Japandi vs Wabi-Sabi: Understanding the Difference and How to Style Your Home with Each
Minimalism, mindfulness, and a deep appreciation for nature — there’s a reason we’re drawn to design styles that make our homes feel calm and considered. Two of the most talked-about styles right now are Japandi and Wabi-Sabi. While they both share Japanese roots, they’re not the same — and the differences matter, especially when choosing tiles for your home.
Whether you’re updating your living room floors, tiling your bathroom, or planning a beautiful new kitchen splashback, understanding these two styles can help you create a space that feels just right.
What is Japandi?
Japandi is the meeting of two worlds: Japanese minimalism and Scandinavian comfort. It’s clean, calm and unfussy — but also soft and welcoming. Think functional design, low furniture, and a mix of textures to keep things interesting without going overboard.
Where it works best:
If you love the idea of a home that’s uncluttered but still cosy, Japandi might be your go-to style.
Flooring:
Japandi spaces love light timber looks. Wood-look porcelain tiles in soft oak or blonde ash tones are perfect for open-plan living areas. They're easy to clean, incredibly durable, and bring a beautiful warmth underfoot.
Bathrooms:
For Japandi bathrooms, keep it simple with matt-finish tiles in soft neutral tones like beige, taupe or warm greys. Linear shapes and smooth textures create that serene, spa-like mood.
Splashbacks:
Keep splashbacks minimal and refined. A vertical slimline subway tile or narrow kit-kat in off-white or muted clay can add just enough texture without overwhelming the space.
300.0mm x 300.0mm x 8.0mm
400.0mm x 600.0mm x 10.0mm
What is Wabi-Sabi?
Wabi-Sabi celebrates the perfectly imperfect. It’s less about symmetry and polish, and more about natural materials, ageing gracefully, and appreciating the little quirks that make a space feel real. Think raw edges, handmade textures, and a more relaxed, lived-in aesthetic.
Where it works best:
If you’re someone who finds beauty in a handmade ceramic bowl or the patina of aged timber, Wabi-Sabi might feel like home.
Flooring:
Go for tiles that embrace natural variation — like stone-look porcelains with organic veining and soft weathered tones. Matte finishes and textured surfaces bring authenticity and comfort to your floors.
Bathrooms:
Choose tiles that feel handcrafted — irregular shapes, tumbled edges, and earthy tones like moss, charcoal or chalk. A combination of stone-look tiles and brushed tapware completes the look.
Splashbacks:
This is where you can have a little fun. Choose tiles with variation in tone and glaze — no two should be exactly alike. Soft greens, inky blues, or natural clay colours bring warmth and personality to your kitchen.
310.0mm x 310.0mm x 10.0mm
Which Style is Right for You?
Japandi gives you balance and clarity. Wabi-Sabi gives you character and soul. Which to choose? It just comes down to what makes you feel at ease in your home.
No matter which path you choose, Beaumont Tiles has a wide range of products to help you bring it to life. From timber-look and stone-look tiles, to handmade-style splashbacks and textured finishes, our experts can guide you every step of the way.
Visit your local showroom or browse online to discover tiles that suit your style — and your space.
