Kominka: A Traditional Japanese House Comes to America

Giselle Go and Philippe Terrien, co-founders of the Japanese clean beauty brand DamDam, embarked on a search for a tranquil weekend retreat near Tokyo. Their initial criteria included proximity to the city, high privacy, and a mountainside location. After a prolonged search, a friend, Naoko Kawamura, introduced them to a 75-year-old property overlooking the Pacific Ocean and Mount Fuji. The house, initially dilapidated, held historical significance as it was built by American postwar photojournalist Horace Bristol, known for his work on John Steinbeck’s 'Grapes of Wrath' and for magazines like 'Life,' 'Time,' and 'National Geographic' in the 1950s. Recognizing the challenges of renovating such an old property, especially one situated on protected heritage land, the couple enlisted the expertise of Motosuke Mandai of Mandai Architects. Their vision was to revive the house while preserving its past and integrating modern comforts. A significant part of the renovation involved working closely with the local temple that oversees the protected area to ensure all regulations were met. The couple meticulously retained original elements like wood beams, ceilings, and shoji screens. When original features such as the wood floors or the wood-burning stove could not be salvaged, they were replaced with identical materials to maintain the house's authentic character. The entrance to the home functions as both an entryway and a mudroom, where it is customary to remove shoes and don soft house slippers, a Japanese tradition. This space features a Hang-It-All coatrack by Eames for Herman Miller, a stool by Timber Crew, and a washi tray by Craig Ancelowitz, both for DamDam Atelier. Artwork includes a calligraphy on canvas by Mikiko Kayama and a wall sculpture by Yuichiro Kobayashi. The living room, a favorite indoor spot for the couple, boasts an Akari 21A pendant light by Isamu Noguchi, an Archimoon Soft table lamp by Philippe Starck for Flos, and Glo-ball table and floor lamps by Jasper Morrison for Flos. The sofa is an N701 modular model from Ethnicraft, complemented by an Airframe coffee table by David Chipperfield for Cassina. This room offers direct views of the sunset over the sea, with garden-facing windows framing the sofa, and features a wood-burning stove for winter warmth. The dining room serves as a dual-purpose workspace. Original shoji screens provide privacy from the north-side bamboo, while the room opens to sea views on the west. This area includes a Flowerpot Verner Panton 1968 pendant light from &Tradition, Series 7 dining chairs by Arne Jacobsen for Fritz Hansen, and an Airframe dining table by David Chipperfield for Cassina, which was restored with a new walnut-wood top by Timber Crew. Custom shelving by Douguya and an Akari 3x table lamp by Isamu Noguchi further personalize the space, along with washi artwork and a painting by Philippe’s son, James. The kitchen, a beloved space for Philippe, was enlarged by removing an old bathroom, placing it centrally within the home with garden access. To address the lack of natural light, Motosuke Mandai incorporated floor-to-ceiling windows into the traditional ranma (wall panels), creating the illusion of a floating roof and flooding the interiors with sunlight. An engawa, a traditional Japanese hallway, was transformed into a sunroom, enlarged and opened to a seaside deck for sunset aperitifs and gardening activities. This room is furnished with an Akari 1AG table lamp by Isamu Noguchi, an antique rattan table, a vintage lounge chair, and a Malawi chair from Couleur Locale. The decor reflects the multicultural backgrounds of Giselle, who is Filipino, and Philippe, who is French, blending midcentury-modern design, vintage finds, Japanese crafts, and textiles from their travels. The furniture, much of which was crafted by artisans known to them, imbues the home with a personal touch. The only fully enclosed room is the bedroom, which offers a private sanctuary feel, without glass windows on the ranma. The bed frame is by Timber Crew, and the table lamp is the Archimoon Soft by Philippe Starck for Flos. Wood stools designed by Timber Crew for DamDam Atelier complete the room. A large ofuro (bathtub) at the end of the bathroom provides a relaxing space. The interior design blends Japanese architectural elements like sugi-finish floors and preserved pinewood ceilings with a diverse collection of furnishings, embodying an old-world travel museum aesthetic that reflects the owners’ journeys and personal connections. #JapaneseHouse #ZenHideaway #HistoricRenovation #InteriorDesign #TokyoHome #ArchitecturalDesign #MidCenturyModern #MulticulturalDecor #DamDam

Sunny Simmons and Caroline Smith, a husband and wife duo, transformed a former auto body shop in San Francisco into Onsen, a Japanese-inspired bathhouse and restaurant. This ambitious three-year project involved a complete revamp of the space, with the couple even residing in an Airstream inside the automotive building during the renovation period. Sunny, a craft builder, prioritized retaining the original character of the building while integrating modern amenities. He meticulously collected wood over time, which was then used throughout the building, contributing to its unique aesthetic and connection to the past. The aesthetic of Onsen is deeply influenced by Japanese bathhouse culture, yet it incorporates the couple's personal touch and a focus on community. Caroline curated the art that adorns the walls of the treatment rooms and the restaurant, adding a distinct artistic dimension to the space. The bathhouse section of Onsen features six treatment rooms and a communal bathing area. A notable highlight is the cold plunge shower installation, which draws inspiration from steampunk fiction, providing a distinctive and invigorating experience for patrons. Each treatment room within the bathhouse offers a unique environment. One room is a dry sauna constructed entirely from redwood, evoking the feel of a traditional sauna. Another room showcases striking black and white tiles, adding a graphic element to its design. The communal bathing room’s five-head cold shower plunge system exemplifies the blend of traditional inspiration with a unique, artistic interpretation. The walls are further decorated with a collection of bathhouse tickets from various locations around the world, adding to the authentic and global feel of the space. Beyond the bathhouse, Onsen features an intimate, chef-driven restaurant and tearoom at the front of the building. This culinary space offers fresh, seasonal cuisine and tea service, complementing the tranquil and rejuvenating experience of the bathhouse. The owners' commitment extends beyond commercial enterprise to community engagement. On Tuesdays, when the business is closed, Simmons and Smith plan to open their facility to the neighborhood, offering services to those who might not otherwise have access. This initiative reflects their dedication to giving back and fostering a sense of community. The entire transformation, from an industrial auto body shop to a serene Japanese-inspired haven, showcases a blend of historical preservation, modern design, and community spirit. #ZenBathhouse #JapaneseDesign #SanFrancisco #AdaptiveReuse #InteriorDesign #CommunitySpace #CraftBuilding #Wellness

