Japanese style vs Scandinavian style: A Complete Guide
Japanese style and Scandinavian style are two of the most popular interior design styles, and they are often compared because of their surface-level similarities. However, they differ significantly in philosophy, materials, and execution. Japanese style is known for serene minimalism inspired by Japanese aesthetics, featuring natural materials, shoji screens, and harmonious balance, while Scandinavian style embraces light-filled spaces with functional furniture, natural materials, and a cozy yet minimal aesthetic from the Nordic tradition. Understanding the differences between these two styles will help you choose the right direction for your home, or even combine elements from both to create a personalized space.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Category | Japanese | Scandinavian |
|---|---|---|
| Color Palette | Natural Wood, White, Black, Earth Tones | White, Light Gray, Beige, Soft Blues |
| Key Materials | Bamboo, Rice Paper, Tatami, Natural Wood | Light Wood, Wool, Linen, Leather |
| Design Era | Traditional Japanese aesthetics | 1950s Nordic movement |
| Best Room Types | Living Room, Bedroom, Tea Room | Living Room, Bedroom, Kitchen |
| Budget Range | Medium - minimal quality craftsmanship | Medium - functional quality pieces |
| Maintenance | Low - minimal possessions | Low - simple functional pieces |
| Space Size | All sizes - efficient use of space | All sizes - light and airy maximizes space |
Color Palette
Natural Wood, White, Black, Earth Tones
White, Light Gray, Beige, Soft Blues
Key Materials
Bamboo, Rice Paper, Tatami, Natural Wood
Light Wood, Wool, Linen, Leather
Design Era
Traditional Japanese aesthetics
1950s Nordic movement
Best Room Types
Living Room, Bedroom, Tea Room
Living Room, Bedroom, Kitchen
Budget Range
Medium - minimal quality craftsmanship
Medium - functional quality pieces
Maintenance
Low - minimal possessions
Low - simple functional pieces
Space Size
All sizes - efficient use of space
All sizes - light and airy maximizes space
Key Differences
Japanese design is deeply influenced by Zen philosophy and spiritual balance; Scandinavian design is rooted in practical functionality and hygge
Japanese style features Zen Philosophy, Natural Materials, Tatami Mats, reflecting its core design philosophy of finding beauty in simplicity and harmony with nature.
Scandinavian style features Minimalist, Functional, Natural Light, reflecting its core design philosophy of democratic design that is beautiful, functional, and accessible.
Japanese interiors use sliding screens, tatami mats, and low furniture; Scandinavian interiors use raised furniture, open shelving, and area rugs
Japanese style furniture features low-profile platforms, floor-level living, and refined simplicity.
Scandinavian style furniture features light woods, organic curves, and pared-back functionality.
Japanese color palettes are muted and nature-based; Scandinavian palettes are brighter with pops of soft pastel
Japanese style typically uses Natural Wood, White, Black, creating a serene and balanced atmosphere.
Scandinavian style typically uses White, Light Gray, Beige, creating a light and airy atmosphere.
Japanese spaces embrace negative space (ma) as a design element; Scandinavian spaces fill emptiness with cozy textures
Japanese style relies on Bamboo, Rice Paper, Tatami, Natural Wood to create its signature look and feel.
Scandinavian style relies on Light Wood, Wool, Linen, Leather to create its signature look and feel.
Japanese bathrooms and rituals are deeply integrated into design; Scandinavian homes emphasize kitchen and living areas
In terms of japanese bathrooms and rituals are deeply integrated into design; scandinavian homes emphasize kitchen and living areas, Japanese style is defined by serene minimalism inspired by Japanese aesthetics, featuring natural materials, shoji screens, and harmonious balance.
In terms of japanese bathrooms and rituals are deeply integrated into design; scandinavian homes emphasize kitchen and living areas, Scandinavian style is defined by light-filled spaces with functional furniture, natural materials, and a cozy yet minimal aesthetic from the Nordic tradition.
What They Share
When to Choose Each Style
Choose Japanese If...
- Choose Japanese when you want a deeply contemplative, Zen-inspired space with intentional emptiness and spiritual calm
- You value serenity, balance, and mindful living
- You want a space that promotes calm and reduces stress
- You appreciate the beauty of natural materials and simplicity
Choose Scandinavian If...
- Choose Scandinavian when you want a bright, cozy, and practical minimalist space that feels warm and family-friendly
- You want a bright, airy space that feels warm and inviting
- You value functional design with a cozy hygge atmosphere
- You have a smaller space that benefits from light tones
Room-by-Room Comparison
Living Room
Low platform seating, a tatami-inspired rug, shoji screen room divider, and a single ikebana flower arrangement.
A light wood frame sofa with linen cushions, sheepskin throws, and a bright airy space with minimal clutter.
Bedroom
A futon or low platform bed, tatami mats, a single bonsai on a low table, and shoji screen closet doors.
A light birch bed frame, white linen duvet, woolen throw, and a simple pendant light above.
Kitchen
Clean unadorned cabinets, natural wood countertops, minimal accessories, and organized open storage.
White cabinetry with light wood accents, open shelving, and simple functional layout with pops of muted color.
Bathroom
A deep soaking tub (ofuro), natural stone, wood accents, and minimal accessories.
White subway tile, light wood vanity, a rain showerhead, and simple functional accessories.
Dining Room
A low dining table (chabudai), floor cushions (zabuton), and minimal tableware on a clean surface.
A light oak table, white wishbone-style chairs, a simple pendant, and a single greenery centerpiece.
Frequently Asked Questions
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