The Simplicity of Japanese and Scandinavian Design Techniques
Image: The Guest House
Japanese
Design
Beauty, Simplicity and RefinementÂ
At Arkular, our spaces are efficient in every possible way. Each plan is carefully considered using Japanese design principles to minimise wasted space in cohesion with Scandinavian utilitarian efficiencies, whilst maintaining the Australian style essential for a refined and relaxed lifestyle.
As noted by Maki (2022), Japanese architecture avoids artificial uniformity, creating attractive spaces that have harmonious relationships with people and nature.
Read on to learn more about Japanese and Scandinavian design techniques and how we utilise these principles within our design process.
Wabi-Sabi (侘寂)
Wabi-sabi is a Japanese concept that seeks to find beauty in objects, landscapes and designs, even when imperfect and simplistic in nature.
The movement has become increasingly popular in the Western world, with many designers, architects and artists drawing inspiration from the practicality and mindfulness of the concept.
“Seek beauty in things that evolve and age with time.”
Instead of resisting the process of ageing, Wabi-Sabi emulates the acceptance and appreciation of the beauty of those changes and imperfections.
We encapsulate these principles within our design process by utilising natural materials. The use of sustainably sourced Silvertop Ash timber at our Bonnie Doon project will see the house mature gracefully to reveal a silvered aesthetic, naturally welcoming the beauty and charm of aging.
Explore the details of our Bonnie Doon House.Â
Kanso (ç°¡ç´ )
Sitting among the seven Zen concepts is Kanso – the Japanese art of minimalism.
Kanso centres on removing the unnecessary aspects and only utilising what is functional, so you are left with the bare essentials. Although it may sound like an extreme way to live, it can be used as a reminder to consume less and appreciate the beauty of minimalism.
When designing our homes we believe in less house more home, with clever floorplans and mindful additions, maximising efficient use of space through careful spatial planning.
See our range of set designs that redefine minimal living, optimising space and creating homes that live and breathe refined simplicity.
What is Scandinavian Design?
Scandinavian design is deeply utilitarian, aiming to release attachment to clutter and promote a purer, happier way of living.
The focal elements of Scandinavian design are functionality, simplicity, and artistry. A majority of Nordic-style designs also favour natural materials, especially pale woods such as ash, wool and linen textiles. Scandinavian-style designs have an understated, minimalist appearance.
Scandinavian interiors and furniture designs feature white, off-white, and grey hues along with muted blue and green colours. Darker accents can also create bold colour contrasts.
Hygge
Pronounced “hoo-gah” the Danish concept Hygge represents cosiness and surrounding yourself with the things that make life meaningful, such as friendship, laughter and security.
Hygge is such an integral part of being Danish that it is considered “a defining feature of our cultural identity and an integral part of the national DNA,” says Meik Wiking, the CEO of the Happiness Research Institute in Copenhagen.
At Arkular we are inspired by the principles of Scandinavian design, curating spaces of comfort, security and happiness.
Japandi – Combining Japanese Minimalism & Scandinavian EfficiencyÂ
At Arkular, we take inspiration from both Japanese and Scandinavian design values, whilst maintaining a distinct Australian influence to create healthy and meaningful homes.
The concept of Japandi combines simplicity, natural elements, comfort, sustainability, and mindful consumption, embracing imperfections and maintaining functionality for a refined and relaxed home and lifestyle.
Arkular’s Japanese, Australian, and Scandinavian architectural design aesthetic incorporates minimalism, sustainability, simplicity, and Australia’s relaxed outdoor lifestyle, resulting in spaces that provide a harmonious blend of tranquillity, connectivity with nature and emphasis on indoor-outdoor living.
