Welcome to the first part of our new series exploring Japandi Minimalism—a harmonious blend of Japanese and Scandinavian design that brings beauty, simplicity, and serenity into our everyday spaces. Today, we're thrilled to share an intimate look at a bedroom designed for a lovely couple who have welcomed us at GDVD to be part of their journey, not once, but twice. For their second home, they chose the warmth and calm of Japandi Minimalism to inspire a bedroom that feels grounded, intentional, and deeply personal.

What is Japandi Style?

Japandi Minimalism marries the Japanese philosophy of "wabi-sabi"—finding beauty in imperfection—with Scandinavian "hygge," the art of cozy, inviting spaces. This blend creates an aesthetic that is both functional and soulful, rooted in the use of natural materials and a sense of purpose in every element. According to Google, Japandi started capturing global interest in 2020—a time when the world’s focus turned inward toward home life, nature, and the need for simplicity.

As designer Phil King notes, "Its earthy, functional energy has renewed relevance at a time when technology surrounds and often overwhelms us." Japandi’s appeal lies in its calming presence and intentional design, a counterbalance to our digitally demanding lifestyles. Brigette Romanek echoes this sentiment, saying, "The principles behind Japandi represent a sense of calmness and ease, which all of us can relate to and need in our lives.” Japandi Minimalism, therefore, offers a sanctuary-like atmosphere that encourages peace, contemplation, and connection.

Origins of Japandi Style

The fusion of Japanese and Scandinavian design principles may seem unexpected, yet these styles share core values rooted in simplicity and the natural world. Japanese minimalism emphasizes empty space and a deep respect for materials, while Scandinavian design prioritizes function, light, and coziness. Both styles use neutral color palettes and organic textures to create environments that are unfussy, comforting, and restful. Japandi is a fresh expression of these principles, incorporating sustainable materials and practical design in ways that meet the demands of modern living.

Crafting the Japandi Bedroom: Essentials Only

In this Japandi-inspired bedroom, we focused on creating a space that embodies "less is more." We emphasized decluttering and simplifying—keeping only what’s meaningful to the couple. Each piece, from the bed frame to the lighting, was carefully considered to ensure it served a purpose while enhancing the room’s overall harmony.

To begin, we collaborated closely with the couple, guiding them to handpick only those items they truly needed and loved. This approach allowed them to curate a personal retreat that feels uniquely theirs. The chosen decor includes neutral-toned bedding, a few well-chosen natural accessories, and subtle textures that add character without overwhelming the room. Soft, warm neutrals like taupe, clay, and stone were selected as the primary colors to keep the space grounded and calming.

By removing visual clutter, we created room for tranquility. This open, airy space feels welcoming and allows natural light to flow freely, amplifying the soothing, spacious atmosphere. Clean lines and unfussy designs bring out Japandi’s inherent elegance, allowing the simplicity of the materials to speak for themselves.

Limewash Beauty: A Dreamy, Earthy Canvas

A standout feature of this bedroom is the limewash, applied across the walls, doors, and ceiling to create a cohesive, earthy look. Limewash paint, with its rich texture and chalky finish, adds a unique depth and warmth to the space, reflecting Japandi’s respect for natural materials. The subtle imperfections in the paint application give the room a rustic, lived-in quality that feels grounded and authentic.

In addition to its aesthetic appeal, limewash is also a sustainable choice, as it’s free of harsh chemicals and naturally breathable. This paint technique enhances the room’s airy feel and complements the minimalistic furniture, bringing a sense of the outdoors inside. The result is a room that feels both modern and timeless—perfectly aligned with Japandi’s philosophy of creating spaces that are soothing, natural, and intentional.

I’ve put together a PDF you can download and use for your guidance to better understand the ins and outs of limewash along with two other textured wall designs. Feel free to download it by filling out the form at the end of this blog!