How The Block learned about (and nailed) the Japandi trend

When Steph and Gian were deciding on a style for their home on The Block it was a no-brainer. “The Japandi style makes for easy, liveable spaces that feel relaxed without being boring,” says Steph.

“While Scandi style is about pared-back functional minimalism, Japanese interiors like to embrace the beauty of life and all its imperfections. When you bring them together, you get a sophisticated look that relies on texture and earthy tones."

The Japandi trend leans on a seamless connection between indoors and outdoors.

“It’s important for people to engage with the outside space while they’re inside,” explains Steph. “We did this by framing our windows. The S Fold Sheer curtains we used in many of our rooms allow you to see outside at all times."

The team’s use of outdoor blinds is another way to increase the connection between the garden and the house. The motorised blinds come down from the top of the gazebo and can be used all year round.

“They block the sun and protect that space from the wind,” says Steph. “They’re perforated, so add some lovely texture too."

Other ways to increase the connection between indoors and outdoors include using organic plants.

“When it comes to plants and natural elements, nothing should feel forced,” says Steph. The bamboo on the kitchen counter is a perfect example of this. She adds: “You’d never include a case of styled roses in Japandi styling. It should look undone–and a little bit wild.

In a Scandi home, everything is neutral; beiges and whites form the base of the colour palette. Japandi styling relies on a stronger colour to tie it all together.

The base colours in Steph and Gian’s house are neutral, but they’ve used subtle black elements that link every room together.

“The black bar stools, lights, and bench in the bathroom all provide some grounding to the space,” says Steph.

The key to making this work is keeping the touches light so they don’t overpower the room. In their master bedroom, Steph and Gian included a DIY Blinds custom black curtain track to help bring the same theme to the space. “It’s subtle but works as a feature in itself,” says Steph.

Natural textures paired with smooth sleek surfaces are an essential part of making Japandi styling work well.

“Using different fabrics and layers helps bring some balance to the sleek lines that come from the traditional Scandi approach,” explains Steph. “Organic textures that give a nod to the outdoors work really well.

”The team discovered that small touches can be effective. From the jute runner in the bathroom to rattan storage baskets and paper light shades, the smooth materials associated with the Scandi style are softened.

Window furnishings go a long way to helping this too. The Linesque Roman Blinds in Raffia BO that sit on either side of the bed in the master bedroom have a great texture. The lines on them also work really nicely with the detailing on the bed.

”The team also used Linesque Roman Blinds in their bathroom, this time in the colour Hazel LF.

“These add a lovely, filtered light,” says Steph. “They’re made from a synthetic blend, so don’t go mouldy in the bathroom humidity, and are the perfect way to add a little extra softness to a tiled space.

The Block 2023

Television’s most challenging renovation show is back with five pairs of contestants working tirelessly to transform five characterful houses into stylish family homes. DIY Blinds joins forces with the teams to provide interior design expertise and our range of custom-made blinds, shutters and curtains to ensure the finished homes are of the highest quality.

Learn more