Japandi Bathroom – My Favourite Japandi Bathroom Styles

Wondering how can you incorporate the Japndi style into your bathroom design? 

Here’s how I do it: 

If you don’t know already, Japandi is a design trend that combines the minimalist elegance of Japanese design with the functionality and coziness of Scandinavian (Scandi) style.

So, to create a Japandi bathroom, I usually focus on these fundamental elements:

• Natural materials (use wood, bamboo, rattan and stone etc. for a natural and organic feel).
• Neutral color palettes (try to stick to earthy, muted colors like beige, gray, and white).
• Clean lines (choose simple, geometric shapes for fixtures and furniture).
• Minimalism (keep things simple – less is more with minimalist-inspired design).
• Functionality (make sure the furniture you do have is practical and space-saving, because you won’t have much of it!)

Japandi bathroom ideas

Here are a few of my favourite ideas specific to creating a Japandi-inspired bathroom:

Freestanding bathtub

If you have the space for it, look for a simple, naturally-shaped tub with clean lines. A nice scandi-inspired bath mat can add warmth too.

Wooden accents

See if you can incorporate simple and elegant wooden shelves or a vanity for your storage. Keep items and accessories stored away where possible (but practically placed and easy to get to, to encourage Zen-like living). 

Zen greenery

I love using potted plants or hanging greenery create a wonderfully calming atmosphere. Just make sure they’re getting sufficient light and they’re not overcrowding your space.

Minimalist lighting

It’s tempting to rely on the overhead light fixtures in your bathroom, but selecting more understated Japandi lighting fixtures like pendant lights or recessed lighting is much better for the Japandi look – just make sure it’s bright enough for your grooming activity. 

Functional storage

I use streamlined storage solutions like floating shelves or wall-mounted cabinets to save on floor space. Make sure your essentials are easy-to-access. Particularly important for smaller bathrooms like en-suites and apartment bathrooms.

For me, Japandi is about peaceful and practical living – you don’t want to be rummaging through drawers that are awkward to access just to get your toothbrush. 

Personal touches

I think it’s important to personalize your Japandi bathroom with unique touches:

• Showcase some minimalist, nature-inspired Japandi wall art.
• Get some organic cotton or linen towels and bath mats in neutral colors.
• Use essential oils or candles with subtle, natural scents like sandalwood or lavender.

Japandi Bathroom Layout Ideas

I find that the Japandi philosophy is about creating a space you’re comfortable in. 

While minimalism and aesthetics are a part of that, having a practical and easy-to-use layout is equally important. 

You want everything you need in a convenient, accessible place, while ensuring your space isn’t cluttered and crowded. 

Here are some layout ideas for your Japandi bathroom:

Aim to:

• Make the most of natural light

Utilize that bathroom window light by putting your mirror in the sunspots. It will help create a more airy atmosphere. Also, using lighter shades on walls and tiles will reflect and amplify natural light.

• Minimize clutter

My mantra is keeping countertops and surfaces clear of unnecessary items where possible. If you have kids this might be almost impossible – but a few minimalist, practical storage solutions can go a long way!

• Use floating elements

Can you install floating vanities and shelves? They save on floor space which creates the feeling of an open plain.

• Make the most of glass

Glass shower enclosures can make your space feel bigger – but also, walk in showers or wetrooms can create the illusion of a much bigger space too (if you have the space for it in the first place). 

• Incorporating greenery

Greenery adds life to your bathroom.

• Try using potted plants – small plants that fit nicely on shelves or countertops.
• Use some hanging planters – suspend them from the ceiling or hooks.
• Adding a living wall – if you have the space and time to maintain it, a vertical garden in your bathroom is a bold statement.

Japandi Bathroom Fixtures and Furniture

Here are some ideas for Japandi furniture and fixtures to consider in your bathroom:

A Japanese soaking tub or Ofuro

A Japanese soaking tub, or Ofuro, is a perfect addition to a Japandi bathroom. 

They’re generally very space-efficient, focusing on depth as opposed to length which is a nice touch. And they’re such an indulgent relaxation piece. 

Keep in mind:

Shape and material – Go for a deep, square or round tub that’s simplistic in its design.

Placement – Position the tub near a window if possible to enjoy the view and natural light.

Pair with a shower – Combining your Ofuro with a minimalist, walk-in shower is a match made in heaven.

A minimalist vanity

When shopping for a Japandi-style vanity:

• Choose clean lines and a simple design without ornate details.
• Use natural materials, so a wooden vanity in a light or medium finish, for example.
• Ensure plenty of storage space with drawers or cabinets.

Other bathroom furniture ideas

I love installing floating wooden shelves to elegantly display plants, towels, and toiletries.

You can also include a small wooden stool or Japandi bench for a touch of minimalist functionality.

I also gravitate towards minimalist towel racks made of wood or metal in a simple design.

