Welcome to this month's interior insights. Today, I aim to present a fresh perspective on lifestyle and interior design. In a time of societal unrest, many seek solace in tranquil retreats. For those longing for a more straightforward existence, embracing wholesome cuisine, mindfulness practices in nature, and cherishing life's simple joys, creating a serene and peaceful interior becomes essential to complement this newfound lifestyle.
Enter Japandi – a fusion of Scandinavian living and Japanese design principles.
Japandi style is a wonderful blend of Japanese and Scandinavian design which invites both serenity and a deep sense of comfort into your living space. This design is a much more than a latest trend or a style as its draws from the minimalist roots of Japanese aesthetics and the cosy, welcoming vibe of Scandinavian interiors. Emerging in recent years, Japandi embraces the concept of "less is more," combining both functionality and simplicity to create a warm, hygge-inspired environment.
At the heart of Japandi style is the Wabi Sabi philosophy, an ancient Japanese aesthetic concept that finds beauty in simplicity and imperfection. This approach harmonises effortlessly with the Scandinavian ethos of Hygge, with emphasis on creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Together, these philosophies encourage a sense of calm and well-being in your home.
EMBRACE THE ESSENSE OF WABI SABI.
To create the Japandi look a natural colour palette is required with a variety of textures, creating a space that is both calming and inviting. With emphasis on clean lines and a muted color scheme of whites, greys, and earthy tones, seamlessly merging form and function. These calming shades paired with the natural materials, such as wood and stone, foster a sense of understated elegance. Each piece serves a purpose, contributing to the room’s serene yet sophisticated aesthetic. Embrace this fusion of cultures to transform your home into a sanctuary of minimalist beauty and tranquil comfort.
To truly capture the essence of Japandi, consider incorporating elements such as low-profile furniture, which promotes a sense of openness and flow within the space. Opt for pieces made from natural materials like bamboo, oak, or rattan, which not only add texture but also echo the organic beauty found in nature. Complement these with soft textiles like linen, cotton, or wool to introduce layers of warmth and coziness.
Lighting plays a pivotal role in Japandi interiors. Soft, diffused lighting can enhance the serene atmosphere, so choose fixtures that cast a gentle glow. Paper lanterns, minimalist pendant lights, and simple floor lamps with clean lines are excellent choices. Natural light should also be maximized; use sheer curtains to allow sunlight to filter through, creating an airy and bright environment.
Accessories should be kept to a minimum, but those chosen should add character and reflect personal taste. Handmade ceramics, simple vases with single stems of foliage, and artisanal objects that tell a story can enrich the space without overwhelming it. Remember, each item should have a purpose and be meaningful, reinforcing the idea of mindful living.
In the spirit of Wabi Sabi, embrace the beauty of imperfection. A weathered wooden table, a slightly misshapen pottery piece, or a handwoven textile with subtle irregularities can add charm and authenticity to your Japandi-inspired home. These elements celebrate the passage of time and the craftsmanship behind each piece.
Ultimately, the Japandi style is about creating a haven of peace and simplicity, where every element works in harmony to support a balanced and mindful lifestyle. By blending the best of Japanese and Scandinavian design, you can craft a living space that not only looks beautiful but also feels like a true sanctuary.
Minimal, clean lines, pale woods and neutral palette.
WELCOME TO MY DIARY.
I can't believe it's almost June 2024 and we're already halfway through the year. Unfortunately, my year has been challenging due to some health issues, causing a delay in starting my new classes. I hope to resolve this soon. I'm eagerly looking forward to planning my new classes, so I apologize if you're waiting for me to share the dates.
One of the highlights in the design calendar and one not to be missed is WOW!house, the award-winning showhouse presented by Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour.from 4th of June to the 4th of July, a mecca of top designers and lighting suppliers that are definitely worth taking the trip to visit, especially if you have a current project or if your passionate about interiors this is Perfect to get your creative juices flowing and find the inspiration for your design project. There are 19 rooms and outdoor spaces to indulge yourself and have a nose around other people spaces and we all love to do that. inspire created by world class interior designers
To book your tickets follw this link https://www.dcch.co.uk/wowhouse
If you saw my Facebook post of late you will see that I have been contemplating my garden fence colour. I looked at regular and modern shades and even joked about painting it pink! I really began thinking about the colour I want reflecting back at me while doing the dishes.. Have you ever really thought about colour - if you were a colour which one would you be - I mean, if you had to choose? Primrose yellow, Ocean blue, Vermilion reds, Shocking pink or Egyptian blue. Colour is fundament to our experience of this world around us and we all have our favourites, globally blue is the most popular colour choice we all love a sea view from our holiday balcony. But colours are more than just visual experiences; they are deeply intertwined with our emotions and memories. Imagine the soothing tranquility of a soft lavender field at dusk or the vibrant energy that a bright orange sunset injects into your spirit. Each hue carries its own unique story and meaning.
