Design styles aren’t just about how a room looks - they shape how a space feels, how you move through it, and how you live in it. And in New Zealand, two aesthetics tend to rise above the rest: Japandi and NZ Coastal.
Both celebrate natural timbers, calm interiors and timeless design. But the moods they create? Completely different.
Think of this as your quick, friendly guide to understanding the difference, plus a few Meluka pieces that bring each style together beautifully.
Quick Definitions
Japandi Style
A balance of Japanese minimalism and Scandinavian warmth. It’s calm, quiet, and intentional. Think warm timbers, clean lines, handcrafted details, and a muted palette of neutrals and charcoal. Nothing is loud; everything has purpose.
NZ Coastal Style
Inspired by Aotearoa summers, salt air, and sunshine. It’s relaxed, breezy, and effortlessly comfortable. Light oak, linens, gentle curves, and a palette of whites, sands and soft ocean tones. The home version of taking your shoes off at the door.
Japandi vs NZ Coastal – Comparison Table
| Feature | Japandi | NZ Coastal |
|---|---|---|
| Colour Palette | Warm neutrals, charcoal, natural timber tones | Whites, sands, sea-foam, pale blues |
| Materials | Solid timber, stone, matte finishes, ceramics | Light oak, rattan, linen, woven textures |
| Lines & Shapes | Clean, minimal, structured lines | Organic, curved, relaxed silhouettes |
| Texture | Smooth, refined, subtle | Soft, breezy, beach-inspired |
| Mood | Calm, meditative, intentional | Light, airy, relaxed |
| Styling Philosophy | “Less is more” – curated simplicity | Layered comfort and natural ease |
| Best For | Architectural homes, quiet spaces | Sunlit rooms, open-plan living |
| Maintenance | Low maintenance, clutter-free | Requires gentle care due to soft fabrics |
| Works With | Neutrals, black accents, warm timber | Natural light, coastal colours, airy fabrics |
| Overall Feel | Balanced, harmonious, purposeful | Fresh, breezy, casual |
How to Choose Between the Two Styles
Choosing a style is less about the trend and more about how you live.
Choose Japandi if…
You love order, clean lines and a peaceful retreat. Your home has darker floors, architectural details, or warm timber joinery.
Choose NZ Coastal if…
You want softness, light, and comfort. Your space gets good natural light, or you’re craving that breezy summer-house feeling year-round.
Or choose both.
Many NZ homes now blend the depth of Japandi with the softness of Coastal - warm timbers + airy linens = a beautifully balanced hybrid aesthetic.
Japandi: Essential Meluka Pieces
Japandi interiors celebrate craftsmanship, natural materials, and purposeful design – principles that align perfectly with Meluka’s New Zealand-made and thoughtfully designed pieces.
Best Picks
Chia Coffee Table – A low, minimalist timber coffee table with warm grain and simple form – a perfect anchor for Japandi living zones that prioritize calm and balance.
SIDEboy Timber Cabinet – Clean-lined storage with a subtle profile to keep spaces uncluttered, while showcasing fine timber craftsmanship.
Ace Bench / Ottoman with Storage – A versatile seating accent that doubles as handy storage, adding purposeful utility with a refined silhouette.
Bookshelves – Open timber shelving brings warmth and order, keeping décor minimal and materiality at the forefront.
NZ Coastal: Essential Meluka Pieces
NZ Coastal style is all about relaxed comfort, natural textures, and an inviting atmosphere – qualities that Meluka’s lighter timber tones and organic designs beautifully support.
Best Picks
Chia Coffee Table– Its light timber finish and simple structure keep rooms feeling open and breezy – ideal for coastal interiors.
Jordan Ottoman with Storage – A soft, upholstered ottoman that adds casual comfort while offering hidden storage — great for relaxed coastal living areas.
Hollis Ottoman – Smaller and versatile, perfect as a footrest or extra seat with a laid-back feel that complements easygoing decor.
Timber Bookshelves – A natural accent that brings texture and laid-back organisation – ideal for displaying coastal-inspired books and décor.
FAQs About Japandi and NZ Coastal Style
What’s the biggest difference between Japandi and Coastal?
Japandi is structured and intentional; Coastal is bright, breezy and relaxed.
Can I mix them?
Definitely. Warm timber + soft linens is a beautiful and very common NZ hybrid.
Which style suits small homes?
Japandi - it loves simplicity, negative space, and multipurpose furniture.
Is Coastal only for beach houses?
Nope - it works anywhere you want more light, softness and warmth.
Which style lasts the longest?
Both stand the test of time, especially when built around solid, NZ-made timber furniture.
Choosing Your Home’s Signature Style
Whether you lean toward Japandi calm or Coastal comfort, your furniture sets the tone. Meluka’s handcrafted timber pieces are designed to sit comfortably in either aesthetic - timeless, versatile, and made right here in Aotearoa.
Browse the collection and start shaping a home that feels as good as it looks.
Leave a comment (all fields required)