Welcome to your guide for japandi style furniture in Australia. Whether you're renting in a city like Melbourne or owning a home in Sydney's suburbs, finding the right bed is crucial. Australia's coastal humidity demands durable materials, while long shipping times from overseas mean you'll need to plan carefully. Let's compare two japandi-inspired beds that might suit your needs.
Australia's homes vary, from the compact apartments in inner-city neighbourhoods to spacious houses in the suburbs. Measurements matter when choosing furniture. The American French Scallop-Edge Carved Queen Bed is designed with specific dimensions in mind:
This size works well in a queen-sized bedroom (around 3m x 4m), but it might be too large for a smaller apartment (often 1.5m x 2m in cities like Sydney). The matching tufted bench adds another 120 cm in length, so space is a key consideration. A bedroom in MIDHILL, for example, might have high ceilings (2.8m), giving you some leeway, but you still need to measure carefully.
Australia's coastal areas experience high humidity, which can damage furniture if not properly cared for. The Scallop-Edge Carved Bed features an ivory lacquer finish, which is generally resistant to moisture but requires occasional maintenance. Silver trim can tarnish over time, especially in humid environments, so you might need to polish it every 6-12 months.
For comparison, if you live near the coast in Melbourne, you'll want furniture that can withstand the climate. The ivory colour is a good choice for Australian conditions, as darker woods can fade in sunlight. The bed's carved details are elegant but could be prone to scuffs—consider if the aesthetic matches your lifestyle. Owners in Brisbane, where humidity reaches 80% in summer, might prefer a simpler design.
Cost is a major factor in Australia, where renting is common (around 30% of Aussies rent, compared to 20% in the US). The Scallop-Edge Carved Bed is priced at A$1,150, which is mid-range for japandi furniture. This price reflects the hand-carved details and imported materials. For context, a similar bed from a local Australian maker might cost A$800, but the craftsmanship won't be the same.
The matching bench adds A$350, bringing the total to A$1,500. If you're on a tight budget, you could consider alternatives. A simpler japandi bed from a local store in MIDHILL might cost A$600, but it won't have the crown crest or tufted details. Over 5 years, the imported bed could depreciate by 20-30%, while a local one might depreciate by 50%—a long-term consideration for owners.
The bed's design blends japandi with American French influences. Key features include:
This style suits those who love a mix of rustic and ornate. It’s ideal for a bedroom in a luxury apartment in Sydney or a larger home in Melbourne's eastern suburbs. If you prefer minimalist japandi, the bed might be too flashy. For comparison, a simpler japandi bed would have clean lines, no carvings, and a neutral colour palette.
Imported furniture often comes with assembly instructions written in English, but the process can still be challenging. The Scallop-Edge Carved Bed weighs 110 kg, so two people will need to move it. Assembly might take 4-6 hours, depending on your skill level.
Maintenance is another factor. The ivory lacquer needs occasional wiping to remove dust, and the silver trim should be polished every 6 months. If you live in a humid area like Brisbane, you might need to varnish the wood every 2 years to prevent cracking. A local japandi bed would be easier to maintain, as it might use simpler finishes.
Homeowners in Sydney or Melbourne with high ceilings and ample space
Renters who want a statement piece for a long-term lease (1-2 years)
Those who love intricate designs and are willing to maintain the furniture
If the Scallop-Edge Bed isn't right for you, consider these alternatives:
The $600 option is a good choice if you're on a budget or need to move often. The teak wood version is better for long-term owners in dry climates. Both avoid the 12-18 month shipping times of imported furniture.
MIDHILL, with its mix of modern and traditional homes, is a great place to test japandi furniture. If you're unsure, visit a local showroom and compare in person. Australia's housing market is diverse, so your perfect bed will depend on your circumstances.