Kenzo Takada, a prominent fashion designer known for vibrant prints, bold colors, and unique silhouettes, profoundly influenced the fashion industry by integrating Japanese elements into Western aesthetics. His brand, Kenzo, which he founded and later sold to LVMH in 1993, became a global phenomenon. Following his departure from the active fashion scene, Takada redirected his creative talents towards home interior design, launching his furniture label K-3 less than a year before his passing in October 2020 due to Covid-19 complications. His K-3 collection continued his signature blend of Eastern and Western design principles, characterized by a rich use of color and prints. In stark contrast to the colorful exuberance of his fashion and furniture designs, Takada's personal residence in Paris, known as the Kenzo House, exhibits a serene and Zen-like aesthetic. This 13,778 square-foot home, located in an 18th-century residential building in the Bastille district, was initially built by Takada in 1993 and later redesigned by architect Kengo Kuma in 2018. The exterior of the four-story house features natural materials such as cedar shingles, teak, and clay, contributing to its tranquil and textured facade. A central feature of the home is an interior courtyard designed as a traditional Japanese garden. This garden includes a stone pond inhabited by nishiki carp and koi fish, surrounded by a variety of Japanese flora, including cherry and maple trees, bamboo, junipers, lichens, and mosses. Kuma's redesign ensured that each room of the house offered views of this natural sanctuary, creating a seamless connection between the indoor and outdoor spaces. The garden is further enhanced by carefully placed rocks and miniature waterfalls, replicating a classic Japanese landscape. Adjacent to the garden is a Japanese pavilion that houses a traditional tea ceremony room. This room is authentically appointed with tatami mats and shoji sliding doors, which can be opened to provide an unobstructed view of the koi pond. Inside the main house, the aesthetic continues with extensive use of wood. French oak louvres, beams, and floors maintain consistency with the original wooden finishes. An engawa, a traditional Japanese exterior corridor, featuring a wooden lattice, replaced an indoor lap pool, further emphasizing the home's Japanese design influences. The residence is comprehensively equipped with modern amenities and ample living spaces. It features four bedrooms, each with an en suite bathroom and a dedicated dressing room, ensuring privacy and comfort for residents and guests. Additional facilities include a music room, a study, a fitness room, and an elevator. The property also provides practical accommodations with three self-contained studio apartments for staff and two private parking spaces. This thoughtful integration of Japanese aesthetics with contemporary living defines Kenzo Takada's personal Parisian home as a unique and tranquil retreat. #InteriorDesign #HomeTour #FashionDesigner #JapaneseAesthetics #ParisHome #KengoKuma #ZenLiving #ArchitecturalDesign

A townhome in Lewes has been transformed into a mindfulness retreat, drawing inspiration from Japanese architecture and aesthetics. The project, designed by Scott Edmonston, principal of Millville-based SEA Studio Architects, in collaboration with Camenisch Company Inc., sought to create a serene escape for a bachelor who desired a quiet space for writing, away from his primary residence in Manhattan, while also accommodating occasional family visits. The design implicitly embraces several Japanese principles, including *wabi-sabi*, which celebrates the beauty of transience and imperfection; *shibui*, emphasizing simplicity, subtlety, and economy of line; and *miyabi*, denoting refinement and polish. These concepts were expertly integrated by the project’s contractor, Milton’s Camenisch Company. The homeowner's desire for a mindful retreat, coupled with the structural limitations—an HOA mandate against external or window configuration changes—led to a design that maximized internal flexibility and aesthetic coherence. The two-story home, an award winner at the 2022 AIA Delaware, functions to promote mental clarity and a healthy lifestyle, encouraging occupants to slow down and immerse themselves in their surroundings. This is achieved through thoughtful architectural choices that foster a sense of calm and remove daily stressors. Key design elements include custom built-in furniture, such as a sofa in the living room and cabinetry in the kitchen and primary bedroom, fabricated by Alleghany Woodworks. The kitchen features vertical-grain white oak cabinetry with concealed hardware and Pental Quartz countertops and backsplash, designed to seamlessly integrate into the living space and even disappear when not in use. Throughout the home, the flooring is white oak with a custom finish. Light plays a pivotal role in the design, with natural illumination flooding the spaces. The existing clerestory windows are augmented by a system of Japanese *shoji* screens, built by Brian Holcombe Woodworker. These screens not only enhance the aesthetic but also provide flexibility in partitioning space, allowing small areas to feel larger and offering privacy when needed, particularly in the 130-square-foot “bunk room” which can adapt to host varying numbers of guests. The primary bathroom is a standout feature, designed as an open-style wet room with built-in seating, multiple shower fixtures, and a deep soaking tub from Signature Hardware. This space evokes the tranquility of Japanese *onsens*. The materials used, such as Riad Tile in Zellige natural white for walls and Tilebar’s Bronx Collection for flooring, contribute to the serene ambiance. The interior is further curated with select furniture and art, including a Japanese banner that translates to “clear skies for 1,000 miles,” symbolizing both the views of the nearby bay and the clarity of mind the home aims to inspire. #JapaneseDesign #TownhomeLiving #MindfulnessRetreat #CoastalHome #InteriorArchitecture #CustomBuiltIns #ShojiScreens #WabiSabi #Shibui

