Scandi and Japandi are two design styles beloved for their calm palettes, natural materials, and serene simplicity. If you’re new to these styles, you may want to explore our introductions to Scandi interiors and Japandi design first. At first glance, they appear similar — both are minimalist, warm, and rooted in intentional living. But look more closely, and the differences become clear.
Scandi is light, cozy, and comfort-forward.
Japandi is balanced, earthy, and deeply intentional.
Both offer pathways to a peaceful home, yet each carries its own character, philosophy, and aesthetic story.
In this guide, we’ll explore what makes Scandi and Japandi unique — and how to know which style speaks most to your home.
What Is Scandi Style?
Originating from the Nordic countries, Scandi style is defined by:
- bright, airy spaces
- pale or white walls
- warm wood tones
- clean, simple forms
- cozy textiles
- a strong sense of comfort
Scandi interiors often embody hygge — a feeling of warmth, connection, and everyday ease. The design approach embraces light, softness, and an effortless minimalism that still feels lived-in and inviting.
Scandi is minimalism with warmth.
It’s casual, cozy, and deeply welcoming.
What Is Japandi Style?
Japandi blends Japanese wabi-sabi philosophy with Scandinavian functionality. It is:
- minimalist and balanced
- grounded in natural materials
- earthy in tone
- intentional rather than decorative
- calm, refined, and mindful
Where Scandi seeks comfort, Japandi seeks harmony — a quiet equilibrium of form, texture, and purpose.
Wabi-sabi influences bring an appreciation for imperfection, authenticity, and nature’s gentle variations.
Japandi is minimalism with meaning.
It’s refined, grounded, and deeply serene.
Scandi vs. Japandi: Key Differences
1. Color Palette
Scandi:
Bright, light, and airy. Think white walls, pale greys, soft beige, and touches of warm wood.
The palette is designed to reflect natural light, especially during long Nordic winters.
Japandi:
Warm, earthy, and muted.
Clay, taupe, charcoal, off-white, terracotta, and natural neutrals dominate.
Difference:
Scandi is lighter and brighter.
Japandi is warmer and more grounded.
2. Mood and Atmosphere
Scandi:
Cozy, uplifting, relaxed.
It expresses warmth, comfort, and everyday ease.
Japandi:
Calm, balanced, meditative.
It feels intentional, refined, and quietly elegant.
Difference:
Scandi embraces coziness.
Japandi embraces stillness.
3. Materials and Texture
Scandi:
Light woods (ash, birch), wool, cotton, ceramics, woven textures.
Japandi:
Mid-tone or darker woods, stone, raw ceramics, linen, organic textures, traditional Japanese craftsmanship.
Difference:
Scandi materials are soft and warm.
Japandi materials are earthy and timeless.
4. Minimalism Style
Scandi:
Soft minimalism — uncluttered but comfortable.
Spaces feel lived-in, not rigid.
Japandi:
Intentional minimalism — purposeful, considered, balanced.
Every object is chosen mindfully.
Difference:
Scandi leaves room for coziness.
Japandi leaves room for breathing space.
5. Design Philosophy
Scandi:
Influenced by hygge — celebrating comfort, warmth, and togetherness.
Japandi:
Influenced by wabi-sabi — embracing natural imperfection, harmony, and slow living.
Difference:
Scandi is about comfort.
Japandi is about meaning.
🌿 Which Style Is Right for You?
Choose Scandi if you love:
✔ bright spaces
✔ cozy blankets and soft lighting
✔ airy palettes
✔ simple, friendly minimalism
✔ warm, inviting rooms
Choose Japandi if you prefer:
✔ earthy tones
✔ refined and balanced spaces
✔ organic textures
✔ intentional simplicity
✔ calm, meditative interiors
Many people find themselves drawn to both — and blend them effortlessly, creating homes that feel warm yet grounded, simple yet soulful.
How Wall Art Supports Each Style
Scandi Wall Art
Look for gentle, uplifting pieces:
- soft abstract forms
- botanical prints
- minimalist line drawings
- warm neutral tones
Explore our curated Scandi Art Prints to elevate your space.
Japandi Wall Art
Choose art that feels organic and balanced:
- earthy palettes
- texture-inspired abstracts
- natural landscapes
- imperfect, wabi-sabi shapes
Discover our Japandi Art Prints for pieces that bring calm and harmony.
Final Thoughts
Scandi and Japandi may share minimalist roots, but each offers its own vision of beauty and comfort. Scandi brings warmth and brightness. Japandi brings depth and quiet elegance. Both celebrate nature, simplicity, and creating homes that feel peaceful and intentional.
Whether you choose one or a thoughtful blend of both, these styles offer a timeless foundation for calm, meaningful living.