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.
[ INSPIRATION ]
Trends & Lifestyle
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.
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.
By Pippa Jameson, Interior Stylist, Author and Founder of The Sensory Home®
At Heal’s and The Sensory Home®, we’re passionate about how our surroundings influence our mental and emotional well-being. This is the essence of sensory design—a thoughtful, multi-sensory approach to creating spaces that support us physically and emotionally. The environment we live in has a profound impact on how we feel, think, and rest.
In the case of the bedroom—a space specifically designed for sleep—embracing sensory design principles can be life-changing. Heal’s and The Sensory Home® are here to help you achieve a better night’s sleep. With just a few simple changes and product suggestions, we can transform your bedroom into a place of calm and comfort, ensuring you feel rested and recharged every day.
What Is Sensory Design?
Sensory design engages the key senses—sight, touch, sound, scent, and even taste—to create an environment that positively affects how we feel and function. When we consider a bedroom as a place for rest and rejuvenation, we must remember its primary purpose: to promote sleep.
We must carefully consider the items we choose to surround ourselves with; sensory design reminds us to strip back distractions and bring balance to the space, encouraging relaxation and mental clarity. This multi-sensory approach is particularly important for mental well-being. In today’s world, where stress and overstimulation are constant, in the workplace and at home, our bedrooms should become calm spaces—a safe retreat where we can rest and reset.
Why Is This Connection Crucial for Mental Well-Being?
Our environments are directly linked to our mental health. A cluttered, overstimulating bedroom can make it harder for the brain to switch off. In contrast, a space designed for relaxation and purpose can help us sleep more soundly, reduce anxiety and improve focus, so we should prioritise intentional design. Sleep is one of the most fundamental pillars of self-care, and it starts with creating a bedroom that is kind to our senses.
Think about this: if your bedroom is filled with harsh lighting, uncomfortable textures, or constant noise, your mind stays on high alert. This creates an environment that is not conducive to sleep. A well-designed bedroom helps regulate your senses and prepares your body for rest and supports your mental well-being.
Here are five practical ways to transform your bedroom using sensory design principles:
Create the Right Lighting
Lighting is one of the most powerful elements in sensory design. Harsh and blue-toned lights keep you alert and make it harder to fall asleep. Choose soft and warm lighting that signals it’s time for rest.
The Pebble portable lamp and Parade LED Table Lamp offer sleek and adjustable lighting suitable for winding down. For versatility, the Ease Lamp is a portable option that allows you to create soft ambient light wherever needed.
The Colonna Marble Table Lamp is an excellent choice because its linen shade softly diffuses light for a calming ambience. Its smooth and natural marble base adds a grounding touch. By controlling brightness and avoiding harsh overhead lighting, you can set a calming atmosphere that helps your brain and body unwind.
Incorporate Mindful Practices
A multi-sensory approach to bedtime includes caring for your mental clarity. Journaling or reflecting for just five minutes can help remove mental clutter, making it easier to fall asleep.
Writing down worries or plans signals to your brain that letting go of stress for the night is okay. The Togo offers ergonomic comfort, the perfect chair for mindful rituals like journaling or deep breathing exercises.
Engage Your Senses
Sensory design emphasises the importance of touch, scent and even sound.
Touch: Invest in breathable and natural fabrics that keep you cool and comfortable. Heal’s new microfibre duvet range is a sustainable option that offers luxurious comfort while regulating body temperature.
Scent: Diffusers with essential oils like bergamot or lavender can calm your mind and signal that it’s time to sleep.
Sound: The Chali rug’s soft texture and sound-absorbing properties make it an ideal grounding element for a calming and sensory-focused bedroom. Layering rugs with an underlay further enhances noise absorption, while filled bookshelves act as effective natural sound barriers. For additional noise reduction, consider incorporating acoustic panels or sound-absorbing textiles.
Block Out Distractions
The bedroom is for sleep and any distractions should be minimised. A high-quality eye mask can block out light, while rugs with underlay can muffle unwanted sound from floors.
Bookshelves filled with books can act as stylish sound absorbers, while acoustic panelling provides long-term noise reduction. By prioritising quiet and darkness, you allow your senses to fully relax.
Read to Relax
Reading is a powerful way to shift your mind into a state of restfulness. Instead of staring at a screen, grab a book that inspires calm and creativity. My book, The Sensory Home® explores how design impacts well-being and offers practical tips for creating spaces that support you emotionally and mentally. Pair it with a cosy nook or your bed for the ultimate wind-down ritual.
The Function of the Bedroom: A Sanctuary for Sleep
We often forget the simple function of a bedroom: it’s a space for sleep and everything in it should serve that purpose. From lighting and furniture to textures and scents, every element in your room should contribute to an environment that promotes rest.
By taking a multi-sensory approach to design, you can transform your space into a sanctuary where you feel calm, supported and ready to take on the day.
About Pippa Jameson
Pippa Jameson is the founder of The Sensory Home® and one of the UK’s leading interior stylists, celebrated for her expertise in creating thoughtful, emotion-driven spaces. With over 20 years of experience, she has worked with renowned brands and publications, blending creativity with a deep understanding of how our surroundings influence well-being.
Through The Sensory Home®, Pippa champions the art of designing interiors that engage the senses—spaces that not only look beautiful but also feel harmonious, soothing, and inspiring. You can read more about Pippa’s work at The Sensory Home®.
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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As the self-confessed ‘creative director’ of their Victorian terrace in south-east London, writer Robyn Donaldson (@around.robyn) has filled her home with plenty of character and personality, all designed to be a conversation-starter for visiting friends and family.
So, how did the "creative control freak" – her words, not ours – find partnering with our Interior Planning Service to create an office that would encourage restaurateur husband Jamie to work from home more?