SHED Architecture & Design has completed the Cupertino Courtyard House in a quiet Cupertino, California neighborhood. The residence, situated near Apple’s campus and the city’s Eichler district, blends local architectural heritage with a modern aesthetic, standing apart from its Mission and Spanish Colonial-style surroundings. The exterior features white stucco landscape walls, referencing Mediterranean vernacular, combined with a dark, charred-wood upper volume clad in shou sugi ban, presenting a contemporary sensibility. The entry sequence begins with a slatted wood gate, leading to a secluded courtyard and a recessed “genkan,” a traditional Japanese threshold for removing shoes. The interior of the home is organized around a series of courtyards, which frame views of the outdoors and are integrated into the living spaces through floor-to-ceiling glass doors. This design approach blurs the boundaries between indoor and outdoor environments, allowing natural light to illuminate the plaster walls and oak finishes throughout the day. The main living areas, including the living, dining, and kitchen, are designed as an open-plan space along the rear of the property. Custom white oak built-ins provide both storage and seating, with a bench integrated into the kitchen island to create an informal gathering spot. The material palette emphasizes warmth and natural tactility, featuring clay plaster, wood, and slate. These materials introduce an earthy softness that contrasts with the home’s geometric black and white exterior. An “engawa,” a Japanese-style covered porch, extends the living spaces outdoors, offering a tranquil area for reflection. A central skylit stairwell functions as a sculptural element, connecting the two floors. Beyond its aesthetic role, it facilitates passive ventilation, channeling light and air while discreetly housing mechanical systems. On the second floor, the layout is efficiently designed to maximize space. The primary suite includes a slate-lined wet room and a cedar soaking tub, while the children’s rooms incorporate playful lofts for rest and imaginative play. Sustainability was a core principle in the home’s design and construction. The Cupertino Courtyard House exceeds net-zero energy standards, generating more power than it consumes through a rooftop solar array. It incorporates high-efficiency systems, such as heat pump HVAC and water heating, along with energy recovery ventilation. Advanced framing techniques and airtight insulation further contribute to minimizing waste and enhancing energy performance. Every fixture, material, and assembly was chosen for its longevity and environmental impact, reflecting a commitment to both aesthetic quality and sustainable living. #CaliforniaArchitecture #CourtyardHouse #JapaneseInspiredDesign #ModernHome #SustainableArchitecture #NetZeroEnergy #SHEDArchitectureAndDesign #InteriorDesign #ResidentialArchitecture

The United States offers a variety of destinations that capture the essence of Japanese culture, architecture, and natural beauty, providing an immersive experience without requiring international travel. These locations showcase the harmonious blend of ancient traditions and modern influences characteristic of Japan. From serene gardens to therapeutic spas and cultural centers, these American sites offer a unique opportunity to explore Japanese aesthetics and practices domestically. One such destination is the Shoji Spa and Retreat in Asheville, North Carolina. Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, this Japanese-inspired wellness retreat provides a full immersion into Japanese culture. It features traditional Japanese aesthetics, including shoji screens and bamboo accents, alongside Japanese-style outdoor hot tubs, saunas, and baths. Visitors can indulge in Japanese-inspired therapies like aromatherapy and shiatsu massage, fostering a meditative environment amidst nature. The retreat also offers rustic lodging options for a complete experience of tranquility. The best times to visit are year-round for relaxation and during the fall for the vibrant foliage, with prices ranging from $90 to $180 for soak therapy, $150 to $272 for massage therapy, and lodging from $230 per night. The Japanese Garden in Portland, Oregon, is recognized as one of the most authentic Japanese gardens outside of Japan. It provides a serene escape with stunning views of Mount Hood, maintaining the integrity of Japanese garden traditions. The garden features various styles, such as the Strolling Pond Garden, Tea Garden, and Flat Garden, all meticulously landscaped with bonsai trees and koi ponds. Guests can partake in Japanese tea ceremonies and calligraphy workshops or simply enjoy the peaceful ambiance. Optimal visiting periods are autumn for changing leaves and spring for cherry blossoms, magnolias, azaleas, wisteria, and camellias. Admission costs are $21.95 for adults, with discounts for seniors, students, and youth, and free entry for children aged five and under. Ten Thousand Waves Spa and Resort in Santa Fe, New Mexico, offers another Japanese cultural immersion. Designed to emulate an onsen village in Japan, this resort provides private hot tub suites, shiatsu massage, skincare therapy, and an Izakaya restaurant. Its Japanese-style architecture, stone pathways, and serene gardens have made it a top attraction since 1981, allowing visitors to experience Japan's healing traditions. The resort is open year-round, with spa packages costing between $314 and $388, and lodging starting from $357 per night. The Missouri Botanical Garden in St. Louis is home to the Seiwa-en Garden, one of the largest Japanese gardens in America, meaning "garden of pure, clear harmony and peace." This expansive garden showcases traditional Japanese design, featuring a Japanese Teahouse, a Zen garden, a bamboo grove, koi ponds, stone lanterns, and winding pathways. It also hosts Japanese festivals and tea ceremonies, offering a comprehensive cultural experience. The best times to visit are fall for Japanese maples and spring for cherry blossoms. General admission for adults is $16, with special rates for St. Louis residents and seniors, and free for members and children under 13. The Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens in Delray Beach, Florida, honors a century-old connection between Japan and South Florida. The museum presents Japanese art, historical displays, and artifacts, including exhibits like "Musha-Ningyo: Avatars of the Samurai Spirit," featuring traditional Japanese dolls. The museum also organizes cultural events and workshops for hands-on experiences. Its six distinct gardens, or Roji-en, serve as living exhibits, complementing the museum's offerings. The best time to visit is year-round, particularly in February for Orchid Weekend. Admission is $16 for adults, with discounts for seniors, military personnel, college students, and children, and free for Morikami members and children under five. Finally, the Byodo-In Temple on Oahu, Hawaii, is a replica of a 900-year-old Buddhist temple in Uji, Japan. Situated in the Valley of the Temples Memorial Park at the foot of the Ko’olau Mountains, this non-denominational Buddhist temple features intricate woodwork, a phoenix-shaped roof, and a large Amida Buddha statue. Visitors can participate in Japanese customs such as ringing the temple bell for good luck, exploring Japanese gardens, koi ponds, and meditation areas. The temple offers a spiritual and culturally rich experience year-round. Admission is $5 for adults, with reduced rates for seniors and children, and free for children under two. These locations provide diverse settings for experiencing Japanese culture within the United States, from the therapeutic tranquility of spas and the artistic serenity of gardens to historical reflections in museums and spiritual retreats. They offer a rich tapestry of experiences, making Japanese culture accessible to a broader audience. #JapaneseCulture #TravelDestinations #UnitedStates #Gardens #Spas #CulturalImmersion #BuddhistTemple #Tourism #USA

