21 Japandi Style Kitchen Ideas for a Zen-Like Cooking Space in 2025

These 21 Japandi Style Kitchen Ideas may be what you’re looking for, a fresh kitchen style that balances calm and function. Japandi design might be just what you need. This trending style combines Japanese minimalism with Scandinavian functionality to create spaces that feel both warm and structured.

Japandi kitchens use natural materials, simple color schemes, and clean lines to create peaceful cooking environments. You’ll find elements like wooden tones, minimalist storage solutions, and uncluttered countertops that make your kitchen feel more spacious and serene. Whether you have a small kitchen or larger space, these 21 ideas will help you transform your cooking area into a harmonious blend of Eastern and Western design philosophies.

1) Minimalist cabinetry with clean lines

Japandi kitchens shine when you keep cabinetry simple and uncluttered. Choose flat-panel or slab cabinet doors without fancy details or hardware. This creates a calm, clean look that’s at the heart of this style.

Natural wood tones work great for cabinets in a Japandi kitchen. Think light oak, walnut, or ash with visible wood grain. You can also go with matte white or soft neutral colors if wood isn’t your thing.

Hardware should be minimal or even hidden. Push-to-open mechanisms or simple metal handles in black or brass add function without fuss. The goal is to create a smooth, uninterrupted surface.

Consider open shelving to display a few carefully chosen items. Just don’t overdo it – remember that less is more in Japandi design.

Cabinet layouts should focus on function. Include smart storage solutions to keep countertops clear of clutter. Pull-out organizers and hidden compartments help maintain that clean, minimalist look.

The beauty of Japandi cabinetry comes from its simplicity. When you strip away unnecessary details, you’re left with a peaceful cooking space that feels both modern and timeless.

2) Natural wood open shelving

Natural wood open shelving is a key element in Japandi kitchens. It combines Japanese minimalism with Scandinavian functionality to create a clean yet warm look.

Open shelves made from light oak, birch, or maple add a natural touch to your kitchen space. These woods bring warmth and texture that balances the clean lines of a minimalist design.

Unlike closed cabinets, open shelving keeps everyday items within easy reach. This practical approach aligns perfectly with the Japandi philosophy of simplicity and usefulness.

Try using wooden shelves to display simple ceramics or bamboo containers. This creates visual interest without cluttering your space.

The natural wood tones complement other elements in your kitchen, like wooden countertops or bamboo accents. This creates a cohesive look that feels intentional and calm.

Open shelving also encourages you to be more mindful about what you own. Since everything is visible, you’ll naturally keep only what you truly need and love.

For the most authentic Japandi feel, choose wood with visible grain patterns. These natural details add character while maintaining the style’s signature understated elegance.

3) Concrete countertops

Concrete countertops are a perfect match for Japandi kitchens. They blend the minimalist aesthetic of Scandinavian design with the natural, earthy elements of Japanese style.

You can choose from different finishes for your concrete countertops. Polished concrete gives a sleek, modern look while a matte finish offers a more subdued appearance that fits the Japandi vibe perfectly.

These countertops are incredibly durable and practical for everyday use. They can handle hot pots, cutting, and food prep without much worry.

The natural gray tones of concrete pair beautifully with warm wood cabinets, another key element in Japandi design. This contrast creates a balanced, harmonious kitchen space.

For a more custom look, you can add subtle pigments to your concrete countertops. Soft earth tones like gentle beige or pale sage green work well in Japandi spaces.

Concrete’s sleek appearance helps maintain the clutter-free environment that’s essential to Japandi style. Its simple beauty lets other elements in your kitchen shine without competing for attention.

4) Neutral color palette with beiges and greys

A key element of Japandi style is its calm, soothing color palette. In your kitchen, focus on neutral colors like soft beiges and muted greys. These shades create a peaceful atmosphere while maintaining visual interest.

You can use warm beige tones for cabinets to add warmth to the space. Pair them with cool grey countertops or backsplashes for a balanced look. This combination works beautifully in Japandi kitchens because it feels both modern and timeless.

Don’t be afraid to incorporate different shades within the beige and grey families. Light greige (a mix of grey and beige) is particularly popular for cabinets, giving you the perfect blend of warmth and sophistication.

