The brief was to create a calm, restorative home for a young family with two daughters and busy careers. The homeowners wanted the space to feel like a retreat from their fast paced days, somewhere that feels quieter and more relaxed the moment they step inside. Inspired by the ease of their past holidays, they were drawn to a Japandi approach. Light natural materials, soft tones and uncluttered spaces help the home feel warm and effortless rather than styled or formal. The design also needed to support family life, allowing the children to play and create while keeping everyone connected in shared spaces. 

One challenge was balancing openness with the realities of family life. The living area needed to accommodate both relaxation and the children’s creative activities without feeling messy or chaotic. Another consideration was designing storage that could quietly manage everyday clutter, especially as the homeowners had different habits when it came to organisation. The space also needed to remain calm and cohesive while being durable enough for an active household with young children.

Light toned woods were used throughout the home to introduce warmth while maintaining the airy Japandi feel. Soft whites, sandy beiges and muted neutrals keep the spaces bright and relaxed, helping the home feel open and sunlit. Durable laminates and easy to maintain surfaces were selected for cabinetry and high use areas so the home can age well with the family. Subtle wood grains and gentle textures add depth while keeping the palette calm and cohesive.

Team:

Architects: Intheory Design

Photographer: mesahaus