When it comes to modern kitchen design in 2025, minimalism is having a major moment—but not just any minimalism. Say hello to Japandi, the design trend that’s redefining what it means to live with intention, warmth, and natural beauty.
A Japandi style kitchen blends the clean lines and function-first thinking of Scandinavian design with the peaceful simplicity and organic materials of Japanese aesthetics. The result? A calming, clutter-free space that’s as beautiful as it is livable. Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to update your cabinetry and finishes, Bertch has everything you need to bring this sophisticated style into your home.
Today, we’ll break down what Japandi really means, how you can incorporate it in your kitchen, and why this trend is the perfect match for timeless, high-quality cabinetry like ours.
What Is a Japandi Style Kitchen?
A Japandi kitchen is a harmonious blend of Japanese minimalism and Scandinavian functionality. It embraces the “less is more” philosophy with a focus on balance, craftsmanship, and natural materials.
Where Japanese design values clean, intentional living with deep roots in tradition and nature, Scandinavian design emphasizes cozy simplicity, light tones, and practical elegance. In a Japandi kitchen, you’ll see smooth wood finishes, hidden storage, soft textures, and an earthy palette that transforms your cooking space into a calming haven.
Looking for inspiration? Explore our value semi-custom Marketplace collection, our premium Kitchen+ collection, and our premium frameless Elan collectionfor clean lines and natural wood finishes perfect for Japandi designs.
Key Characteristics of Japandi Kitchen Design
If you’re wondering “What makes a kitchen Japandi?”, look for these defining features:
- Neutral Color Palettes: Think soft whites, muted greys, beiges, and natural wood tones.
- Natural Materials: Wood, stone, bamboo, and linen are key.
- Streamlined Cabinetry: Slab or minimalist shaker cabinets are staples.
- Open Layouts: Spacious, uncluttered, and easy to navigate.
- Functional Aesthetics: Every piece should serve a purpose, and look good doing it.
- Warm Minimalism: Less décor, more intention. Add warmth with textures, not clutter.
Materials: Grounding the Space with Natural Elements
Materials play a crucial role in achieving a Japandi kitchen design that feels both modern and serene.
Here are a few favorites that strike the right balance:
- Wood Finishes: Light oak, walnut, or ash for cabinetry—preferably with visible grain.
- Matte Black or Brushed Brass Hardware: Understated but elegant.
- Stone or Quartz Countertops: Natural finishes over high-gloss.
- Textured Backsplashes: Tumbled tile or handmade ceramics for a touch of imperfection.
- Open Shelving in Wood or Steel: Adds airiness and function.
Color Palettes: Calm, Quiet, and Connected to Nature
Color is one of the most subtle, but most impactful ways to create a Japandi feel.
The Best Japandi Color Combos:
- Light Wood + White + Sage Green
- Charcoal Grey + Taupe + Light Wood
- Matte Black Accents + Driftwood Stain + Cashmere
While traditional Japanese interiors may lean darker, the Scandinavian influence introduces more light and softness. This blend creates a soothing visual that enhances focus and calmness.
Design Tips: How to Incorporate Japandi into Your Kitchen
Ready to bring this style into your space?
Whether you’re remodeling or just updating details, here’s how to get started:
1. Choose Minimalist Cabinetry
Opt for sleek, handleless designs or a modern take on shaker doors. Flat-front cabinets in a light wood or neutral tone are a Japandi staple. Our Slab style cabinet door collection hits the mark perfectly.
2. Focus on Open & Airy Layouts
Japandi is all about breathing room. Avoid overcrowded countertops by integrating smart storage solutions. Drawers over cabinets, hidden organizers, and pull-outs keep everything tidy.
3. Mix Textures, Not Colors
Layering similar shades in different materials like wood, linen, and matte metal adds depth without disrupting the calm.
4. Incorporate Nature-Inspired Details
A potted bonsai, handmade ceramic bowls, or even a linen curtain can tie the look together. Aim for curated, not cluttered.
5. Add Subtle Contrast
Use black accents (in lighting or fixtures) for grounding, but keep the palette balanced and light.
Why Japandi Is a Perfect Fit for Bertch
At Bertch, our cabinet makers and dealers believe in blending time-honored craftsmanship with contemporary design, and that’s exactly what Japandi kitchens are all about.
Our cabinetry is designed for longevity, quality, and beauty. And because our collections are fully customizable, you can achieve a Japandi-inspired kitchen without sacrificing your personal touch.
Internal Styling Inspiration: Beyond the Kitchen
Japandi doesn’t have to stop at the kitchen. Consider trying the aesthetic through:
- Butler’s Pantries: Streamlined, beautiful storage. Our Stylish Butler’s Pantry guide shows how to do it right.
- Laundry Rooms: Create calm, functional utility spaces.
- Bathrooms: Simple, spa-like designs with clean wood vanities.
Japandi Kitchen Design FAQs
What are the key characteristics of a Japandi kitchen?
Japandi kitchens are defined by minimalism, neutral tones, natural materials, functional design, and soft contrast. Look for clean lines, hidden storage, and a calm, uncluttered aesthetic.
What materials are commonly used in Japandi kitchens?
Common Japandi materials include:
- Light and mid-toned woods
- Natural stone or quartz
- Matte metal hardware
- Handmade ceramics
- Linen or woven accents
How can I incorporate Japandi elements into my kitchen?
Start with minimalist cabinetry, opt for a neutral color palette, layer natural textures, and focus on purposeful design. Integrate greenery or handcrafted elements to bring warmth.
Is Japandi style good for small kitchens?
Yes! Japandi’s minimalist approach and strategic storage make the style ideal for compact spaces. The light colors and clean layouts visually expand the room.
Can I mix Japandi with other styles?
Japandi blends well with Scandinavian, mid-century modern, or biophilic design. Just keep your materials and palette cohesive to avoid clashing.
Bring Japandi Serenity Home with Bertch
If you’re inspired by the quiet beauty and intentional simplicity of Japandi design, Bertch is here to help you bring that vision to life.
From thoughtfully crafted cabinetry to timeless design solutions, we make it easy to create a space that feels calm, natural, and uniquely yours. Locate your nearest Bertch showroom to experience Japandi-inspired craftsmanship in person.
Looking to Offer Japandi Design to Your Own Customers?
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