by Vivian Garzon

The Best Sinks, Taps & Finishes for a Japandi Style Kitchen

The Best Sinks, Taps & Finishes for a Japandi Style Kitchen

A Japandi kitchen is where Japanese minimalism meets Scandinavian design and warmth to create a space that’s simple, functional, and inviting. The goal is to keep your kitchen space clean and clutter-free, while using natural materials and high-quality finishes that feel effortless and timeless.

Your sink, tapware, and finishes play a big part in bringing this minimalist design look together. Whether you’re designing a Japandi-inspired kitchen from scratch or just making a few thoughtful updates, here’s some kitchen inspiration to help you achieve the look. 

Choosing the Right Sink for a Japandi Kitchen

A well-chosen sink can make all the difference in a Japandi kitchen design. You should shop for a kitchen sink that’s functional, but also focuses on craftsmanship, clean lines, and natural elements that fit seamlessly into the space.

If you love bold contrast…

A black kitchen sink is an easy way to add depth without disrupting the minimalist aesthetic. It pairs beautifully with light stone countertops or natural wood cabinetry, creating a striking but balanced look.

If you want an organic, textured look…

A granite sink brings a subtle, wabi-sabi feel to your kitchen. The stone texture adds depth without feeling harsh, blending seamlessly with soft neutral colours and Scandinavian styles.

A granite sink paired with wooden accents is the perfect way to create a Japandi style kitchen.

If you prefer a light, airy feel…

A white sink keeps things fresh and bright. It works particularly well in small kitchens where you want to create the illusion of more space while keeping the look clutter-free.

The Best Tapware for a Japandi Style Kitchen

Taps might seem like a small detail, but in Japandi design, they matter. The goal is to find something sleek and simple that enhances the space without drawing too much attention.

If you want a modern, high-contrast look…

Black tapware is a must for many Japandi kitchens. It’s a great way to introduce clean lines and contrast against soft, muted tones.

Black tapware is an easy way to incorporate Japandi design elements into your kitchen. 

Pair it with a black sink for a seamless, monochrome moment, or use it as a bold accent against light countertops.

If you prefer a softer finish…

Matte white or brushed nickel taps blend more subtly into Scandinavian-inspired kitchens. They work beautifully with light oak cabinetry and natural elements, keeping the space feeling soft and organic.

Cabinetry, Countertops, and More

With a Japandi-inspired kitchen, it’s all about thoughtful details. Every material, finish, and colour choice should work together to create a space that feels intentional, warm, and functional.

Keep Cabinet Simple and Natural

Flat-panel kitchen cabinets in natural wood are a staple in Japandi kitchen ideas. If you want a more modern touch, opt for handleless designs or go for wooden cabinet handles to add warmth and Scandinavian aesthetics.

Simple, wooden panelling is very popular with Japandi kitchens

Stick to Organic Countertop Textures

The best countertops for a Japandi kitchen are smooth but not overly polished. Think light stone, soft concrete, or matte quartz – materials that feel timeless and understated.

Go for Lighting with a Soft, Warm Ambience

Harsh lighting can ruin the calming feel of a Japandi kitchen. A pendant light over the kitchen island in a neutral or natural finish (rattan, wood, or matte ceramic) helps soften the space.

Thoughtful lighting that’s moody and ambient is an easy way to add Japandi elements to your kitchen. 

Create Your Japandi Kitchen with Buildmat

Designing a Japandi kitchen is about creating a space that feels good to live in. Whether it’s a black kitchen sink for contrast, a granite sink for a natural touch, or wooden cabinet handles to add warmth, the right materials will bring everything together.

Explore the Buildmat’s curated collections today and start creating a kitchen that’s simple, functional, and beautifully Japandi.