For your walls, consider soft whites or pale greys that will make the space feel open and airy. These neutral backgrounds let your wooden elements and minimalist decor shine.

Remember that the goal is to create a harmonious, uncluttered space. The beige and grey palette helps achieve this by avoiding bold colors that might feel visually overwhelming or distracting in your Japandi kitchen.

5) Integrated appliances hidden behind cabinetry

Japandi kitchens embrace clean lines and minimal visual clutter. You can achieve this look by hiding appliances behind sleek cabinetry. Modern refrigerators, dishwashers, and even microwaves can be fully integrated to maintain the calm aesthetic.

Sliding cabinet doors are particularly effective for this style. They allow you to easily access your appliances when needed but keep them hidden when not in use. This creates a more cohesive and unobtrusive appearance in your kitchen.

Built-in ovens and induction cooktops blend seamlessly with surrounding cabinetry. Choose models with simple controls and minimal branding to maintain the understated Japandi look.

Consider appliance garages for smaller items like toasters and coffee makers. These countertop cabinets keep daily essentials accessible but hidden, preserving the tranquil feeling of your space.

The wood tones of your cabinetry will warm up the cool stainless steel of appliances. This balance of natural and modern elements is central to successful Japandi design.

6) Floating wooden kitchen island

A floating wooden kitchen island is a stunning centerpiece for any Japandi-style kitchen. It creates a sense of lightness and space while staying true to the natural elements that define this design approach.

You can achieve this look by choosing an island with slender legs or a cantilevered design that appears to hover above the floor. The minimalist structure creates an airy feeling in your kitchen while providing practical workspace.

Choose warm wood tones like oak, maple, or walnut for your floating island. These materials bring natural beauty and warmth to your space, balancing the clean lines of Japandi design.

For a truly authentic look, opt for wood with visible grain patterns. This celebrates the natural imperfections that are valued in Japanese wabi-sabi philosophy.

Keep the island’s design simple and functional. Add a few wooden stools with clean lines to maintain the minimalist aesthetic while creating a casual dining spot.

Consider incorporating hidden storage within your floating island to maintain the clutter-free appearance that’s essential to Japandi style.

7) Stone-like Dekton kitchen island surface

Dekton is a perfect match for your Japandi kitchen island. This ultra-compact surface combines the best aspects of Japanese and Scandinavian design principles with its minimalist look and practical features.

Unlike natural stone, Dekton resists scratches, stains, and heat, making it ideal for busy cooking spaces. You can place hot pots directly on it without worrying about damage, which aligns with the Japandi focus on functionality.

The material comes in various earthy tones and textures that mimic natural stone. Choose soft grays, warm beiges, or muted whites to maintain the calm, balanced aesthetic of Japandi design.

Pair your Dekton countertop with wooden cabinetry for that signature Japandi contrast between smooth stone-like surfaces and warm natural materials. The island becomes both a practical workspace and a visual anchor in your kitchen.

For a truly harmonious look, consider extending the Dekton material as a waterfall edge down the sides of your island. This creates a clean, seamless appearance that embodies the simplicity valued in Japandi design.

8) Japandi-inspired lime wash walls

Lime wash brings a soft, textural feel to your Japandi kitchen walls. This ancient painting technique creates a matte, breathable surface that adds depth and character to your space.

The natural, earthy quality of lime wash perfectly complements the Japandi aesthetic. You’ll find it helps create that calm, tranquil atmosphere that’s central to this design style.

When choosing colors, stick to neutral tones like soft whites, beiges, or gentle grays. These shades enhance the minimalist vibe while keeping your kitchen feeling warm and inviting.

The slightly imperfect, cloudy appearance of lime wash walls provides a beautiful contrast to sleek cabinets and clean lines in your kitchen. It’s this balance between raw and refined that makes Japandi style so appealing.

For the best results, consider lime washing just one feature wall in your kitchen. This creates a focal point without overwhelming the space.

Lime wash is also sustainable and non-toxic, aligning perfectly with the eco-friendly values of Japandi design. You’ll appreciate how this natural finish promotes better indoor air quality while looking beautiful.

