18 IKEA Japandi Hacks and Ideas for a Natural, Cozy Space
IKEA has become a staple in modern homes for its versatility, affordability, and minimalistic design.
If you’re someone who loves the combination of Scandinavian functionality and Japanese simplicity, then Japandi style might be your perfect match.
This blend of natural materials, clean lines, and calming neutral tones creates a serene, cozy, and inviting atmosphere that transforms any room into a retreat.
Let’s dive into 18 IKEA Japandi hacks and ideas that will help you create a peaceful, natural, and cozy space in your home without breaking the bank.
1. Transform a Kallax into a Japandi-Style Storage Piece
One of the most iconic IKEA products is the Kallax shelf unit, and with a little creativity, it can easily fit into a Japandi aesthetic.
Start by keeping the base piece simple — opt for a light wood finish or the natural birch option.
To give it that Japandi feel, avoid overcrowding the shelves.
Instead, focus on simple decor items like minimalist plants, wooden boxes, and neutral-toned ceramics.
Pro tip: Add some soft lighting underneath the shelves to create a warm, inviting glow, which is a key element of the Japandi style.
2. Pair a Hemnes Bed Frame with Soft, Natural Linens
The Hemnes bed frame from IKEA is a great way to introduce natural wood into your bedroom, which is a central feature of Japandi design.
The neutral wood tones complement the simplicity and calmness of the style.
To enhance the look, opt for linen or cotton bedding in calming colors like soft beige, muted grays, or earthy greens.
Adding Japanese-style cushions or a soft throw blanket can also help achieve the cozy, functional, and minimalistic atmosphere that defines Japandi style.
Pro tip: Keep bedding textures natural and layered for that cozy, lived-in feel, without going overboard with too many patterns.
3. Use a Billy Bookcase as a Japandi Room Divider
The Billy bookcase is a flexible and affordable option to create a cozy and functional divider in open-plan spaces.
To keep the Japandi aesthetic, opt for a neutral-colored Billy bookcase and place it in a way that separates the living and dining areas or creates a small reading nook.
Instead of filling every shelf, create balance by leaving empty spaces to let the light flow.
Natural wood accents or plants can be added for a pop of life without compromising the simplicity of the space.
Pro tip: Attach a woven basket to one of the shelves to keep things organized while maintaining a stylish, neutral palette.
4. Reimagine the Lack Side Table with Simple, Wooden Legs
The Lack side table is another IKEA staple that can be easily transformed into a Japandi-inspired piece.
By replacing the standard legs with simple wooden legs in a light or medium finish, you can give this budget-friendly piece a more organic, natural feel.
Stick to simple, functional decor, such as a small vase with a dried flower, a minimalist lamp, or a wooden tray.
This will help the table blend seamlessly into your Japandi living space.
Pro tip: Use a dark-colored tray to contrast with the lighter wood tones and create a sense of balance.
5. Create a Cozy Japandi Corner with the Farlov Armchair
The Farlov armchair is the perfect spot for a Japandi-inspired reading nook.
With its clean lines and simple design, this chair can be dressed up with a neutral-colored cushion, a soft throw, and a low-profile side table.
Add a minimalist floor lamp to create ambient lighting, and keep the rest of the decor light and airy.
You can even place a small, low-lying wooden table next to the chair to hold a plant or books.
Pro tip: Incorporating warm wooden accents around the chair, such as a wooden tray or small side table, will bring a natural element to the space.
6. Style the RÅSKOG Cart for a Japanese-Inspired Tea Station
The RÅSKOG utility cart from IKEA isn’t just for kitchens — it can be a great addition to your Japandi space.
Use it as a minimalist tea station by filling it with matcha bowls, small wooden cups, and your favorite loose-leaf teas.
You can also add a small plant or wooden tray to enhance the natural, cozy feel.
Keep the overall color palette neutral and calm, incorporating earthy tones that align with the Japandi aesthetic.
Pro tip: If you’re looking to add more texture, a woven mat on the bottom shelf can bring in a soft, tactile element.
7. Update Your Malm Dresser with Simple Wooden Knobs
The Malm dresser is another classic IKEA piece that’s perfect for a Japandi makeover.
Instead of the standard metal handles, switch them out for wooden knobs or brass pulls.
This small change instantly transforms the dresser into something more natural and elegant.
You can style the top with minimalist decor, such as a simple lamp, a wooden bowl, and a small plant for that understated beauty characteristic of Japandi style.
Pro tip: Keep the rest of the room’s furniture in a similar color scheme to maintain a cohesive and calming look.
8. Add Japandi Elements to Your Kitchen with the Besta System
The Besta storage system from IKEA is a great way to incorporate sleek, Japandi-inspired storage into your kitchen or dining area.
The modular design allows you to create a clean, minimal space with a neutral aesthetic.
Stick to light wood finishes or white for a fresh, airy feel.
Use wooden trays, stoneware bowls, and ceramic mugs to bring natural textures and materials into your kitchen.
Pro tip: If you have an open shelf in the system, add some minimalist plants or wooden cutting boards for extra texture.
9. Make a Statement with the RANARP Pendant Light
Lighting plays a crucial role in the Japandi aesthetic.
The RANARP pendant light from IKEA has a vintage industrial vibe but can be easily transformed into a Japandi focal point with a few modifications.
