Elevating the Everyday with Japandi-Inspired Spaces
Picture this: You step into your bathroom, and instantly, the stresses of the day seem to melt away. The natural light flooding in casts a warm, soothing glow, while the earthy tones and textures around you create a serene, calming atmosphere. This isn’t your average utilitarian powder room – this is a true oasis, a sanctuary where you can escape the chaos of the outside world and reconnect with the beauty of nature.
I’m not talking about some unattainable designer dream home – this kind of bathroom bliss can be achieved right in your own humble abode. The secret? Embracing the Japandi design aesthetic, a harmonious fusion of Japanese minimalism and Scandinavian functionality.
A Tale of Two Bathrooms: Blending Cultures, Textures, and Light
Recently, I had the pleasure of exploring two stunning examples of Japandi-inspired bathroom design, thanks to the work of designer Brian Patrick Flynn. The HGTV Urban Oasis 2020 in Portland, Maine, was his canvas, and he used it to weave together the maritime culture of the city with the serene, nature-centric vibes of Japandi style.
In the home’s powder room, Flynn went all-in on the nautical theme, with playful illustrated sailboat wallpaper and a porthole-shaped mirror that gives a subtle nod to the fishing and seafaring lifestyle of Portland. But the real star of the show is the VELUX Solar Powered Fresh Air Skylight overhead, which floods the space with natural light and enhances the blue-and-white color scheme.
Upstairs, the main bathroom takes a more subdued approach to the maritime theme, using shades of blue and white to evoke the calming, serene essence of the ocean. But the real wow factor comes from the strategic placement of those VELUX Solar Powered Fresh Air Skylights – one over the vanity area for ample morning light, and another strategically positioned above the tub to allow for fresh air and ventilation.
Bringing the Outdoors In with Intentional Design
As Flynn so eloquently put it, this home was designed as a “celebration of the outdoor culture and natural beauty of Portland’s landscape.” And he didn’t hold back when it came to blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor living.
The use of natural light is paramount, with those VELUX skylights playing a starring role in both bathrooms. But it’s not just about practicality – these thoughtful design choices also contribute to the overall serene, nature-inspired ambiance. Imagine sinking into that clawfoot tub, surrounded by the calming blue hues, while the soft glow of natural light filters in from above. Talk about pure bliss.
And the connection to the outdoors isn’t limited to the bathrooms, either. Throughout the home, you’ll find intentional nods to the maritime culture and lush natural surroundings of Portland. From the Accoya wood cladding on the exterior to the bespoke landscaping that creates a true biophilic oasis, every design decision seems to be guided by a desire to blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor living.
Japandi: The Perfect Marriage of Form and Function
So, what is it about the Japandi design aesthetic that makes it such a perfect match for creating these serene, nature-inspired bathrooms? It all comes down to the perfect balance of form and function.
“Japandi design blends Japanese artistic elements with Scandinavian comfort and Hygge,” explains designer Shanty Wijaya, the mastermind behind the Japandi-inspired home featured on Style by Emily Henderson. “Both Japanese and Scandinavian design aesthetics are focused on simplicity, natural elements, comfort, and sustainability.”
This ethos is reflected in every aspect of the bathrooms we’ve explored today. The clean lines, the natural materials, the emphasis on bringing the outdoors in – it all comes together to create a harmonious, intentional space that’s as practical as it is beautiful.
And let’s not forget the sustainability factor. From the eco-friendly Accoya wood used in the exterior and landscaping to the energy-efficient VELUX skylights, these bathrooms are designed with the planet in mind. It’s a winning combination that not only elevates the everyday but also helps to preserve the natural world we’re aiming to bring into our homes.
Embracing the Imperfect Beauty of Japandi
But Japandi design isn’t just about sleek lines and eco-friendly materials – it’s also about embracing the beauty of imperfection. As Wijaya notes, “Wabi-Sabi,” the Japanese concept of finding beauty in the flawed and imperfect, is a key element of this design aesthetic.
And you can see that spirit of Wabi-Sabi throughout the bathrooms we’ve explored. The unique texture and patina of the reclaimed wood countertops, the playful mix of modern and vintage elements – it’s all about celebrating the inherent character and individuality of each material and design choice.
In a world that often values perfection above all else, Japandi-inspired design is a refreshing reminder that the most beautiful spaces are the ones that feel lived-in, loved, and authentic. It’s about finding joy in the imperfect, the unexpected, and the oh-so-human elements that make a house a true home.
Turning Your Bathroom into a Natural Oasis
So, how can you bring the serene, nature-inspired beauty of Japandi design into your own bathroom? The possibilities are endless, but here are a few key elements to consider:
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Embrace Natural Light: Those VELUX skylights were game-changers in the bathrooms we explored, and for good reason. Strategically placed skylights can flood your space with natural light, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere and blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor living.
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Incorporate Natural Materials: From wood and stone to rattan and jute, natural materials are the backbone of Japandi design. Look for vanities, fixtures, and accents that showcase the inherent beauty of these earthy elements.
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Blur the Boundaries: Just like in the HGTV Urban Oasis, think about ways to create a seamless connection between your bathroom and the great outdoors. Large windows, indoor-outdoor furnishings, and lush greenery can all help to bring the outside in.
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Celebrate Imperfection: Remember, Wabi-Sabi is all about finding the beauty in the flawed and the unexpected. Don’t be afraid to mix vintage and modern pieces, or to showcase the unique character of reclaimed materials.
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Keep it Simple: Japandi design is all about paring down to the essentials, so resist the urge to overcrowd your space. Stick to a cohesive color palette, prioritize functionality, and let the natural beauty of your materials shine.
With these Japandi-inspired design principles in mind, the possibilities for transforming your bathroom into a true bespoke oasis are truly endless. So why not take the plunge and get started on your own natural sanctuary? Your mind, body, and soul will thank you.