Ryuji Yamashita Architects has designed a two-story residence in Hokkaido, Japan, for a family with four children, emphasizing connection and interaction among siblings while still providing individual private spaces. The design incorporates open floor layouts and timber accents, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. A central playroom on the first floor serves as the primary meeting point, linking all four children's rooms. This common area is intentionally designed to foster a sense of togetherness, preventing the potential isolation that separate private rooms might otherwise create. To enhance the playful nature of the space, a 70 cm height difference exists between the bedrooms and the common playroom, necessitating steps at each entry point from the ground floor and from each child's room. The architect integrated thoughtful features to encourage ongoing interaction. A large window provides ample natural light to the playroom, and two types of openings further reinforce familial bonds. Glass tiles are strategically placed within the wooden flooring outside the private rooms, creating a visual connection between the two floors and allowing light to filter through. Additionally, each child's room features a small window positioned just above their desk. When these windows are open, the first floor transforms into a large, integrated study area, facilitating direct interaction and collaboration among the siblings. This innovative design offers a flexible environment that adapts to the children's needs for both privacy and shared experiences. The 'With four children' house, completed in October 2021, measures 69.56 sqm for the building area and 125.65 sqm for the total floor area. The project was constructed by Kobayashi Shoten Co., Ltd, with photography by Ikuya Sasaki. This architectural approach by Ryuji Yamashita aims to transcend the traditional binary of private versus large rooms or individual versus group settings. Instead, it seeks to establish a dynamic space where family members can connect through various senses of distance, offering a balance between personal retreat and collective engagement. The design prioritizes the development of strong sibling relationships through carefully considered architectural elements that promote both visual and interactive connectivity within the home. #RyujiYamashitaArchitects #JapaneseArchitecture #FamilyHomeDesign #SiblingBonds #PlayroomDesign #OpenConceptLiving #TimberAccents #Hokkaido #ResidentialArchitecture

This article highlights the comprehensive renovation of a contemporary Bay Area home, transformed by interior designer Noz Nozawa of Noz Design into a Japanese-inspired sanctuary. The project, initially a cosmetic update of the kitchen and bathrooms, escalated into a full gut renovation of the 4,000-square-foot residence. The homeowners, a young family, sought a visually tranquil, modern, and functional living space, drawing inspiration from the wife's Japanese upbringing. While significant structural changes were minimal, such as the addition of a Jack and Jill bathroom, nearly every aspect of the house was updated, including a new roof, exterior roller shades, and skylights. Nozawa adopted a restrained, material-focused palette to achieve an atmosphere of calm. She collaborated with Brimer Workshops to custom-design cabinetry and built-ins throughout the home. These pieces primarily utilized local, sustainably sourced wood varieties like silvered oak, gray elm, and red elm, ingeniously concealing clutter behind rich wooden surfaces. For artistic accents, Caroline Lizarraga Decorative Painting contributed a moody mural for the powder room, evoking San Francisco's city lights at night. The design incorporated features to support the family's entertaining needs. The living area was conceptualized with flexible seating arrangements, including a Flexform sectional, a daybed, and Ligne Roset swivel chairs. This setup allows guests to engage with hosts in the open kitchen or enjoy the panoramic city views. A transparent Da Vinci fireplace was chosen specifically to maintain unobstructed vistas. A unique request involved accommodating a collection of approximately 300 wine glasses for entertaining. Nozawa ingeniously integrated storage for about 150 glasses within kitchen drawers and dining area cabinetry, exemplifying the design's commitment to minimizing visual clutter. Further efforts to reduce clutter included wall-height cabinets crafted from salvaged red elm to house the family's guitar collection. To avoid traditional curtains in the window-heavy interior, a motorized exterior shade system from Lutron, controllable via smartphones, was installed for privacy and sun protection. Japanese cultural influences are subtly woven throughout the home, extending beyond the minimalist aesthetic. A 300-year-old Hinoki cypress slab, imported from Japan, serves as the dining table. A hidden broom closet door features a subtle reference to the Japanese mending technique of kintsugi. The home integrates heirloom pieces, such as Japanese Tansu chests and a dragon image symbolizing prosperity, alongside contemporary furniture from brands like B&B Italia and Cassina. The primary bathroom includes a Hinoki plunge tub, maintained at a constant 36 degrees Fahrenheit, with an external refrigeration unit to regulate its temperature. Nozawa, who is half-Japanese, consciously balanced a commitment to Japanese modern aesthetics with the home's inherently Western architecture. The entryway embodies the project's essence, combining contemporary and traditional elements. A supermodern, site-specific glass lighting installation by Jeff Zimmerman, resembling giant milk drips, provides a striking contrast to antique Japanese wall panels from the clients' collection. This blend of old and new, East and West, reflects the clients' current identity and heritage, creating a unique and harmonious living environment. #JapaneseInspired #CaliforniaHome #InteriorDesign #MinimalistAesthetic #CustomCabinetry #NaturalMaterials #FlexibleSeating #SmartHomeTechnology #CulturalIntegration