For instance, primrose yellow might remind you of a warm spring morning, full of promise and new beginnings. Ocean blue could evoke memories of peaceful days spent by the water, a sense of calm and infinity. Vermilion reds might stir up feelings of passion and excitement, while shocking pink could represent boldness and a zest for life. Egyptian blue, with its historical richness, may transport you to ancient times, filled with mystery and wonder.
When we choose a colour that resonates with us, we are often choosing a reflection of our inner selves or the mood we wish to embrace. So, next time you find yourself drawn to a particular shade, take a moment to ponder what it might be revealing about your current state of mind or the dreams you hold dear. After all, in a world filled with countless hues, the colours we cherish can illuminate the stories of our hearts.
Colour has the power to evoke emotions, set the mood, and even influence behavior. Warm colors like red, orange, and yellow can create a cozy and inviting atmosphere, perfect for living rooms or dining areas. On the other hand, cool tones such as blue, green, and purple can promote relaxation and tranquility, making them ideal for bedrooms or home offices.
In addition to setting the mood, colors can also visually alter the perception of a room. Lighter colors can make a space feel more open and airy, while darker shades can add depth and coziness. By strategically incorporating different colors, you can play with proportions and create visual interest in your interior design.
Furthermore, colour can be used to highlight architectural features, create focal points, or even define different areas within a room. Whether it's through a statement wall, colorful furniture pieces, or decorative accents, the right color choices can elevate the design and add personality to your space.
Overall, embracing colour in your interior design can bring a sense of vibrancy, harmony, and individuality to your home. So don't be afraid to experiment with different colour palettes and combinations – you might just discover the transformative power that colour can bring to your living space.
MARCH - going back to basics . APRIL - inspiration. MAY- Mood boarding. you will find the other months in the margin at the bottom of this page.
On the last Sunday at @andreajinteriors, I challenged you to gather 5 images that spark joy, ones that resonate with you, and splash them across your phone wallpaper or fridge door. Crafting dreams and assembling a mood board sets the stage for how you envision your life - and helps pave the path to get there.
Creating a mood board is like having a roadmap to the new habits you crave. Whether it's wellness goals, more chill time, a side hustle, or meaningful connections - each milestone brings us closer to our dream life.
Building on that idea, we're kicking it up a notch - but hold up, what does this have to do with interior design, you ask? Well, this week we're diving deeper.
Our surroundings affect us far more than we realise. Just peek at those hoarders - their clutter chaos takes a toll on their well-being, both body and mind.
Now, I'm not suggesting we all become neat freaks, Oh no, but a clean, organised space filled with things that spark joy can set the perfect mood for living your best life!
Select one of your cherished images and dissect what lights you up about it:
Not quite sure what pulls you in?
Well, let me take a wild guess - that specific image speaks to your soul, sparks those good vibes, and voilà, it all ties into your interior design dreams! Because the ultimate interiors are all about nailing that perfect mood we crave.
What feeling and emotions are your images saying to you.
Fill in the three blanks
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To create a cohesive design for your new space, consider associating your specific emotions above with your new project. This approach provides you with a clear roadmap for your design direction, especially amidst the vast array of choices available during the shopping process, this will help you keep your design on track and stay focused.
Begin by collecting samples that resonate with the emotions you've identified for your project.
Compile a selection of paint colors, wallpapers, carpets, fixtures, fittings, and images of furniture that inspire you.
Whether you prefer a physical or digital mood board, organizing these elements early on can prevent impulsive spending. Once you've curated a collection that satisfies your vision, prioritise collecting significant samples such as key furniture pieces that will anchor your design concept.
Take your time.
Progress steadily, adding elements one by one. Flooring, being a substantial component of the design, might be a logical next step as you build your scheme.
After finalising your furnishings, look for paint samples that harmonise with your chosen color palette. Remember to test out these samples under the room's lighting conditions to ensure a perfect match.
If you encounter difficulty in selecting suitable colors, you can access a free paint guide from the homepage of my website for guidance.
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