9) Matte black fixtures and hardware

Matte black fixtures and hardware offer a sleek, modern touch to your Japandi kitchen. These elements create a striking contrast against light wood cabinets or white walls common in Japandi design.

Choose matte black faucets, cabinet handles, and drawer pulls to add depth without overwhelming the space. The non-reflective finish aligns perfectly with the Japandi philosophy of understated elegance.

You can start small by updating just your cabinet hardware. Or go all-in with matching black faucets, light fixtures, and appliance handles for a cohesive look.

The beauty of matte black is its versatility. It pairs well with both the warm woods of Japanese design and the cool neutrals of Scandinavian aesthetics.

For a balanced look, don’t overdo it. Select a few key pieces rather than making everything black. This follows the Japandi principle of intentional minimalism.

Black hardware also hides fingerprints and water spots better than shiny finishes, making it practical for a busy kitchen. This practicality, combined with timeless style, makes matte black fixtures a smart choice for your Japandi kitchen.

10) Soft natural lighting through large windows

Natural light is a key element in Japandi kitchens. Large windows allow sunlight to flood your cooking space, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that feels connected to nature.

You can enhance this effect by positioning your kitchen where it gets the most daylight. East-facing kitchens catch beautiful morning light, perfect for breakfast time, while west-facing spaces enjoy golden afternoon rays.

If large windows aren’t possible in your space, consider alternatives. Reflective surfaces and light-colored tiles can help bounce existing light around the room. Skylights are another excellent option if your kitchen is on the top floor.

Window treatments should be minimal in Japandi design. Opt for simple blinds or sheer curtains that filter light rather than block it completely. This maintains privacy while still allowing that soft, diffused glow.

The natural lighting complements wood elements and neutral color schemes typical in Japandi design. It highlights the natural textures and brings out the warmth of wooden surfaces and cabinetry.

11) Mix of Japanese tatami textures with Scandinavian wool textiles

Bringing together tatami textures from Japan with cozy Scandinavian wool creates a perfect Japandi kitchen balance. You can add tatami-inspired mats near your sink area or as placemats to bring in that distinctive woven look.

For a practical touch, consider small wool rugs in neutral colors placed strategically in your kitchen. These add warmth to wooden or concrete floors while staying true to Scandinavian design principles.

Dining chair cushions offer another opportunity to blend these textures. Try tatami-inspired seat pads with wool throws draped over chair backs for both comfort and style.

Kitchen towels and potholders can also showcase this textural mix. Look for tatami-patterned kitchen linens alongside simple wool textiles in complementary earth tones.

Wall hangings that incorporate both design elements make for interesting focal points. A woven wall piece with tatami-like patterns paired with wool elements adds visual interest without overwhelming your space.

Remember that less is more in Japandi design. Choose just a few key textile pieces rather than filling every surface with different textures.

12) Simple ceramic dishware collections

Japandi style kitchens shine when you display simple ceramic dishware. Choose pieces with clean lines, neutral colors, and minimal patterns that match the calm aesthetic of this design style.

Look for dishes in soft whites, beiges, muted blues, or earthy greens. Hand-thrown ceramics with slight imperfections work perfectly in a Japandi kitchen, highlighting the Japanese wabi-sabi philosophy that finds beauty in imperfection.

Open shelving is a great way to display your ceramic collection. Arrange your pieces thoughtfully, leaving plenty of empty space around them to create that minimalist feel Japandi style is known for.

Mix different heights and shapes but stick to a consistent color palette. This creates visual interest without feeling cluttered or chaotic in your kitchen space.

When buying new pieces, focus on quality over quantity. A few well-made ceramic plates, bowls, and mugs will serve you better than cabinets stuffed with dishes you rarely use.

Consider handmade pieces from local artists that bring authenticity and craftsmanship to your kitchen. These unique items add character while maintaining the simple, functional approach that makes Japandi style so appealing.

13) Bamboo or rattan pendant lighting

Bamboo and rattan pendant lights are perfect additions to your Japandi kitchen. These natural materials bring warmth and texture while maintaining the clean lines that define Japandi style.