We caught up with influencer Robyn and Alejandra from IPS at Heal’s to hear about the collaborative project, discover their favourite pieces and learn how the room works for Jamie now.
Robyn, can you tell us about you, your family and your home?
“I'm Robyn, a writer, arts project manager and unmistakably Northern person, living with my restaurateur husband Jamie and our two hysterical dogs in a Victorian terrace in deepest south-east London.
We've been here for two years and in that time turned what was a 90s’ time capsule into the very best vintage pleasure palace this world has ever known. Well, sort of… we're almost finished!”
How would you describe your style? And who is in charge of décor?
“My style is vintage, heavily arts-inspired, and swings towards maximalism. We're talking modern-day Bloomsbury-set vibes. Creativity is at the core. Nothing is mass-produced or low on impact. I mix up original artwork and ceramics with antiques and future heirlooms for a classical look with a contemporary twist.
Every single thing in my home has to be a conversation-starter, be that by heritage or design, and I’m very much the creative director in our home while Jamie's the ops guy.”
Do you have the same taste?
“I think Jamie likes whimsical, fun and theatrical, though less so than me. He'll be effusive when he likes or hates something but doesn't get bogged down if something just isn't his jam.”
What renovation project did you work on with IPS?
“Our study, which is primarily for Jamie, ironically. I wanted somewhere that would entice him to actually work from home. A space that fused function and comfort with visual wonder. It had to work for both me, as a super-mobile freelancer who needs constant stimulation, and Jamie, who can sit in one place for longer than seems humanly possible.”
Can you talk us through your experience of the process and what steps were involved? Was it collaborative?
“The whole process was wonderful and worked so well for this creative control freak. First, I met the team in-store for a walk-around after e-briefing them on the room we were working with, the dimensions and kind of feel we wanted to achieve.
We wandered round the store, looked at furniture and textiles and lovely little finishing touches that might be right, and basically gave the team an idea of things we loved and what we'd like included.
They then came back with suggested themes that could be tweaked, and man, did I tweak (before them tweaking back as some of my tweaks were completely ludicrous – I would have had to commando-roll over the giant desk I wanted to get!) before settling on a plan for a fully-formed room to decant into the empty, dusty shell we'd been living with. I'm not kidding when I say the only thing they didn't help us with is unpacking the boxes when it all arrived.”
What are some of your favourite pieces?
"I love all of the Heal's pieces in our study but there are a few that have a special place in my heart. The ceramics by Talia Nidam Warshawsky are amazing and something I think are so synonymous with Heal's as a brand. Having these beautiful, tactile little works of art in my home is just such a treat.
And the Remi sideboard is a masterclass in the most premium materials, next-level craftsmanship and furniture you know will be with you for life. Everything in the room is such a feast for the eyes while being functional and made to last – the actual dream."
Are you happy with the result?
“We’re so thrilled. The room is unmistakably Heal’s. I have always loved the retailer for its focus on makers and the little bits of affordable magic you can pick up alongside the heavy-hitting cornerstones of a room that are always amazing quality.
We got the ‘pillars’ of the space – the shelves, the beautiful desk and the sideboard – then injected the pattern via the rugs, blankets and cushions and added arty finishing touches. And we got it all to fit into this small space which is all thanks to the miraculous skill of the people at IPS.
They get scale and know how to inject personality, so for someone who is all about the looks but often finds making a workable scheme more difficult, they were the ultimate knowledgeable ears.”
What’s next?
“Erm, want to come back when we do the loft extension?!”
Alejandra, can you tell us about the brief?
“The project was to design the study in an end-of-terrace Victorian home in south-east London. Both Robyn and Jamie work from home and needed a dedicated space with a desk and storage for books and styling.
The study connects to the living room via a pair of beautiful reclaimed bi-fold doors. Creating cohesion between the two spaces was an important part of the design brief. Each new piece was carefully selected to ensure it complemented and balanced with the existing living space.
The result feels connected and considered, while allowing each room to feel unique and brimming with personality, just like the homeowners.”
How would you describe their taste?
“Robyn’s taste is all about literature, arts, paintings, books and creativity. I would certainly describe her taste as eclectic, where a rich colour palette and pattern live in perfect harmony.”
Can you talk us through the steps of collaborating with clients?
"The first step is an introductory meeting where we get to know our clients, to gain a better understanding of their style preferences, the requirements of the space, timelines and budget. Then we have a look at the pieces in-store to discover which they are drawn to and gather inspiration.
Next is creating scaled floorplans on CAD software, to map the space, and moodboards, which allow the client to visualise how the shortlisted selection of items works together as a cohesive design scheme."
Can you pull out a few key pieces you chose for the scheme?
"Our Remi sideboard is one of the key pieces in this project. Its versatile design makes it suitable for a study, dining room or hallway and provides much-needed storage. Its slatted door-fronts create some interesting texture that contrasts with the deep tones of the marble top. The classic walnut Treviso desk from L.Ercolani paired beautifully with the clean lines of the Adam Wood bookshelf from Kartell."
How would you describe the result?
"This project packs a punch where the blue walls showcase Robyn’s collection of contemporary artwork. We purposely selected a walnut finish for the furniture to allow the deep rich tones of the wood to provide balance within the design scheme."
Finally. what would you say to those considering working with IPS on their home?
"We are here to help you! Whether it’s a single room or a full house, we collaborate to bring your home to life. Our Interior Planning Service is ideal since the expert design team offers step-by-step guidance to ensure that your final design scheme is both balanced and harmonious."
Discover how our Interior Planning Service can help you.
With thanks to:
FloristBloom East
DressLouisa Pariss
ArtistsAdébayo BolajiAlly McIntyreStuart McHarrieJessie Woodward
SignwriterHector Lloyd
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