Have you ever wished your bathroom felt more like a serene retreat and less like a chaotic space where toiletries go to multiply? If so, you might be interested in learning more about Japandi design. It’s a beautiful interior design style that has been on the rise for the last few years, and could be the perfect match for your bathroom.
This style blends the rustic minimalism of Scandinavian design with the timeless elegance of Japanese aesthetics. The two may seem at first glance to be odd bedfellows, but the balance in the combination is incredibly harmonious. The look is calm, functional, and effortlessly stylish. It’s all about creating a space that feels both cosy and uncluttered – a sanctuary where you can unwind after a long day. Let’s look at what makes Japandi work so well and how you can bring this tranquil vibe into your own bathroom.
What is Japandi Style?
Japandi is a hybrid trend that combines the best of two worlds. From Scandinavia, it takes the concept of hygge (pronounced ‘hoo-gah’, like nougat), which is all about creating a feeling of cosy contentment. Think warm textures, clean lines, and a clutter free environment. It’s that feeling of being snug and happy at home, which, let’s be honest, is something we could all use more of.
From Japan, it borrows the philosophy of wabi-sabi, which finds beauty in imperfection and appreciates the authenticity of natural materials. This means celebrating the unique grain of a piece of wood or the gentle texture of a stone basin. It’s about creating a space that feels grounded and connected to nature.
When these two philosophies come together, they create a style that is both simple and warm, minimalist yet inviting. A Japandi bathroom is a space that is functional, beautiful, and promotes a sense of peace and wellbeing.
Six ways to create a beautiful Japandi bathroom
Ready to bring a sense of calm to your daily routine? Here are six practical tips for creating a Japandi-inspired bathroom.
1. Start with a Neutral Colour Palette
The foundation of any Japandi space is its colour scheme. Stick to a palette of soft, neutral tones to create a calming atmosphere. Ideal shades are white, cream, beige, and light grey. These colours reflect light, making your bathroom feel larger and more open. You can introduce subtle contrast with darker accents like charcoal or black, often seen in Japanese design, to add depth and visual interest.
2. Embrace Natural Materials
Japandi design celebrates nature, so incorporating organic materials is a must. Light woods like oak and maple are perfect for vanity units and shelving, adding warmth and texture. You can also use materials like bamboo for accessories, stone for countertops or basins, and ceramic for tiles. These natural elements help to create a space that feels grounded and connected to the outdoors.
3. Keep It Simple and Uncluttered
A crossover element, both Japanese and Scandinavian design favour a ‘less is more’ approach. In a Japandi bathroom, every item should have a purpose and a place. Avoid clutter on your countertops by using smart storage solutions. The goal is to create a clean, open space that allows you to breathe and relax. This doesn’t mean your bathroom has to be bare, just that everything in it should be chosen with intention.
4. Smart Storage is Your Best Friend
A clutter-free space is a happy space. To maintain that serene Japandi feel, you need clever storage to keep your lotions and potions organised and out of sight. Make sure that fitted cupboards optimise the available space, and include floating shelves and vanity units with deep drawers.
One of our favourite storage solutions is our recessed, LED-lit shelves. These can be integrated seamlessly into shower enclosures or above the bath. They provide a sleek, minimalist storage spot for your shampoo and soap without taking up any visual space. The gentle backlighting adds a soft glow, contributing to the spa like atmosphere. It’s a practical feature that looks incredibly chic and keeps your surfaces clear.
5. Choose Functional, Minimalist Fixtures
When it comes to fixtures, go for clean lines and simple forms. A freestanding bath with an elegant, sculptural shape can become a stunning focal point. For smaller bathrooms, a walk in shower with a frameless glass screen maintains an open, airy feel. Taps and showerheads in matt black or brushed finishes complement the Japandi aesthetic perfectly, adding a touch of understated sophistication.
6. Add Thoughtful Accessories
Accessories in a Japandi bathroom should be minimal but meaningful. A few carefully chosen items can complete the look without creating clutter.
Here are a few ideas:
- Plants: A touch of greenery is perfect for bringing nature indoors. A simple bamboo plant, a small bonsai tree, or a hanging fern can add life and colour to your space.
- Textiles: Introduce soft textures with high quality towels, a simple bath mat, and perhaps a wooden stool. Stick to your neutral colour palette to maintain a cohesive look.
- Handcrafted Items: A beautiful ceramic soap dispenser or a handmade pottery vase can add a personal, wabi-sabi touch to your bathroom.
Create Your Bathroom Sanctuary
Creating a Japandi bathroom is about more than just following a trend, it’s about creating a space that helps you to relax, recharge, and find a moment of calm in your busy life. The environment that achieves that will be unique to you. But by focusing on natural materials, simple lines, and thoughtful details, you’ll have an excellent base for your beautiful and functional bathroom.
If you’re feeling inspired and would like to explore how Japandi design could work in your home, why not visit our showroom? Our expert designers would love to chat through your ideas and help you create the bathroom you’ve been dreaming of.