These fixtures create a cozy, inviting atmosphere without overwhelming your space. The handcrafted, woven patterns cast beautiful shadows that add interest to your kitchen.

The natural colors of bamboo and rattan blend seamlessly with Japandi’s neutral palette. They complement both the Japanese and Scandinavian elements of the style.

Consider hanging these pendants over your kitchen island or dining area. They work especially well in groups of two or three, creating balance and harmony.

Look for simple, minimalist designs that showcase the beauty of the material itself. Round shapes often resemble Asian lanterns, adding an authentic touch to your space.

These lights aren’t just beautiful—they’re functional too. They provide warm, ambient lighting that’s perfect for cooking and dining. Plus, their natural materials connect your indoor space to the outdoors, another key aspect of Japandi design.

14) Use of glass-front cabinets to showcase simple dishware

Glass-front cabinets are a perfect addition to any Japandi kitchen. They let you display your favorite minimalist ceramics and other simple dishware while keeping the clean aesthetic that defines this style.

When selecting items to display, choose pieces with clean lines and natural materials. Think simple white ceramics, wooden serving bowls, or matte black dishware that reflects the Japandi blend of minimalism and warmth.

Avoid cluttering these cabinets with too many items. Remember that in Japandi design, less is definitely more. You want each piece to have enough space to be appreciated.

Try arranging similar items together for a cohesive look. Stack plates of the same color or group cups with matching designs to create a sense of intentional organization.

The transparency of glass cabinets adds depth to your kitchen while keeping everything easily accessible. It’s also practical – you can quickly see what you have without opening doors.

For maximum impact, install some subtle LED lighting inside the cabinets. This gentle illumination will highlight your beautiful dishware and add a warm glow to your kitchen space.

15) Low-profile kitchen seating with natural fabrics

In Japandi kitchens, your seating should stay close to the ground, following Japanese tradition while maintaining clean Scandinavian lines. Low-profile chairs, stools, and benches create a relaxed, grounded feeling in your eating space.

Choose seating with natural fabrics like linen, cotton, or hemp to add softness to your kitchen. These materials bring warmth to the minimal space without disrupting the calm aesthetic.

Look for cushions in neutral colors like beige, cream, oatmeal, or soft gray. These earthy tones match the Japandi palette perfectly while providing comfort for longer meals.

Wooden stools with simple linen cushions work wonderfully at a kitchen island. For dining areas, consider low benches with thin cotton padding that keeps the clean lines intact.

The beauty of low-profile seating is how it opens up your kitchen visually. Without tall chair backs, your space feels more open and airy, a key element in Japandi design.

Remember to keep the seating arrangements uncluttered. Having fewer, well-chosen pieces creates that peaceful feeling that makes Japandi kitchens so appealing.

16) Greenery with bonsai or small potted plants

Bringing nature into your Japandi kitchen creates that perfect balance between Japanese minimalism and Scandinavian coziness. Small potted plants or bonsai trees add a touch of life to your clean, neutral space without overwhelming it.

Try placing a small bonsai on your kitchen island or countertop. These miniature trees embody the Japanese appreciation for nature and patience, making them perfect for a Japandi aesthetic.

Herb gardens work beautifully too. Not only do they add fresh greenery, but they’re practical for cooking. Place small pots of basil, mint, or rosemary on your windowsill where they can catch natural light.

Succulents are another great option for your Japandi kitchen. Their sculptural forms add visual interest while requiring minimal care, fitting perfectly with the low-maintenance philosophy of Japandi design.

Keep your plant selection modest. One or two carefully chosen plants will have more impact than numerous scattered ones. Remember, in Japandi style, less is definitely more.

Choose planters in natural materials like ceramic, wood, or bamboo. Simple, unglazed pots or those in muted earth tones complement the Japandi palette perfectly.

17) Subtle zen garden elements on countertops

Adding small zen garden elements to your Japandi kitchen countertops brings a peaceful touch to your cooking space. These miniature displays offer a moment of calm in the busy kitchen environment.

You can start with a small shallow tray filled with fine sand or pebbles. Use a tiny rake to create simple patterns when you need a mindful break from cooking.

