These terms have been used interchangably to describe minimalist interiors locally. In generally, any interior that has elements of light wood and white walls can be classified as either, however erroneously that might be.

Whilst there are similarities stylistically, the origins of the two design styles couldn’t be any more different. But are there actually any visual differences?

Origins of Scandinavian Interior Design

Believe it or not, this is a design movement that only emerged onto the mainstream in the early 20th century. It utilises stereotypical Nordic traits, such as simplicity, minimalism and functionality.

The Scandinavians also opted to use locally-sourced materials in the fabrication of their spaces, whilst also keeping into account their relative lack of natural lighting throughout the year.

This means spatial design that prioritises a sense of space and purpose, one that allows them to connect to their surrounds even during long periods kept indoors. As such, you’d find earthy tones like organic browns, yellows and greens, paired with white walls and light-coloured woods (think Pine).

What Exactly is Muji Design?

Technically, there’s no such thing as ‘Muji’ Design. The famous lifestyle chain adopts a minimalistic approach to their products, channeling the ethos of the Japanese Zen religion.

As with Scandinavian design, this ideology encourages you to declutter, believing that less, is more. Zen design allows for more leeway in terms of materials used, as long as function is prioritised.

Traditionally, flashy colours are frowned upon. Opt instead for earthy tones, such as greys, off-whites or even a nice shade of olive green! The Japanese would also use bamboo in the construction of their spaces, as it is an abundant material.

Same Same, but Different

Whilst the design styles have massive overlap, traditionally speaking, there are very subtle differences. Where the Nordics create spaces harmonous with nature, the Japanese recognise the need to balance functionality and design.

Which is increasingly becoming an approach that home owners the world over are opting to do, straddling the line between usability and aesthetics. Probably why Marie Kondo got as popular as she did.

In any case, a lot of the designs proposed by local designers probably fall into the wider umbrella of the Japandi Interior Design style, which marries the two similar design trends, and has since come to represent any pale/natural coloured space paired with a light wood floor!

Image Credit: freepik, Ngieng Spatial Design, re.design interior studio

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