8 inspiring Japanese concepts to incorporate into your interior design

Many of us are looking for more clarity, meaning, and peace in our everyday lives.

Japanese philosophy of life offers surprisingly practical tools for just that – and this wisdom is not limited to Eastern culture.

When we combine them with Finnish and Nordic aesthetics, we gain powerful ways to face life's challenges and create a balanced everyday life.

Here are eight inspiring Japanese concepts that you can easily incorporate into your Nordic interior design, lifestyle, and everyday life.

1. Ikigai – The meaning of life in everyday choices

Ikigai means a reason to wake up in the morning – a purpose in one's life. It arises from where passion, expertise and need meet.

An example of how you can implement Ikigai in your everyday life: Create a place at home where you can do exactly what you love – whether it's painting, reading or crafts. Even a small corner of your home painted in an atmospheric color where you feel like you're in just the right place can serve as a base for your ikigai.

2. Kaizen – Small steps towards improvement

Kaizen means continuous improvement – ​​not big leaps, but small steps of improvement every day.

An example of how you can implement Kaizen in your everyday life: Don't stress about your home not always being "perfect". Paint one chair or drawer at a time, change the curtains for spring, or organize one shelf at a time. This way, your home decor and life will evolve gently but surely.

3. Hara Hachi Bu – Moderation and balance

Hara hachi bu is an Okinawan saying that means "eat until you are 80% full." It describes the philosophy of moderation.

An example of how to implement the HaraHachi Bu philosophy and minimalism in your everyday life: Your home doesn't have to be full of stuff or trends. Choose only the objects and colors that really bring joy - this way you maintain clarity and breathability - moderation - in the space, just like on the dining table.

4. Ganbaru – Trying is already a victory

Ganbaru means perseverance and effort – not perfectionism, but the courage to do your best.

An example of how you implement Ganbaru in your everyday life:
Dare to start, to pick up a brush yourself, even if you're not a "professional". Frenchic's user-friendly products support exactly this: do it yourself, in your own way, for yourself.

5. Wabi Sabi – The Aesthetic of Imperfection

Wabi sabi is beauty in imperfection, the patina of time, and natural wear and tear.

An example of how to implement Wabi Sabi in your interior design:
Preserve old, well-worn furniture and update it by lightly painting it to match your interior. The rustic, worn surface, the beauty of the old, is part of the story – and that's what makes your home authentic and soulful.

6. Kakeibo – Conscious spending

Kakeibo is a Japanese way of managing your finances in writing. It helps you understand where your money is going and what you value.

An example of how you can incorporate the Kakeibo technique into your everyday life:
In interior design, this means being thoughtful: invest less but in better quality. For example, invest in durable paints, timeless furniture and natural materials. Implement budget-conscious interior design, recycle and renew old things. You don't always have to buy new.

7. Shoshin – Beginner's Mind

Shoshin means "beginner's mind" – curiosity, openness, and the joy of learning.

An example of how you can implement Shoshin in your everyday life:
Approach interior design with a sense of playfulness and be open to trying new things, learning new techniques, experimenting and testing. Feel free to try new shades, even on a small surface – the Frenchic 250ml small paint can is the perfect way to start. Experience the joy of discovery and success!

8. Shinrin Yoku – Forest bathing without the forest

Shinrin yoku, or forest bathing, means immersing yourself in the peace of nature with all your senses.

An example of how you implement Shinrin Yoku in your everyday life:
Bring nature into your home: use green interior colors, natural tones, wooden materials, and natural light. Open a window, bring in fresh, fragrant branches – and take a deep breath: your forest bath is ready.

A quiet force in the midst of everyday life

With these eight Japanese concepts, you can create more peace, beauty, and purpose in your home—with small, thoughtful actions.

They combine something that also resonates deeply in Finnish aesthetics: respect for nature, simplicity, and the feeling of home as a place where you can be yourself.

Get inspired and experiment – ​​even one idea at a time.

Frenchic Paint gives you bold colors and accompanies you on your journey towards a truly unique life.

Make room for bold home dreams!