A small bonsai tree or succulent arrangement makes for a living zen element that doesn’t take up much counter space. Choose low-maintenance plants that thrive in kitchen conditions.

Consider placing a few smooth river stones in a simple dish. The natural texture and organic shapes add to the Japandi aesthetic while remaining functional as a decorative piece.

Keep these elements minimal and tucked into corners where they won’t interfere with food preparation. The goal is to create little moments of tranquility without cluttering your workspace.

These subtle touches help blend Japanese zen principles with Scandinavian functionality. Your countertops can serve both practical purposes and provide visual calm in your kitchen.

18) Decorative wooden trays for organization

Wooden trays are perfect for bringing Japandi style to your kitchen while improving organization. These functional pieces combine the warmth of natural materials with clean, minimalist design that defines the Japandi aesthetic.

Look for wooden trays with simple lines and natural finishes that showcase the wood grain. You can use them on countertops to corral cooking oils, spices, and frequently used utensils in one neat spot.

A wooden tray on your kitchen island creates an instant styling moment while keeping items organized. Try placing a small plant, salt and pepper grinders, and everyday seasonings on a tray to keep everything contained.

In open shelving, trays help group similar items together, making your storage look intentional rather than cluttered. The warm wood tones add that perfect Japandi touch of natural material to your space.

For pantry organization, wooden trays can transform how you store dry goods or snacks. They make it easy to pull out entire categories of items at once, rather than searching for individual packages.

19) Hand-thrown pottery bowls for serving

Hand-thrown pottery bowls bring authentic texture and warmth to your Japandi kitchen. These artisanal pieces showcase the beauty of imperfection that’s central to Japanese wabi-sabi philosophy.

Look for ceramic bowls with blue crackle glazes or earthy tones that complement your neutral Japandi palette. The handmade quality of these pieces adds character to your dining experience.

You can use these versatile bowls for serving ramen, pasta, or hearty soups. Their organic shapes and slight irregularities make each meal feel more intentional and mindful.

For a special touch, consider Kintsugi bowls – Japanese ceramics mended with gold. These pieces tell a story and align perfectly with Japandi’s appreciation for sustainability and beauty in repair.

When selecting pottery, opt for pieces that feel substantial in your hands. The weight and texture should provide a tactile experience that connects you to the craftsperson who created it.

Display your favorite bowls on open shelving when not in use. They’ll serve as functional decor that enhances your kitchen’s Japandi aesthetic.

20) Smooth sliding shoji-style cabinet doors

Shoji-style sliding doors bring Japanese elegance to your Japandi kitchen cabinets. These smooth-gliding doors create a sense of calm while adding functional beauty to your space.

Unlike traditional hinged cabinet doors, sliding shoji doors don’t swing outward. This makes them perfect for smaller kitchens where space is limited. You can open them without worrying about bumping into them while cooking.

The translucent paper panels allow light to filter through, creating a soft glow around your dishes and kitchen items. You can choose traditional rice paper or modern alternatives like frosted glass for a more durable option.

For an authentic look, frame your sliding doors with natural wood in light tones. Oak, maple, or ash work beautifully in Japandi design. The smooth tracks ensure the doors glide quietly, adding to the peaceful atmosphere of your kitchen.

Consider installing these doors on upper cabinets to showcase beautiful dishware. They’re also great for pantry areas or to separate your kitchen from dining spaces while maintaining an open feel.

21) Light-colored oak kitchen floors

Light oak floors bring a warm, airy feel to your Japandi kitchen. They reflect natural light well, making even smaller kitchens feel more spacious and inviting.

These floors create the perfect foundation for a Japandi design by blending Scandinavian brightness with Japanese warmth. The natural wood grain adds subtle texture while maintaining the minimalist aesthetic that’s central to Japandi style.

You can pair light oak floors with white or cream cabinetry for a clean look. Or create contrast with darker elements like matte black fixtures or deep green cabinets.

For the most authentic Japandi vibe, choose oak floors with a matte or low-gloss finish. This keeps the space feeling natural rather than overly polished or artificial.