Architect Andrew Lister designed a distinctive home for actor Yuri Kinugawa and film producer Owen Hughes in the Auckland suburb of Waterview. The residence, characterized by its tall silhouette, narrow upper window, and a blank cedar-clad facade, adheres to the principles of the Direct Compass, a Japanese discipline akin to feng shui. The home's exterior, covered in cedar weatherboards, initially appears utilitarian, yet conceals a thoughtfully designed interior. The house's structure is composed of two primary boxes connected by a passageway and an adjoining bathroom. Despite its compact footprint, the design creates an illusion of greater spaciousness, as noted by Hughes. A prominent feature of the living room is a two-story bookcase spanning the entire northern wall, housing Hughes’ extensive book collection. This vertical storage solution ingeniously maximizes space, drawing the eye upwards and adding visual texture without encroaching on floor area. The central area of the home is laid out efficiently, with the kitchen to the left and the bedroom to the right. Above these spaces, two offices are stacked, accessible via a stairway at the rear of the room. The interior is enriched by family antiques and Japanese textiles, which introduce complementary textures, transforming the angular space into a welcoming environment. Following Direct Compass principles, the bedroom, considered vital for family relationships, overlooks a small zen garden on the south side of the house. This placement is believed to promote mental clarity due to cooler temperatures. A six-foot-long passageway clearly delineates the transition from the public kitchen and dining areas to the private bedroom. The traditional Japanese bathroom, situated off the central passageway, serves as a space for washing before bathing in a wood-lined onsen (tub). While the north side of the house offers views of an estuary, the street-facing facade maintains a minimalist, private appearance. In stark contrast, the west-facing side features a double-height glass wall that can be fully opened, merging the living space with a veranda. This outdoor area overlooks the garden, estuary, and harbor, providing a setting for observing sunsets and occasional dolphin sightings. The home's exterior features low-maintenance Canadian cedar cladding and aluminum joinery, designed to age gracefully and harmonize with the surrounding garden's sculptural desert plants. The durability of these materials is crucial, given the home's exposure to south-westerly winds laden with salt from the estuary, a condition the chosen plants tolerate well. #JapaneseDesign #BoxHome #TwoStoryBookcase #SmallSpaceLiving #DirectCompass #AucklandArchitecture #CedarCladding #ZenGarden #OpenPlanLiving

Hélène Séguin and Vincent Lavoie, inspired by their 1996 trip to Japan, embarked on a journey to design and build a timber-frame home that blended their needs with Japanese Zen elements. They envisioned a residence that would offer balance and calm, surrounded by natural beauty. The couple spent years meticulously developing their plans, collaborating with ConSpecTek, a structural timber-house design firm, and architect technician Carl Fournier to translate their vision into detailed 2D/3D blueprints. In 2001, Séguin and Lavoie acquired a 5,109-square-meter lot in Hudson, bordered by a protected natural forest reserve. The construction of the B.C. fir timber frame, crafted by Heirloom Timber Frames, began in the spring of 2007. Donald Elliot, a general contractor from Hudson, was enlisted to oversee the project, ensuring a professional and committed team was in place. The self-build project presented its share of challenges. A significant budget overrun occurred when the selected metal roofing firm became unavailable, necessitating the choice of a more expensive alternative. This unexpected cost led to the postponement of certain additions, such as a garage. Despite these hurdles, the couple, along with their two young sons, moved into their partially completed home in February 2008. Over the years, Séguin and Lavoie have continued to enhance their property, adding a pond, sunrooms, a spa with a pergola, and extensive landscaping. The house itself measures 18.28 meters by 13.71 meters and is clad with horizontal white pine planks stained a cedar color. It features cathedral ceilings up to 7.31 meters high in some areas. With no basement, most of the approximately 233 square meters of living space is on the ground floor, complemented by a 20-meter mezzanine housing the main bedroom. Toitures Vaillancourt installed the galvanized sheet-metal roof, and the facade is adorned with a mix of shrubs, climbing plants, and seasonal decorations. Upon entering the house, the Japanese influence becomes immediately apparent. The entryway features slate slabs covered in a glossy, wet-looking epoxy resin, evoking the imagery of a natural riverbed. A Japanese cherry-wood lamp illuminates these details. Two large openings in the wall, designed for glass aquariums that house koi during winter, separate the entryway from the kitchen and offer a view through to the living room and the forest beyond. The dining room incorporates a unique feature: a hollow space 45.72 centimeters lower than the floor, allowing for Japanese-style seating with legs comfortably tucked under the suar wood table. Tatami mats and carbonized bamboo plank floorboards enhance comfort and style. An antique Chinese buffet, acquired during the couple's time in Luxembourg, adds a touch of international flair. The dining room and sunrooms offer views of the pond, with one sunroom serving as an extension of Séguin's psychology office during the summer months. The kitchen, designed for a modern and clean aesthetic, features stainless steel. Pierre Morency Architecte, known for his restaurant kitchen designs, contributed to the layout and suggested a 4.57-meter-long B.C. fir beam as the island counter. Stainless steel cabinets, designed and manufactured by Cajo Métallurgie Inc., were added later around the refrigerator. The kitchen and living room form a cohesive, airy space with Chinese slate flooring from Ramacieri Soligo. Radiant heating from hot-water pipes embedded in the concrete slab ensures warmth throughout the house. A notable architectural detail in the living room is a curved lower timber beam, mimicking a Japanese Torii gate. The space is furnished with an Italian leather sofa purchased in Luxembourg and an antique Chinese cabinet adorned with photos of jazz musicians. Pine wood steps attached to a single galvanized steel beam lead to the main bedroom on the mezzanine, with a custom-made handrail by a Dorion tinsmith and tightly stretched wire cables extending along the mezzanine. The main bedroom, an open-concept ensuite overlooking the living room, features a king-size mattress on tatami mats on an elevated level. The room receives ample light from the living room's upper windows, which align perfectly with the mezzanine. A free-standing Japanese-style vanity required careful planning, including the creation of a false beam to accommodate plumbing without obstructing light. The ceiling is decorated with bamboo slats and natural bamboo poles. Outdoors, the pergola is constructed from B.C. fir beams by Heirloom Timber Frames, and the spa base is made of IPE wood, known for its durability and resistance to humidity, rot, and insects. The exterior pond, a focal point visible from several rooms, was built by Jean Brulé of Jardins Aquadesign, drawing inspiration from a Japanese pond visited by the couple. It features three levels for various aquatic plants and is surrounded by natural stones laid by JPL Excavation and Landscaping. The pond is home to 25 to 30 koi, some purchased and others adopted, which are hand-fed daily. The residents affirm that their home, surrounded by nature, embodies a peaceful and Zen atmosphere, fostering a sense of balance and calm, with ongoing plans for future enhancements to their personal paradise. #JapaneseDesign #TimberFrameHome #ZenLifestyle #HudsonArchitecture #CustomHomeBuild #InteriorDesign #SustainableLiving #LandscapeDesign #HomeRenovation

