I´ve always designed spaces that resist the change in fashion. Having built already 3 houses for my family they all share similar spirit. Blending in – building around what´s already there. Natural materials instead of rich colours. Using daylight, open views and creating the feel of warmth. And preserving patina to wrap up sptories.
Instead of creating the cozyness with trinklets, tchotchkes, knicknkacks, keepsakes I like my spaces clean. Warmth is brought in by natural textures, warm light, real materials, even patina. Composed views outside the wide glass surfaces add to the experience and allow the interior to appear more spacious.
Furniture is functional. Although almost every piece has it´s own story, none of the items are just for show. Second hand doesn´t mean cheap compromises and new designer items can be IKEA. Furniture completes the atmosphere.
Subconscious choice?
Japandi, as the name suggests, is a mix of Japanese and Scandinavian styles. It is influenced by the ancient Japanese philosophy of wabi-sabi, a way of life which values slow-living, contentment and simplicity, as well as the Scandinavian practice of hygge (pronounced hue-gah) refers to a sense of cozy togetherness or feeling content with the present moment.
Wabi-sabi focuses on gratitude for what we already have, rather than always yearning for something new.
Wabi-sabi is all about decluttering and stripping back the unnecessary to allow yourself to live well. The take on minimalist lifestyle by getting rid of superfluous clutter by ridding yourself of pointless items. Hygge also means finding joy in the simple things in life—enjoying a cup of tea in the afternoon, reading a book by a roaring fire, or spending time with close friends.
I remember the moment I recognized having created my home according to Japandi principles having never heard of it before. So it´s natural, not learned and imitated, but where does it come from and what is it? It can be japandi, but it´s definitely more.
Becoming aware who you are
Instead of looking towards the far Japan or neighbouring scandinavian countries we have our own rich culture, materially and spiritually vibrant, tightly connected to the nature already for yearthousands. The knowledge is in our DNA. Trough intuition, the knowledge can be accessed and made use for our best good.
A simple explanation for a creative process. And visiting the place, the same emotions, feelings are addressed. Something recognizable and familiar. A place to call home.
Conclusion
There is a famous quote by Winston Churchill “We shape our buildings and afterward our buildings shape us.” I just leave it here as a clischee.