Swap out the metal cord for a woven jute or rope cord for a more organic feel.
Place this pendant light above your dining area or in the center of your living room to create a cozy ambiance.
Pro tip: Pair it with soft white bulbs for a warm, inviting glow that matches the Japandi vibe.
10. Upcycle the Fintorp Rail System for a Japanese-inspired Kitchen Organization
The Fintorp rail system is a great way to keep your kitchen organized and stylish.
Hang wooden utensils, small woven baskets, or minimalist dishware from the rail to add some natural texture to your kitchen.
This setup will not only make your kitchen functional but also visually appealing in a very subtle, Japandi-inspired way.
You can also place plants or sustainable containers to help further the organic vibe.
Pro tip: Stick with earth-toned accessories to keep the space grounded and calm.
11. Create a Japandi-Inspired Entryway with the HEMNES Shoe Cabinet
First impressions matter, and your entryway sets the tone for your whole home.
The HEMNES shoe cabinet offers a simple solution for a clutter-free, organized entrance.
To add a Japandi touch, swap out the knobs with wooden handles or keep them minimal.
Neutral-colored baskets or woven storage bins can be added for extra functionality and style.
Finally, place a simple vase with bamboo stalks or a small bonsai tree to bring in some life and natural elements.
Pro tip: Keep the space free of unnecessary clutter, focusing only on the essentials.
12. Use the SÖDERSVIK Sofa to Achieve the Japandi Comfort
The SÖDERSVIK sofa from IKEA offers an understated and elegant look that blends seamlessly with the Japandi style.
With its minimalist shape and soft, neutral colors, this sofa is perfect for creating a cozy and natural living space.
Add wooden side tables, ceramic vases, or minimalist artwork to keep the space serene and welcoming.
Pro tip: Layer soft, natural fabrics like linen or wool for the throw pillows to create a calming, tactile experience.
13. Turn the Ivar Shelving Unit into a Natural Display for Your Plants
The Ivar shelving unit is an IKEA favorite for its versatility.
You can use it to display your favorite plants while maintaining a clean, natural look.
The simple design allows the focus to be on the plants and decorative elements.
Choose low-maintenance plants like snake plants or peace lilies and place them in neutral-toned pots.
Keep your shelves uncluttered by using natural materials, like woven baskets or wooden trays, to store other items.
Pro tip: Incorporate plants of varying heights to create visual interest and balance.
14. Repurpose the SINNERLIG Pendant Light for a Japandi Vibe
The SINNERLIG pendant light is made from natural materials, which makes it a perfect choice for a Japandi-inspired space.
The rattan or bamboo material creates a relaxed, earthy atmosphere while still maintaining a modern edge.
Hang it in your dining area or above your reading nook to enhance the natural, cozy vibe.
Pro tip: Pair it with soft, neutral colors and materials to complete the Japandi look.
15. Upgrade Your Storage with the TRONES Shoe Storage Units
The TRONES shoe storage unit can be a simple yet effective way to add storage to your home, while still keeping things in line with Japandi principles.
These units are sleek, minimalistic, and versatile, and can be used in a variety of spaces beyond just the entryway.
Opt for wooden frames to add a more natural touch or leave them in their original white finish for a crisp, clean look.
Stack them together for extra storage and place minimal decor pieces on top, such as small plants or wooden trays.
Pro tip: If you’re using it in a more visible space, add some small baskets or wooden containers inside the units to keep everything organized and stylish.
16. Decorate with IKEA’s MELLTORP Dining Table for a Simple Japandi Look
The MELLTORP dining table from IKEA is a great option for those who want a functional yet minimalist piece that works well with Japandi design.
The clean, simple lines and neutral tones make it perfect for the natural, cozy vibe.
You can style it with ceramic plates, wooden bowls, and minimalistic flatware. Keep the table setting calm, using soft tones and natural textures.
Pro tip: Use a woven placemat for added texture while keeping the table setting simple.
17. Create a Japandi Workspace with the ALEX Desk and Drawers
The ALEX desk with drawers is the perfect addition to a home office that embraces the Japandi style.
Its sleek lines and ample storage space make it both functional and visually appealing.
Keep the desk organized with minimal items and add a simple ceramic lamp or wooden tray for added warmth and texture.
Neutral, calming colors are key for maintaining the peaceful environment necessary for productivity.
Pro tip: Keep the drawers organized with natural woven baskets to store office supplies without cluttering the surface.
18. Use the RÅSKOG Cart for a Mobile Coffee Station
The RÅSKOG cart can easily double as a stylish coffee station. Keep the design minimalist by using neutral-toned mugs, a small wooden tray, and a coffee grinder.
Add a few plants and wooden utensils for natural charm. The mobility of the cart means it can easily be moved around to create the perfect spot for your morning ritual.
Pro tip: Keep it organized by storing coffee-related items on different levels, adding a little balance to the space.
By following these 18 IKEA Japandi hacks and ideas, you can create a natural, cozy space that fosters peace and serenity.
The key to Japandi design is focusing on simplicity, natural materials, and functionality, and IKEA offers many pieces that can easily be incorporated into this style.
Take your time, experiment with textures and colors, and enjoy the process of transforming your home into a Japandi-inspired haven.