The Mori House, originally designed in 1963 by Saul Zaik, a prominent figure in Pacific Northwest architecture, has been revitalized by SHED Architecture & Design. Located in a forested area of Portland, Oregon, the redesign aims to blend mid-century modern aesthetics with Japanese-inspired minimalism to suit a young family's design preferences and functional needs. The property features a main house, a detached garage and studio, and a teahouse pavilion, all connected by elevated decks and surrounded by tall trees, fostering a strong connection to nature. SHED Architecture & Design's renovation honors Zaik's original vision, which emphasized clear geometries and natural materials. The primary goal of the remodel was to enhance the flow of light and space, blurring the lines between the indoor and outdoor environments. A significant alteration involved replacing the original spiral staircase and loft with an open, vaulted ceiling. This change reveals the nail-laminated wood roof structure and introduces a new central skylight, which bathes the living areas in natural light and accentuates the architectural rhythm of the home. The main floor is designed with an open-plan layout, where the living, dining, and kitchen areas seamlessly connect along the southern side. Expansive glazing offers unobstructed views of the surrounding forest. A strategically relocated fireplace in the living room provides a focal point and, on clear days, offers views extending to Mount Saint Helens. The kitchen is a testament to refined craftsmanship, featuring custom fir accents and horizontal windows that frame views of mature rhododendrons, integrating the natural landscape into the interior design. The primary suite, situated on the northern side of the house, is designed as a luxurious and tranquil retreat. It includes a walk-in closet and a bathroom equipped with a Japanese soaking tub, combining comfort with elegant simplicity. Fir slats above the entry doors to the suite softly diffuse light, maintaining a visual link to the central skylight. The lower level of the house has also been transformed into a versatile space, accommodating three flexible rooms that can function as bedrooms, offices, or fitness areas, alongside a shared bathroom and a dedicated wine cellar. A cozy lounge area on this level, with its floor-to-ceiling windows, reinforces the home's deep connection to its natural, wooded surroundings. #Architecture #HouseDesign #InteriorDesign #JapaneseAesthetics #JapaneseMinimalism #MidCenturyModern #PortlandArchitecture #ResidentialDesign #SHEDArchitectureAndDesign

The former residence of the late Japanese fashion designer Kenzo Takada, known as The Kenzo House, is currently on the market through Christie's Real Estate. Located in the Bastille area of Paris, the four-story home was originally constructed by Takada in 1993 within the courtyard of an 18th-century Parisian building. Takada, who founded his eponymous label in Paris, sought to create a living space that harmoniously blended Eastern and Western design aesthetics, reflecting his own cultural background and artistic vision. The initial design of the house, which took seven years to complete, aimed to incorporate elements reminiscent of Japan, providing a tranquil contrast to the vibrant Parisian atmosphere that inspired his fashion work. The property underwent a significant redesign in 2018 by acclaimed Japanese architect Kengo Kuma. Kuma's architectural philosophy, focused on a “frame of nature,” guided the renovation, emphasizing the integration of natural materials and light to foster a deeper connection with the environment. Kuma's redesign utilized organic Japanese building materials such as ceramic, stone, bamboo, and various types of wood, aligning with his belief that these materials enhance the experience of nature within architectural spaces. He championed transparency as a characteristic of Japanese architecture, employing light and natural elements to achieve a distinctive form of visual and atmospheric clarity within the home. The Kenzo House features an expansive layout including four bedrooms, six bathrooms, a music room, a fitness room, a study, an elevator, and staff studio apartments. A central aspect of the property's appeal lies in its meticulously designed outdoor spaces. The garden includes a stone pond inhabited by nishiki carp, and extensive landscape gardens featuring cherry trees, maple trees, bamboos, moss, rocks, and waterfalls, all crafted to evoke the serene beauty of a traditional Japanese landscape. A key element of Kuma's redesign involved reorienting each bedroom to face the garden, visually and materially framing the house with nature. The property also boasts a Japanese pavilion with a traditional tea-ceremony room, complete with tatami mats and shoji sliding doors, opening directly onto the koi pond. Further incorporating Japanese design, a terrace with an outdoor lap swimming pool was converted into an engawa, a traditional Japanese exterior corridor made of wooden latticing, providing a covered outdoor dining and entertaining area with lush green foliage. An elegant stone bathtub offers panoramic views of the Parisian rooftops, contributing to the sense of luxury, peace, and pleasure envisioned in the home's design. #KenzoTakada #ParisRealEstate #JapaneseArchitecture #KengoKuma #LuxuryHomes #HomeDesign #EasternWesternFusion #ArchitecturalRenovation #GardenDesign

