Japandi Design Transforms Luxury Living in 2026

The Japandi design aesthetic is making significant strides in 2026, characterized by warm minimalism, natural materials, and a seamless indoor–outdoor flow. This evolution is prominently showcased at the Mandarin Oriental Residences in Beverly Hills, where the trend is reshaping the concept of luxury living. As individuals increasingly seek calming environments, Japandi has transitioned from a mere preference to a vital necessity in interior design.

Giovanni Medina Marenco, the Design Director at 1508 London, has witnessed this shift firsthand through his collaboration on the Mandarin Oriental project, alongside renowned landscape architect Enzo Enea. “People are searching for calm… the home has become a place to reset,” Medina Marenco states. This sentiment underlines the current appeal of Japandi, which masterfully blends minimalism with warmth. Visitors to the residences are greeted by natural light cascading over pale woods and stone surfaces, creating an immediate sense of tranquility.

At the Mandarin Oriental Residences, the landscape is more than just an aesthetic backdrop; it plays a crucial role in the overall architecture. Enea’s design philosophy emphasizes a “creative intertwining of the soul of the house with its surroundings.” This principle is evident in the way nature is interwoven into the interiors, where floor-to-ceiling windows frame views of palms and hills, effectively turning them into artistic elements. Medina Marenco highlights the intentional design choices, such as the living rooms where horizon lines integrate with the interior palette, and the tranquil bonsai garden that welcomes visitors upon arrival.

The integration of nature and architecture creates a continuous flow, making the home feel alive and connected to its Beverly Hills environment. While minimalism has sometimes been criticized for evoking coldness, Medina Marenco asserts that Japandi prioritizes sensory and emotional experiences over mere form. He describes the style as “simplicity with soul,” where the tactile qualities of materials—like wood grain and soft curves—add warmth and character.

Japandi’s evolution parallels the rise of biophilic design, which emphasizes a connection to nature. Medina Marenco believes the two concepts are now intertwined. “Both begin with a respect for nature’s ability to restore us,” he explains. In the residences, this synergy manifests in how natural light defines a room’s character and how garden views appear in unexpected places, enhancing the sense of ease and flow throughout the home. These elements contribute to creating “homes that feel centered and deeply human,” according to Medina Marenco.

Curves play a significant role in Japandi interiors, serving an emotional purpose by softening spaces. Hard edges can create tension, while gentle curves promote comfort. “Curves soften a room and soften us,” Medina Marenco observes. The design features rounded sofas, sculptural tables, and tactile textiles that subtly influence the emotional atmosphere of each space.

Natural materials, such as linen, timber, and stone, anchor the design with a grounded warmth. These elements do not dominate the space; instead, they create a calming environment. Medina Marenco succinctly captures the essence of Japandi: “They settle you.”

Unlike other design trends that position sustainability as a marketing feature, Japandi embeds it through the honest use of materials. For Medina Marenco, durability is paramount. “We focused on materials that hold their integrity over time,” he states, referencing woods with visible grain and stones with natural variations. This approach emphasizes that true sustainability is rooted in authenticity and respect for natural elements. “A home designed to endure becomes sustainable by nature,” he asserts.

Japandi does not advocate for extreme minimalism but instead celebrates meaningful personal elements. “Japandi isn’t about less, it’s about meaning,” Medina Marenco emphasizes. The design encourages residents to keep items that resonate with them, layering soft neutrals to create warmth rather than emptiness. Even in open-plan layouts, spaces feel inviting and filled with purpose.

Looking ahead, Medina Marenco anticipates an evolution of Japandi that embraces richer and more tactile elements, such as deeper timbers and organic stone. He envisions a lifestyle that embodies serenity, warmth, and tactile richness, evident in features like bonsai thresholds and sculptural bathtubs. This direction signals a shift towards what he describes as “quiet luxury with purpose.”

As Japandi continues to evolve, it heralds a future that is warmer, more grounded, more sculptural, and more intimately connected to nature. The trend reflects a profound understanding of the human experience, emphasizing the importance of creating spaces that nurture and sustain well-being.