Go with a simple, frameless mirror, or one with a slim wooden frame to keep things uncomplicated. 

Japandi Bathroom Décor and Accessories

To complete your bathroom transformation, Japandi décor and accessories are the final touch to complement your design philosophy. 

Here are some ideas I often refer to:

Simple but sophisticated Japandi art can enhance the ambience of your bathroom.

• Choose minimalist, nature-themed pieces.
• Focus on simple wooden frames or frameless art.
• In terms of placement, hang artwork on a focal wall or above the vanity, for example.

Incorporating Japanese and Scandinavian textiles

Japandi textiles contribute to the overall comfort and warmth of your bathroom.

I like to keep these tips in mind:

• Select organic cotton or linen towels and bath mats in neutral colors.
• Choose a simple, understated shower curtain if you’re using one, with a light, natural hue.
• For your bathroom robes, look for plush, neutral-colored robes for added luxury and comfort.

Using minimalist lighting fixtures

Lighting sets the mood in your Japandi bathroom. Try to use one of these 3 options that are a bit more subtle and controllable:

• Pendant lights
• Recessed lighting
• Dimmers

Subtle touches of Zen

Here are my favourite Zen-inspired accessories to contribute to your Japandi style in the bathroom:

• Candles and diffusers 

I love subtle, natural scents like sandalwood or lavender to create a calming environment.

• Stone elements

Add a small collection of smooth stones or a stone soap dish for an earthy touch.

• Bamboo tray

Try getting a bamboo tray for over the tub for added functionality and style.

Your ultimate goal is to create a bathroom that offers a calming retreat from daily life.

Japandi Bathroom Colors

I find the color scheme plays a crucial role in capturing the essence of a Japandi bathroom. 

Here’s how to create the perfect Japandi colour palette for the bathroom:

1. Start with your base colours

Begin with a neutral color palette, including shades of beige, gray, and white.

1. Add some natural, earthy accents: 

When you’ve got your foundation colors laid out, compliment them with subtle earthy tones, such as soft greens, muted blues, or warm browns, or even dusty pinks. 

Try to stick to colors that you typically see in nature (the possibilities are endless really!). 

1. Balance light and dark contrasts

To create visual interest and harmony in your bathroom try to balance the light and dark elements:

• Choose lighter colors for walls, tiles, and large furniture pieces.
• Add contrast with darker accessories, such as towel racks, faucets, or picture frames.
• Avoid harsh color contrasts by using shades that gradually transition from light to dark.

Scandinavian warmth with wooden elements

Wooden elements are key to adding warmth and texture to your Japandi bathroom and bring out the Scandi, sauna-like vibe.

I like to use light to medium wood tones, such as oak, ash, or maple, for a Scandinavian influence.

And in terms of furniture, think wooden vanities, shelves, or seating.

You can even add wooden accessories like a bath mat, mirror frame, or towel hooks for more subtle additions.

Japandi Bathroom Flooring and Wall Options

To create a truly authentic Japandi bathroom, I gravitate towards these flooring and wall options:

Japandi style calls for natural materials underfoot:

• Wood (light to medium-toned wooden floors, such as oak or bamboo)
• Stone (choose natural stone tiles, like slate or limestone)
• Porcelain (go for some porcelain tiles that mimic the appearance of wood or stone for a durable, low-maintenance alternative)

As for your walls, I often use these Japandi-inspired finishes:

• A natural, textured plaster finish in a neutral color for a warm, organic feel.
• Install shiplap or vertical wooden panels in light-toned wood for a Scandinavian touch.
• Create a feature wall with textured tiles, such as a stone mosaic or a patterned ceramic design.

Japandi bathroom tile designs

When choosing tiles for a Japandi bathroom, here are some of my go-tos:

• Go with subtle geometric or nature-inspired patterns that are understated and elegant.
• Use soft, earthy tones that complement the overall color scheme.
• Try to combine different tile styles and materials where possible and get creative. 

Maintaining a Japandi Bathroom

Here are my tips for keeping your Japandi bathroom clean, sustainable, and fresh (it’s great for wellness at home):

• Stick to a regular cleaning routine
• Utilize minimalist storage options like drawers, cabinets, and shelves to keep items organized and out of sight.
• Declutter your bathroom from time to time to ensure it remains a tranquil space.

Sustainability is a cornerstone of the Japandi philosophy too. Think about potential eco-friendly practices such as:

• Installing low-flow faucets and showerheads to conserve water.
• Choosing organic, eco-friendly bath products and cleaning supplies.
• Opting for LED lighting and energy-efficient appliances to reduce energy consumption.

And finally, consider updating your bathroom with seasonal touches:

• Consider rotating towels, bath mats, and shower curtains for different colors or textures that reflect the current season.
• Rotate plants or add seasonal blooms to bring in new life and energy.
• Update small décor items, such as candles, diffusers, or art, to create a subtle seasonal shift.