A combination of Japanese and Scandinavian design characteristics, "Japandi" style is minimalist yet inviting, sleek yet warm and functional. New York-based designer Tara Kantor employs a similar look in her tranquil, organic-modern interiors.
"I don't like my designs to feel overdone, so I try to achieve a minimal yet layered aesthetic in my projects that aligns with Japandi style," she says. "I am drawn to the balance between minimal and warm achieved by adding elements from nature, textures in material selections, and a curated collection of handmade ceramics." Here, Kantor shares seven furnishings inspired by the trending-yet-timeless approach.
1. The TK Stool, Tara Kantor And Thomas Hayes
"I designed this stool with Thomas Hayes a few years ago. The chair is minimal, yet the bolster provides a soft accent that complements the otherwise straight lines of the design. It looks great both as a counter stool and a dining chair. I also love the design's versatility; the TK Stool is a chameleon and changes depending on the material selection. For my house, I used a shearling bolster and a bleached-walnut wood finish for a soft zen vibe." (seen here)
2. Alpaca And Jute Rug, Fayette Studio
"Fayette Studio is an excellent source for rugs with a modern organic feel. Their alpaca boucle rugs look and feel like slices of clouds. They also have a collection of felted wool rugs that are chunky and welcoming. Many of the rugs are customizable, so you can select the yarns and colors to make the designs work for the palette you are trying to achieve."
3. Kenmare Credenza, Wud Furniture And Melanie Morris
"This is an oversized credenza that makes a statement in simplicity. The beauty of the design is in the details and mixed materials that work harmoniously to create warmth and interest."
4. Lime Wash Paint In Soapstone, Portola Paints
"I have been using lime wash more and more in recent projects. The soft texture and movement of a light lime wash plaster give richness and depth to walls that help spaces feel bright, warm, and earthy."
5. Stella Vase, From Current Home
"Current Home is my go-to for accessories. Accessories help layer a space. The right accessories highlight a room by allowing the eye to rest on a particular element. This vase by Style Union Home was crafted with a glazing process that creates natural drippings and variations, making each piece unique."
6. Quince Bundle, From Emily By Emily
"I prefer fresh flowers when possible to infuse elements of nature in my spaces, but that is not always possible. And flowers don't last forever! This faux quince bundle by Emily Del Bello provides a floral accent that is natural and believable. Each petal is handmade from luxury silk and will last for years."
7. Welles Large Chandelier, Michelle Gerson And Gabrielle Scott
"This light fixture looks like petals floating in the sky. The soft, organic lines of the flowers perfectly complement the geometric shape of the alabaster glass elements."
Michelle Johnson
Michelle Johnson is a curious, creative person who’s passionate about telling the stories of curious, creative individuals and brands. She has more than a decade of experience crafting compelling editorial and marketing content primarily within the design and lifestyle niche, and she's written countless words about stunning homes, local artists, smart products, and celebrity stylemakers. Michelle lives in a 1920s bungalow in Denver, Colorado.
