Global tranquillity: Nordic and Japanese-inspired décor styles

Lifestyle

Jul 1

In a world where our homes have become sanctuaries, interior decor styles play a pivotal role in shaping our daily experiences.

From cosy corners to minimalist havens, each aesthetic whispers a unique story. What’s wonderful about the highly connected world we live in today is that anyone can draw inspiration from around the world to create the spaces they dream of.

Certain décor styles have arisen not from fashion or societal trends, but rather have their origins in the cultural heritage of certain destinations. And many of us are looking north for décor that makes us feel comforted. Nordic and Japanese interiors aren’t just Insta-worth, they’re surprisingly accessible and synergise well with other décor styles. It’s no surprise they have become and continue to be popular choices for home interiors. Buckle up as we unravel the threads of Japandi, Wabi-Sabi, Hygge and Lagom that weave warmth, balance, and imperfection into the fabric of our living spaces.

A closer look at four décor philosophies

Japandi: A delightful blend of Japanese minimalism and Scandinavian warmth. The style is focused on simplicity, natural elements, comfort, and sustainability.

Wabi-Sabi: Rooted in Japanese philosophy, Wabi-Sabi celebrates imperfection and the beauty of ageing. This style isn’t so much a style as it is a guiding ethos but it’s about finding beauty in the everyday, and in the natural changes that occur over time.

Lagom: A fusion of Swedish and Japanese influences, Lagom emphasises balance and moderation. It’s a way of living your life with wellness and peacefulness in mind.

Hygge: Hailing from Denmark, Hygge (pronounced “hoo-gah”) embodies extreme cosiness and well-being. It’s all about creating a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Bring Nordic and Japanese-style home

Japanese décor styles focus on clean lines and handmade elements. It’s rustic and embraces imperfection, but it has loads of warmth. It can also inspire chic furniture with a sleek softness that makes it both modern and comfortable. Nordic décor styles favour simplicity but great craftsmanship. There’s a snug feeling with texture and a focus on sustainable designs.

If all this sounds like the perfect welcoming décor, then you’ll want Zorora sofas. This proudly South African furniture brand uses premium materials and unique designs that stand the test of time. Its furniture feels softer, lasts longer, is locally made and has been created specifically to be great value for money. Their styles fit perfectly into both Japanese- and Nordic-inspired décor and, best of all, offer a selection of FibreGuard upholstery fabrics that are unique to the Zorora brand.

FibreGuard - chic in any home

Colour is an important element of both Japanese- and Nordic-inspired decor. For Japandi and Wabi-Sabi, earthy tones are the way to go with rust, muted greens, and warm browns creating an elegant style statement. FibreGuard’s Fellow fabric has a mélange effect featured in the design that draws the eye to the surface to reveal the super fine weave construction. This textural effect works incredibly well in the Moss and Aragon colourways.

For Hygge and Lagom, the idea is to visualise what would look great with a faux or woollen blanket and candlelight. This is why warm white, warm grey, and mint green can form the foundation of a Nordic-inspired décor scheme. Because of the focus on texture, a beautiful upholstery choice would be FibreGuard’s Deluxe collection. It’s a soft, superfine velvet that leans into the quiet luxury aesthetic in the Blush and Sesame colourways.

With these and any other décor style, warm neutrals are always a timeless choice. Not only are they visually soothing, but they also provide an adaptable foundation where colour can be introduced through statement pieces and accessories or maintain a tasteful look and add depth with textural elements.

Even if you live by the coast or perhaps want to create an urban oasis, Japanese and Nordic styles do offer style classics as well as a desirable feeling. These styles are more than a look. It’s a mindset—a celebration of life’s intimate moments. And you want the right furniture and upholstery to create those special times. Visit the Zorora website to browse their designs and explore their unique FibreGuard upholstery options.