be watching television, or during the weekend (a Sunday morning when everyone else in the house is asleep, for example?).
Remember, you don’t need to do it all in one hit, either: you could break it down into 30-minute chunks each and every evening to make it feel less daunting.
Make a plan
Next, think about what your dream wardrobe looks like, in terms of both how it looks and functions. Will it be colour-coded? And is there a way of rotating outfits so you don’t end up wearing the same thing every week?
Moodboarding exactly what you want out of the process will help you stay focused as you work through it – a tool like Pinterest is a great source of inspiration.
Organising Your Wardrobe in 9 Steps
Empty your wardrobe
First thing is first: a wardrobe clear-out. Remove everything so you can give all the surfaces a good clean.
Assess your space
Next, see exactly what storage you have in terms of drawers, hanging rails and divan beds to understand if you have enough space for accommodating your clothes.
Think about storage options
If you don’t, consider investing in new storage to suit your taste and space, whether a spacious wardrobe or a compact chest of drawers. Our collection of luxury furniture, whether Heal’s creations or curated designers, brings together style and storage to offer timeless designs.
Try everything on
As a rule of thumb, if you haven’t worn something in over a year, then it’s time to give it away. Try everything on to check you’re happy with how pieces fit and that they’re still in good condition. Only keep items you can’t live without to help create an edited capsule wardrobe.
Make sure you’ve got a flattering floor mirror that will show your outfits at full length before you start. We rather like the Brunel with clever hanging space incorporated into its design or the simplicity of our Oxbow with its boutique-inspired aesthetic.
Sort your clothes
Now for the fun bit: sorting clothes by categorising them in three distinct piles – to sell, to think about or to give away. You could add a fourth pile in pieces you might want to customise. Perhaps they need repairing or modernising, for example. But how do you decide what clothes to keep?
In short, only keep those that make you look and feel great. You could always enlist the help of a trusted friend to get a second opinion and make the process that bit more fun. Why not make an evening of it?
Get rid of unwanted clothes
There are a number of ways of getting rid of clothes you no longer want. Donate them to your local charity shop; or deposit them in a clothing bank (a quick search online will reveal ones close to where you live). Alternatively, you could always offer them to friends or family.
Group clothes by category
With an edit complete, it’s time to categorise what you’re keeping, either by colour, type or season. There’s nothing more pleasing than a closet sorted by shades from darks to lights, jumpers piled high together and trousers hung uniformly in a row, or a complete summer collection separated from winter wear.
Why not invest in a divan bed with storage beneath? Your wardrobe can display clothing for the current season while your bed can house pieces for the next.
Maintain organisation
Arguably, the hardest bit about organising your wardrobe is keeping it that way once you’ve done it. The easiest way of doing this is making sure everything is in order little and often – when you put laundry away, for example – or operating a ‘one in, one out’ policy: for every new item you purchase, an old one needs to go.
Trust us: getting dressed in the morning and planning your outfits will be so much easier.
Store your clothes correctly
Remember, one size doesn’t fit all when it comes to how you store different items of clothing. Jumpers and t-shirts should be folded and stored in drawers or on shelves, for example, while trousers and shirts are best hung on rails. If you’re out of space, why not invest in a neat clothes hanging rail to catch the overspill?
Browse and buy functional but fabulous storage solutions to help keep your clothing organised.
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