The latest interior design trends are seeing a significant Japanese influence emerging, moving beyond the traditionally robust and rustic country styles. This new trend is characterized by rich, silky textures, intricate calligraphy prints, sophisticated stylized seascapes, and elegant crane motifs, which are adorning a wide array of homeware items. John Lewis, a prominent retailer, is at the forefront of this trend, having introduced a new collection of decorative pieces that draw inspiration directly from the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A). Philippa Prinsloo, the Head of Design at John Lewis, highlights the profound and extensive impact of Japanese culture across various facets of life, including traditions, design philosophies, culinary arts, and craftsmanship. She notes that Japanese influences are increasingly visible in contemporary thought, lifestyle choices, and aesthetic preferences. The V&A, known for possessing one of the world’s most comprehensive collections of Japanese art and design, served as a crucial source of inspiration for the development of this new collection. Central to Japanese aesthetics is the reverence for the natural world. This principle guided the creative process for the collection, where natural motifs were reimagined and transformed into geometric patterns. These patterns seamlessly transition across different pieces, such as from one plate to another, or intricately weave through the backgrounds of textiles and wallpapers. The designs in the collection are characterized by their delicacy, intricacy, fine detailing, rich color palettes, and overall refinement. The design team meticulously studied various Japanese artifacts, ranging from miniature Netsuke carvings to the powerful and ornate attire of samurai warriors, to inform the collection's aesthetic. Among the featured items in the collection are the Konoha and Kumo cushions, priced at £45, and the Kaiyo Wallpaper Panel, which retails for £80. The natural world's influence is evident in these pieces, with updated designs that maintain a delicate and intricate feel. Another notable piece is the Fitzhenry Collectors' Cabinet, priced at £999. This furniture item showcases Japanese craftsmanship through its rich wood tones, complemented by brass legs and an intricately patterned back. Display cabinets, which have recently seen a resurgence in popularity, are elegantly utilized to showcase tableware from the new Japanese range, adding a touch of sophistication to any room. The tabletop collection features unique illustrations inspired by the V&A's art exhibits. The decorative china distinctly reflects Japanese design, notably through the incorporation of the elegant crane motif. In Japanese culture, the crane is a mystical creature symbolizing good fortune and longevity. Examples include the Yama Side Plates, a set of four for £65; the Mizu platter, priced at £55; and the Tobu cup & saucer, available for £25. In terms of lighting, the Japanese style emphasizes ambient and mood-enhancing illumination, shunning bright spotlights. Light fixtures are often large in scale but cleverly designed to conceal bulbs, ensuring that the emitted light is consistently soft and never overpowering. An example is the Jones Wall Light, priced at £75, which not only provides a gentle glow but also casts impressive silhouettes on surrounding walls. This new collection is anticipated to be available in stores and online by the end of the month, offering consumers an opportunity to incorporate Japanese-inspired elegance into their homes. #JapaneseDesign #HomeDecor #InteriorTrends #JohnLewis #VAMuseum #HomewareCollection #Craftsmanship #ElegantInteriors #DesignInspiration

The Fukuoka-based design firm Case-Real, led by Koichi Futatsumata, has successfully transformed a traditional Japanese storehouse, known as a 'kura,' into a contemporary and highly versatile multi-functional work-live space. This project was conceived to address the growing demand for spaces that seamlessly integrate professional and personal lives, particularly for creative individuals. The owners, a creative director in food design and a gallerist specializing in Japanese craft, required a space that could accommodate their diverse professional needs, from hosting art exhibitions to conducting tea ceremonies, while also serving as a comfortable living environment. The converted property is located in Gosho-Higashi, a tranquil area nestled between Kyoto Gyoen and the Kamo River. The design incorporates a white structure that houses the primary office area, complementing the traditional kura, which was repurposed as a gallery to display pottery and everyday tools. Futatsumata's vision was to create a harmonious environment where the clients' varied professions could coexist and even influence each other, a concept deeply rooted in the inherent adaptability of traditional Japanese residences. The aesthetic of the space is characterized by a refined color palette of plums, browns, and creams, establishing a warm and inviting atmosphere. A key functional element is the inclusion of movable screens, which allow for dynamic adjustments to room sizes, offering flexibility for different activities and gatherings. This design choice underscores the adaptability that was central to the project's brief. To achieve the unique blend of urban Japanese style and traditional Zen aesthetics, Case-Real collaborated with local artisans. For the tearoom, bespoke furniture was crafted by Koichi Touji and Yuji Yamamoto, resulting in a custom six-seater counter designed to fit the room's specific dimensions. Architectural lighting specialist Shoji Hiroyasu was engaged to implement tastefully concealed down-lighting, further enhancing the serene and sophisticated ambiance. Futatsumata highlights that the project's success in balancing multiple functions stems from embracing the inherent spatial continuity found in traditional Japanese architecture. This approach allowed for a design where each functional area within the house harmoniously coexists, providing the owners with an elegant, adaptable, and inspiring environment that supports both their professional endeavors and personal lives. #JapaneseArchitecture #LiveWorkSpace #StorehouseConversion #InteriorDesign #ModernWorkspace #KoichiFutatsumata #CaseReal #KyotoDesign #TraditionalMeetsContemporary

