Embracing Japandi Kitchens: The Artful Blend of Calm & Cosiness

The Japandi kitchen marries the serene minimalism of Japanese aesthetics with the warm, inviting essence of Scandinavian design. This fusion creates a cooking space that feels calm yet characterful - deeply functional, yet emotionally grounding. Unlike stark, sterile minimalist styles, Japandi embraces natural textures, muted tones, and a sense of quiet beauty. It’s minimalism with warmth, purpose, and presence.

What is a Japandi Kitchen?

Rooted in shared values of simplicity, craftsmanship, and harmony with nature, the Japandi style emerged around a decade ago but draws on design philosophies dating back to the 19th century. It combines…

Zen-inspired minimalism - uncluttered, thoughtful spaces.

Scandi warmth - natural light, soft neutrals, and cosy textures.

Natural materials - wood, stone, ceramic - used in their authentic, unpolished states

Why Designers (and Homeowners) Love the Japandi Style

Timelessness - Neutral palettes and quality materials mean your kitchen won't date.

Calm energy - Harmonious tones and clean lines promote a peaceful vibe .

Smart design - Concealed storage keeps surfaces clutter-free without compromising function.

7 Steps to Create Your Dream Japandi Kitchen

1. Start with Serene Surfaces

Opt for handle-free cabinetry and full-height units. Hidden storage is essential - think built-in pantries, pull out drawers, integrated appliances, and inset sinks.

2. Craft a Soft Neutral Canvas

Choose palettes rooted in off-white, stone, sand, or taupe. Muted blues or pastel pinks nod to Scandi styles deeper charcoal or indigo accents to echo Japanese elegance. Don’t overdo it and make sure everything sits harmoniously together.

3. Invite Nature In

Layer in natural materials like oak, ash, walnut, marble, or concrete. Scandinavian kitchens typically lean toward paler woods such as oak or ash, whilst Japanese design often favours darker timbers like walnut or iroko.

The beauty of Japandi style lies in its flexibility - you can choose one approach or subtly blend elements of both. That said, restraint is key. Avoid over-mixing too many tones or textures, as this can disrupt the calm, balanced feel that defines the look.

4. Highlight Quality Craftsmanship

Japandi design places a premium on craftsmanship - pieces that feel considered, timeless, and quietly beautiful. Solid wood joinery, handmade ceramics, and tactile finishes bring depth and personality to the kitchen.

Our signature Stick Frame cabinetry is a natural fit for this look. The slender timber frames offer just the right amount of detail - subtle and architectural without overwhelming the space. With clean lines and exposed wood grain, the design speaks to both Scandinavian honesty and Japanese refinement.

5. Light Matters - Layer It

Start by maximising natural light wherever possible. Keep curtains or blinds minimal or sheer to let in soft daylight, and consider how surfaces (like glass, stone worktops and pale walls) can reflect and amplify it.

Layer in ambient lighting thoughtfully. Don’t default to the typical three pendants over the island - Japandi lighting is about subtlety, not spectacle. Aim for a soft, balanced glow that evolves throughout the day, complementing natural light rather than competing with it. Skip oversized statement fixtures in favour of refined forms with quiet presence. Choose designs with clean lines and natural materials, and let the shape, proportion, and texture do the talking.

6. Keep It Clutter-Free

In Japandi kitchens, simplicity isn't just a visual choice - it’s a philosophical one. Embrace the Zen mindset by removing unnecessary items and leaving intentional space between objects. In Japanese design, this is known as “ma” - the concept of negative space as a presence, not a void. Incorporating ma means being selective with what stays visible, and ensuring everything has its place and purpose.

7. Get Some Help

Japandi kitchens may look effortlessly simple, but achieving that balance of form, function, and flow takes careful planning. That’s where working with a designer - like us - makes all the difference.

We’ll help you determine the most cohesive layout for your space, considering everything from natural light and movement to material combinations and visual balance. Every kitchen we design is completely bespoke, meaning nothing is off the shelf or forced to fit. Instead, we tailor every detail all within our simple fixed price.

Discover more kitchen styles and learn about what makes our cupboards special - Our Kitchens