There’s a New Name for That Minimalist Furniture You’re Seeing Everywhere

Move over, cottagecore, there’s a new design trend in town. Actually it’s two styles combined into one hybrid aesthetic: Japandi. According to Pinterest’s 2021 trend predictions report, the Japandi look, defined by calming colors and clean lines, is on the rise, with searches for neutral color palettes, earth tones, wood furniture, and minimalist design increasing by almost five times last year’s numbers. 

Lately we’ve been seeing the trend in action, too, like in this Los Angeles home and Maine getaway. To bring the look home, we’ve made a shopping list of our favorite pieces that give off the cool, calm vibe. 

Light Me Up

Akari UF4-33N Light Sculpture, Noguchi Shop ($1,300)

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Perhaps the most iconic (and recognizable) Japanese design piece, a Noguchi lamp can be found in every It girl’s space (Alyssa Coscarelli, for example). Pair with a warm bulb to blanket your room, and suddenly you’re doused in a cozy glow as good for your serotonin level as it is for setting the mood. 

Standing Room

Tabitha Nightstand, Urban Outfitters ($129)

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Light wood is a staple of Japanese design (think: bamboo), so this oak nightstand will blend right in to your newfound aesthetic. Pair it with a sweet-smelling candle (we love this floral one from Diptyque) and a mushroom lamp for ultimate calming vibes. 

Super-Storage

Haderittan Storage Baskets, Ikea ($10)

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Reigning Swedish retailer IKEA always brings the hygge, even to organizing. These woven rattan baskets can house little ones’ Lego collections, extra hats and scarves, or cleaning supplies. 

Between the Sheets

Gingham Sheet Set, Serena & Lily ($258)

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This bedding’s indigo hue calls on the traditional Japanese art of shibori, the act of folding fabric into patterns before dyeing, while the clean and simple grid design is just the Scandi touch your bed needs. With a fluffy white duvet cover on top, you just might start taking all your Zoom calls from bed. 

Drink Up

Ceramic French Press, YIELD ($120)

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Your morning caffeine routine just got a whole lot chicer: Not only is this cracked-appearing vessel the perfect example of wabi-sabi design (find beauty in the imperfections!), but its ceramic body maintains a consistent temperature while brewing, making it the perfect early-morning sidekick. 

Shelf Life

Sprout Bookcase, Crate&kids ($650)

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Japandi style is not about clutter. Opt for a 16-cubby bookcase to show off magazines, tchotchkes, or even leftover wine bottles–turned–vases for a display that rivals the typical gallery wall. 

Mug Shot

Plaid Drip Mug, Clam Lab ($58)

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POV: You’re in front of your fireplace on a blustery winter day and craving a matcha latte to warm up. What better way to enjoy your beverage of choice than in a handcrafted mug that’s somehow both a neutral staple and a statement piece all at once. Better yet, leave it on the counter when you’re done and it doubles as decor. 

Sitting Pretty

Palo Modular 2-Seater Sofa, Hem ($2,649)

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To truly create a zen den, you need a living room centerpiece that plays the part. This modular sofa grows with you (you can readjust the cushions and armrests with ease to extend its seating area) and fits the traditional Japanese look by sitting low to the ground. 

Bright Side

The Sidekick, Russet ($75)

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If you ever wondered what the furniture version of origami resembled, look no further. Made from five easily assembled wood pieces, this side perch can flaunt stacked coffee-table books, support accent lighting, or temporarily hold your coffee cup while you kick back and relax. 

Reading Buddy

Herman Magazine Stand, Ferm Living ($105)

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Thanks to its canvas-clad body, this vintage-looking magazine rack sports an added level of durability to protect your precious pages from spills or stains. Still deciding between subscriptions? No problem. It looks good on its own, too. 

On Display

Michael Pedestal, Josh Greene Design ($1,835)

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This versatile pedestal’s bleached wood is visually all Scandi, but balance an urn on top and voilà! The perfectly imperfect Japanese accent piece you’ve been searching for. Best of both worlds. 

Hot, Hot, Hot!

Plissé Electric Kettle, Alessi ($99)

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We’re getting serious Issey Miyake vibes from the pleats on this electric kettle. Make hot water for your favorite green tea, or just leave it out as an eye-catching decor piece that’s sure to rack up the compliments. 

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