Kichi Architectural Design has completed the House of Kubogaoka, a cube-shaped residence in Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan. The house features small square windows intermittently placed across its facades. The structure utilizes a timber framework, but its front and rear facades are finished with plaster, providing the appearance of solid concrete construction. In contrast to these two facades, the side walls of the house are painted white. According to the architects, the use of white on the side walls creates a clear visual distinction against the basic mortar color of the other exterior walls. The main entrance of the house is created by an apparent cut-away section at one corner of the cube. Upon entering, a corridor extends directly through the house to a terrace located at the rear. This corridor features a dark tiled floor, which the architects liken to the traditional earth floors found in older Japanese homes. This design element aims to evoke a sense of historical Japanese dwelling immediately upon entry, extending the concept of an 'earth-floored room' to the outdoor yard beyond. The interior of the house introduces varying floor levels and materials to define different spaces. The main living area of the first storey is raised by two steps from the entrance corridor. This change in elevation is accompanied by a transition in flooring material, moving from the dark tiles of the corridor to a wooden surface. Further into the house, this wooden surface then gives way to a grid of tatami mats, forming a traditional Japanese room. The architects state that this combination of tatami and tiles harmonizes Japanese and Western interior styles within the residence. The traditional Japanese room is designed with sliding partitions, allowing it to be separated from an adjacent long, narrow space. This adaptable space serves multiple functions as a combined living room, dining room, and kitchen. This layout facilitates an open-plan living environment while retaining the option for privacy or distinct area definitions through the use of traditional sliding screens. An outdoor dining area is integrated into a recess at the back of the house. This area is strategically aligned with a sheltered balcony on the upper floor, suggesting a vertical connection between the outdoor spaces. A staircase, constructed with wooden treads, provides access to the upper storey. The upper floor accommodates two bedrooms, which are situated along opposite walls, with a second tatami room positioned between them. Photography for the project was carried out by Ippei Shinzawa. Floor plans for both the ground and first floors, as well as a cross-section, are available to illustrate the layout and design. #ResidentialArchitecture #JapaneseHouses #KichiArchitecturalDesign #IbarakiPrefecture #CubeHouse #TatamiRooms #TimberConstruction #ArchitecturalDesign

Kenzo House, the former residence of renowned Japanese fashion designer Kenzo Takada, is a luxurious, Zen-inspired property nestled within an 18th-century apartment building in Paris’s 11th arrondissement. Originally built by Kenzo in 1993, the house underwent a significant redesign in 2018 by award-winning architect Kengo Kuma, known for his work on the National Stadium for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and the V&A Dundee. This 13,778-square-foot, four-story residence, now offered through Christie’s International Real Estate, masterfully blends Eastern and Western influences, much like Takada's own designs. The current owners, a French businessman and his family, acquired the property in 2016 after spending 15 years in Asia, where they admired Kuma's work and his philosophy of connecting architecture with nature. They commissioned Kuma to renovate Kenzo House, maintaining fidelity to Kenzo's original vision of an authentic Japanese house and garden. Kuma, in collaboration with architect Loïk Corre, who worked on Kenzo’s initial plans, reconfigured the layout to enhance harmony and fluidity, integrating the house more closely with its natural surroundings. He achieved this by adding natural Japanese building materials like cedar shingles, teak, clay, ceramic, stone, and bamboo to the exterior, enriching its texture and warmth. Internally, partition walls were replaced with timber slats, and an indoor lap pool was transformed into an _engawa_, a traditional Japanese exterior corridor crafted from wooden latticing. Large interior windows, a floating staircase, and sliding doors were installed, and all bedrooms were oriented to face the courtyard garden, bringing nature into the interior spaces. Kuma's design philosophy, centered on transparency and a deeper connection to nature, is evident throughout the renovation. He emphasizes the use of light and natural materials to create a new kind of transparency, a characteristic of Japanese architecture. The interiors feature sleek and soothing aesthetics, with French oak louvres, beams, and floors complementing the original wood finishes. Key furniture pieces, including Hans Wegner ‘Wishbone’ chairs in the dining room and Walter Knoll pieces in the living room, were selected to maintain a calm atmosphere. The landscaped Japanese garden is a highlight of the property, perfected by Kuma. It features a stone-studded pond with nishiki carp, a traditional Japanese pavilion with a tea ceremony room, a waterfall, and several outdoor terraces. The careful selection of bamboo, junipers, lichens, mosses, and cherry trees evokes the tranquility of a Japanese landscape. The property now includes four bedrooms, six bathrooms, a Japanese suite opening onto the garden, two large reception rooms, two dining rooms, two kitchens, and three self-contained studio apartments for staff. Additional amenities encompass a music room, fitness room, wine cellar, lift, and private parking. Kenzo Takada himself remarked upon returning to his former home that it was “much more Japanese than before, and much more modern,” highlighting its evolution into a living work of art that inspires a Zen lifestyle. #LuxuryLiving #KenzoHouse #ParisRealEstate #JapaneseArchitecture #KengoKuma #InteriorDesign #ZenInspired #ChristiesRealEstate #ArchitecturalRenovation