The durability of oak makes it practical for busy kitchens, while its timeless appeal ensures your space won’t feel dated quickly. Light oak’s versatility also means you can easily update other elements of your kitchen without needing to replace the flooring.

Core Elements of Japandi Kitchen Design

Japandi kitchen design merges the best of Japanese and Scandinavian aesthetics to create peaceful, functional spaces. The style focuses on simplicity, natural materials, and a balanced approach to both form and function.

Choosing a Warm, Neutral Color Palette

When designing your Japandi kitchen, start with a foundation of warm neutrals. Think soft whites, beiges, taupes, and gentle grays that create a calm backdrop. These colors help your space feel both cozy and spacious at the same time.

You can add depth with muted earth tones like terracotta, sage green, or dusty blue. These accent colors work beautifully against natural wood tones without overwhelming the space.

Popular Japandi Color Combinations:

• Warm white walls with medium-toned wood cabinets
• Soft gray cabinetry with black hardware and light wood accents
• Beige backgrounds with matcha green details
• Natural wood with charcoal accents

Remember that the colors should feel harmonious together, not competing for attention. Less is more in Japandi design.

Mixing Scandinavian and Japanese Materials

The heart of Japandi style is in the materials you choose. Wood is essential—opt for varieties with visible grain patterns like oak, walnut, or maple to bring warmth and texture.

Key Materials to Include:

• Natural wood (especially for cabinets, countertops, or open shelving)
• Stone elements like concrete or marble (used sparingly)
• Matte ceramics for backsplashes or decorative items
• Handcrafted pottery and textiles

Mix light Scandinavian woods with darker Japanese-inspired elements to create visual interest. For example, pair pale oak cabinets with a dark walnut dining table or stools.

Consider adding bamboo, rattan, or paper elements for authentic Japanese touches. These can appear in lighting fixtures, window treatments, or even cabinet handles.

Aim for a balance between different textures while keeping everything natural and minimally processed.

Embracing Clean Lines and Minimalism

Keep your Japandi kitchen clutter-free with clean lines and thoughtful storage solutions. Cabinet fronts should be simple—either flat-panel or with minimal detailing.

Hide small appliances behind cabinet doors when possible. This creates a seamless, peaceful look that’s central to Japandi design.

Consider open shelving for items you use daily, but don’t overload them. Display only a few carefully chosen pieces that combine beauty and function.

Minimalist Features to Include:

• Handle-less cabinets or simple hardware
• Hidden storage solutions
• Limited decorative items (choose quality over quantity)
• Streamlined fixtures and lighting

Your kitchen should feel purposeful, with every item earning its place. Remove anything that doesn’t serve a function or bring you joy—this philosophy draws from both Japanese and Scandinavian design traditions.

Easy Ways to Maintain a Japandi Kitchen

Keeping your Japandi kitchen beautiful doesn’t have to be complicated. The style thrives on simplicity, which makes maintenance straightforward once you establish good habits.

Decluttering Your Space

Clutter is the enemy of Japandi style. Take 10 minutes each evening to return items to their proper homes. This small habit prevents buildup that contradicts the minimalist aesthetic.

Store appliances you don’t use daily in cabinets rather than on countertops. Consider a “one in, one out” rule—when you bring a new kitchen item home, remove something else.

Open shelving looks beautiful but requires discipline. Display only items you use regularly and that fit the color scheme. Group similar objects together for a more intentional look.

Avoid impulse purchases that don’t serve multiple purposes. In Japandi kitchens, everything should earn its place through function and beauty.

Caring for Natural Materials

Wood surfaces need regular attention to maintain their warmth. Wipe wooden countertops and cabinets with a damp cloth daily, and apply food-safe oil monthly to prevent drying and cracking.

For bamboo elements, use mild soap and water for cleaning, and avoid soaking these materials as they can warp.

Stone surfaces like concrete or marble countertops should be sealed according to manufacturer recommendations—usually every 6-12 months.

Clean matte black fixtures with non-abrasive cleaners to preserve their finish. Microfiber cloths work best to prevent scratches on these surfaces.

Natural fiber textiles like linen kitchen towels should be washed in cold water and air-dried to maintain their texture and appearance.