Japandi has emerged as one of the most desirable design aesthetics in modern homebuilding for its clean lines and natural materials.
From light-filled living spaces to earthy, tactile materials that support a sense of wellbeing, Japandi aligns beautifully with how many Australians want to live now – a slower and more thoughtful pace.
Organic textures and shapes combine with natural finishes in the design trend known as Japandi. Image: Getty
What is Japandi?
Characterised by its focus on craftsmanship, functionality and balance, Japandi blends the minimalist elegance of Japanese interiors with the soft, cosy touches of Scandi design. This is achieved with organic textures, neutral colour palettes and handcrafted fixtures and finishes.
According to Alex Farmer, sales and marketing manager at Beachstone Homes, the rise of Japandi reflects more than just a passing aesthetic, but a desire to slow down and create a cosy sanctuary.
“We’re seeing less interest in colder, industrial looks, and more toward warmth – in materials, lighting, and overall atmosphere. Japandi captures that beautifully. It’s a trend that I think will be around for the next decade.”
Mr Farmer also highlighted the style’s adaptability, which is something that’s resonating across a broad range of homebuyers.
“You can go light and minimal or dark and dramatic. We’ve had clients wanting all-black exteriors with timber cladding, and others leaning into whitewashed palettes with natural textures. It’s flexible, but always rooted in calm and connection,” he said.
Light and dark colour palettes are both at home in Japandi, as seen in this design from New Gen Homes. Image: realestate.com.au
Mr Farmer, whose custom-building company operates across Melbourne and the Mornington Peninsula, says interest in the aesthetic is growing fast – even if clients don’t always know what to call it.
“Sometimes the word ‘Japandi’ isn’t mentioned at all, but the feel is there and it pops up in inspiration boards. We’re definitely getting more and more people leaning into that look,” he said.
Japand-aussie?
While Japandi design is clearly on the rise, Mr Farmer believes it’s still in its early stages in Australia and is evolving with a distinct local flair.
“I think we’re still figuring out what Japandi means in an Australian context. Clients are drawn to the timber, the stone, and connection to outdoors which are all core elements of the design. I’m excited to see how we adapt and develop our own version of the style,” he said.
Due to its emerging popularity, several Australian volume builders have begun offering customisable designs that emulate this style. They also show how it's being adapted to the Australian climate and lifestyle.
The Cranbourne home by McDonald Jones Homes is a perfect example. The Japandi design in these two-storey townhomes shows off soft timber tones, sandy beige walls, and natural finishes evoking the earthy tranquillity of a Japanese retreat. Off the main living area, large sliding doors open up to create a quintessentially Australian indoor-outdoor living space.
The Australian take on Japandi sees architectural modifications suited to the climate and lifestyle. Image: McDonald Jones Homes
The interiors feature clean architectural lines softened by textured rugs, upholstered low-profile furniture, and linen drapes that filter in natural light.
The layout also supports the Japandi philosophy of living with less, while allowing for the airflow and natural light that is needed in Australian homes. Open spaces flow into one another with minimal visual noise, providing zones that encourage quiet moments, from the tranquil master suite to the light-filled living area.
A family-friendly aesthetic
New Gen Homes’ Kiyo design is another compelling embodiment of Japandi style and is one that speaks directly to Aussie families seeking both functionality and serenity.
The home champions uncluttered design, neutral tones, and thoughtful detailing. The interiors are bright and airy, utilising pale wood cabinetry and sleek built-in joinery to provide ample storage, while the muted colour palette leans into grey, ivory, and oat, grounded by darker accents in lighting and furniture that echo the balance often found in Japanese design.
Natural materials include timber-look flooring, smooth stone benchtops, and linen textures to emphasise the home’s serenity.
New Gen Homes' Kiyo design uses Japandi design principles to create a family-friendly layout. Image: realestate.com.au
The layout also caters to Australian family life, with generous living areas that give each resident ample space to retreat to along with a large kitchen and island where family and friends can come together at the end of the day.
Designing your own Japandi space
For those looking to infuse their own homes with Japandi appeal, there are simple yet effective ways to successful recreate the look.
Here are some basic rules to follow:
- Keep it simple: Avoid visual clutter. Choose furniture and decor with clean lines and purposeful form.
- Go natural: Incorporate wood, linen, wool, ceramics, and stone in soft, neutral hues.
- Prioritise function: Every object should serve a purpose – think minimalism.
- Embrace craftsmanship: Choose quality over quantity with handmade pottery, artisanal lighting, and bespoke joinery.
- Connect with nature: Use greenery, natural light, and organic textures to ground the space.
Are you interested in designing your dream home? Check out our dedicated New Homes section.
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