The Top Design Mistakes Ruining Japandi Style in New Zealand Homes
Japandi style — the serene blend of Japanese minimalism and Scandinavian coziness — is a dream for many homeowners. It’s calm, functional, and effortlessly stylish.
But here’s the catch: many users try Japandi and end up with a space that feels cold, cluttered, or just not quite right. Why does this happen? Let’s look at the most common mistakes and, more importantly, how to fix them so your home feels as tranquil and beautiful as a true Japandi space.
1. Skimping on Storage
The mistake: Embracing “minimalism” without planning proper, well-organised storage, leaving clutter to pile up on every surface.
The fix: Japandi thrives on hidden storage. Invest in smart solutions like custom cabinetry, wall-hung units, and under-bed drawers. Even clever IKEA storage pieces can make a big difference. A clutter-free home instantly feels calmer and more intentional.
2. Choosing the Wrong White
The mistake: Painting your entire home in a cool, stark white. Under New Zealand’s bright sunlight, this can feel harsh and clinical — especially in Auckland’s sun-filled homes.
The fix: Choose warm whites or muted earthy tones instead. Colours like Dulux Cardrona will keep your space bright but add softness.
3. Mixing Too Many Styles
The mistake: Trying to blend Japandi with every other trend — Hamptons lighting, boho macramé, farmhouse décor, until the space feels confused and chaotic.
The fix: Stick to Japandi’s core principles: clean-lined furniture, natural materials, and a muted palette. If you mix in other styles, do it intentionally and sparingly so they complement, not compete, with Japandi’s simplicity.
4. Overlooking Proportion and Layout
The mistake: Filling your home with oversized sofas, dining tables, or storage units that overwhelm the room, a common issue in smaller Kiwi homes.
The fix: Select low-profile, slim-legged furniture to keep spaces feeling open and airy. Consider layout optimization, even small adjustments like moving furniture or shifting traffic flow can dramatically improve the sense of space.
5. Ignoring the Outdoors
The mistake: Focusing entirely on interiors and forgetting to connect your home to nature.
The fix: Japandi celebrates harmony with the natural world. Incorporate indoor plants, use natural materials like timber and stone, and frame your garden or outdoor views with large windows or sliders. This is one of the easiest (and most Kiwi!) ways to make your Japandi interior feel complete.
Japandi might look effortless, but it takes careful planning to get right. By avoiding these common mistakes and paying attention to storage, colour choices, furniture proportion, and your connection to nature. You can create a home that feels calm, balanced, and uniquely yours.