The Rise of Japanese-Inspired Interiors: Why Calm, Craft, and Simplicity Are Redefining Modern Design

Schemes that incorporate details from Japan's landscape and culture possess a timeless beauty – think fine silks, trailing cherry blossoms, and delicate screen prints.

From the soft elegance of cherry blossom motifs to the quiet luxury of fine silks and artisanal screen prints, this interior design style has an enduring appeal that lies in its ability to evoke both simplicity and sophistication. Whether interpreted through minimalist silhouettes, organic textures, or poetic wall coverings, Japanese influences are finding fresh expression in today’s interiors.

In this visual edit, we explore how designers and brands are embracing this refined sensibility, offering a modern take on a look that feels both calming and deeply considered.

Arboreal repeat

Depicting an array of native trees and plants, from weeping willow to cherry blossom, interspersed with calligraphy that resembles poetic waves, this wallpaper is a showcase of Japanese symbolism and texture.

Printed on a brushed straw ground and available in four colourways, including a metallic gold, this design by Casamance beautifully complements the organic movement of Arabescato marble and natural wood as shown here.

By the light of the moon

The beauty of the natural world and the changing seasons are recurring themes in Japanese art, as are space and light, all of which are celebrated in de Gournay’s Byōbu collection. Named after Japan’s harvest moon festival, this silk wallcovering features feathery grasses and wildflowers illuminated by glowing moons.

Celestial calm

With its undulating clouds and floating moons, this design sets the tone for a serene space. Designed by Elisa Defossez, it is pictured in the warm neutral Eclipse colourway, which pairs effortlessly with Japanese-inspired indigo fabrics.

Zen garden

Influenced by the meditative process of sand raking and its curvaceous shapes, this Suna fabric by George Spencer Design features hypnotic abstract patterning. Available in eight soft, earthy shades, it looks fabulous used on seating with simple silhouettes and dark woods

Into the woods

Symbolising longevity in Japanese culture, the soaring pines featured on this wallpaper are a fitting motif for a timeless scheme. It is one of an array of Japanese-inspired designs from Thibaut’s latest collection, Yutori, which references traditional Japanese techniques and showcases natural materials.

Time to shine

Inspired by a Japanese screen featuring hand-painted pampas grass, this Haiku fabric, on the walls, is a jacquard of silk, wool and cotton. It is paired with a headboard in Kyoto – a fabric with embroidered cordwork reminiscent of Japanese basketry.

Eternal spring

A fine Edo painting inspired this design, which captures the ephemeral beauty of Japan’s iconic cherry blossoms. Earthy tones of paprika, terracotta, olive, and brown bring comforting warmth perfect for bedroom ideas. Pair with a velvet headboard and cocooning cream curtains for a scheme of quiet luxury.

Textural blooms

This luxurious velour jacquard fabric elevates simple upholstery into works of art. Featuring trailing cherry blossoms raised in a velvety pile on a cotton satin ground, it comes in four beautiful colourways, from cool blue to glamorous gold.

Our favourite Japanese inspired fabrics

If you’re not planning a full remodel or a full wallpaper transformation, you can still evoke the serenity and balance of Japanese design through smaller touches. From soft lighting to tactile ceramics and natural materials, these pieces capture the essence of the look, no renovation required.

Bring the Look Home

Much of the Japanese aesthetic is, at its core, very similar to minimalism, which strives for the utmost curation through careful balance and precision. Though the Japanese aesthetic is far more reminiscent of warm minimalism, it balances simplicity with texture and depth.