
Yes, Japandi Is Still In: Maximizing Kitchen Space Without Compromising Function
If you’re just now getting up to speed on this interior design style, you may be thinking, “What is Japandi Style?” Japandi style is an interior design style that blends the minimalist aesthetics of traditional Japanese design with the function-first approach of Scandinavian design. This style has been on the rise for the past few years, and it shows no signs of slowing down.
Scandinavian Interior Style
Scandinavian design is known for linear shapes, rounded corners, and muted color palettes. Rather than filling a space with decorative clutter, this style embraces simplicity and intentionality. The countries of Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, and Iceland all contributed to the Scandinavian design movement that prioritized craftsmanship through industrialized manufacturing. This modern trend has been a leading force for almost a century.
Japanese Interior Style
Japanese interior design is unique in its approach to balancing the “weight” of a room by prioritizing intentionality in design. This promotes a clutter-free space while also making room for the most functional and practical elements, such as books and vases. This style also emphasizes the use of natural materials and textures, such as wood, cotton, paper, and stone, creating a calming and harmonious environment.
Japandi Summarized
Together, these styles have brought forth neutral colors and tones, earth-friendly materials, and an “arts and crafts” type of space and décor.
See Also: The Charm of Scandinavian Style Kitchens
The Rise of Japandi Popularity
Because this trend has been on the rise, many wonder, “Is Japandi out of style?” The answer is a resounding no. A testament to its popularity is Laila Rietbergen’s book and magazine entirely dedicated to Japandi interiors.
As the years go by, many prefer their home to carry less waste and more function. Homeowners, interior designers, and DIYers have enjoyed clutter-free zones by implementing design philosophies that prioritize essentials and anti-maximalism. From their living rooms to their kitchens to their bedrooms, renovators everywhere applaud this style for its sophisticated look that prioritizes eco-friendly materials.
Related: Japanese-Inspired Small Tubs
Japandi Kitchen Ideas
Looking to bring Japandi into your kitchen? Here are a few core elements to help you achieve that calming, minimalist look:
1. Modern Faucets
Kitchen faucets that carry the sleek look of today that many homeowners prefer, with beautiful finishes like Brushed Nickel and Matte Black, will blend well in a Japandi-designed kitchen. Additionally, cutting-edge features like pull-down and single-handle configurations will easily add to the functionality of your space.
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![]() Concord LS8728DL Pull-Down Kitchen Faucet |
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Related: The Ultimate Guide to High-End Kitchen Faucet Materials
2. Earthy Materials
Using materials found in nature is a major tenet of Japandi style. Incorporating the beauty of wood and the sturdiness of stone, gives the Japandi home a sense of being grounded in your own space. To preserve the natural aesthetic of Japandi, avoid painted or lacquered finishes to preserve their raw, tactile appeal.
3. Sink Options
A sink made with high-quality materials, that aren't too showy or opulent, will make a fine addition to your Japandi kitchen. A sink that balances utility and subtlety is ideal. You can have your pick of many sink options to choose from, including, but not limited to:
Undermount Sinks
![]() Loft KGKUS30181 Undermount Kitchen Sink |
![]() Towne KGCKUS332298 Undermount Kitchen Sink |
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Apron Front/Farmhouse Sinks
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![]() Miranda GKKA30229 Farmhouse Sink |
![]() Arcticstone GKFA301810RM Farmhouse Sink |
Drop-in Sinks
![]() Petra Galley KGT33229D21 Drop-In Sink |
![]() Studio KGKTD332288 Drop-In Sink |
![]() Studio KGKTS33229011 Drop-In Sink |
Sink Combos
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![]() Kaolin/New York Sink Bundle |
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All of these options will look pleasant in your kitchen and won't detract from your serene Japandi design.
5. Open Shelving
Open shelving presents an opportunity to add modernity to your kitchen while maintaining cleanliness. A stark contrast to traditional cabinetry, open shelving keeps items like plates and décor on display for all to see. This often encourages homeowners to promptly remove anything that doesn’t belong or add necessary objects to the shelves.
6. Pot Fillers
True to Japandi’s value of functional design, a pot filler is both practical and stylish. As previously mentioned, function is an essential part of Japandi style. Over the year, the pot filler has become an essential fixture in many kitchens because of the convenience and ease it provides. Pots can be filled right over the stove, without the hassle of heavy lifting throughout the kitchen.
![]() Concord KS8108DL Pot Filler Faucet |
![]() Manhattan KS4700CML Pot Filler Faucet |
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Whether you're completely revamping your kitchen or making a few renovation touches, KINGSTON carries fixtures to suit your interior taste. Browse kitchen faucets, pot fillers, sinks, and much more today.