Ten furniture and lighting designs by Japanese brands and designers

Industrial designer Keiji Takeuchi, based in Milan, has introduced a new line of pendant lamps named Lacquer, which draw inspiration from traditional Japanese lacquer bowls. These lamps, despite their contemporary release, possess a timeless aesthetic that could easily be mistaken for classic designs from the 1970s. The initial concept for the collection originated from Takeuchi's visualization of a Japanese lacquer bowl suspended upside down from the ceiling. This foundational idea led to the development of a small-sized pendant lamp, which subsequently expanded into a comprehensive collection featuring several larger variations. A key design element highlighted by Takeuchi is the intricate detail incorporated into the light diffuser. This component was meticulously crafted with a concave contour. This specific shaping ensures that the diffuser remains concealed within the lampshade when viewed from certain angles, maintaining the clean lines and aesthetic integrity of the design. Beyond its discreet appearance, this concave diffuser also serves a functional purpose: it effectively broadens the light distribution, spreading illumination across an impressive 180-degree wide angle. This thoughtful integration of form and function enhances both the visual appeal and practical utility of the lamps. The Lacquer collection is currently being manufactured and distributed by Nine Furniture, a European design brand. This collaboration brings Takeuchi's vision to a broader market, offering consumers a lighting solution that marries traditional Japanese artistry with modern industrial design principles. The emphasis on subtle details, such as the hidden yet highly functional diffuser, underscores a design philosophy that values both aesthetic beauty and innovative engineering. The overall impression is one of refined simplicity, where every element contributes to a cohesive and effective lighting fixture. The lamps reflect a blend of cultural heritage and contemporary design, making them versatile additions to various interior spaces. The collection is designed to provide both direct and ambient lighting, suitable for diverse residential and commercial applications. The production process by Nine Furniture ensures high-quality craftsmanship and adherence to the original design intent, making these lamps a notable addition to the modern lighting market. #PendantLamps #KeijiTakeuchi #JapaneseDesign #IndustrialDesign #LightingDesign #NineFurniture #HomeLighting #ModernDesign #DesignInnovation

The Pod collection, a collaboration between B&T Design and Japanese designer Jin Kuramoto, introduces a novel approach to furniture design, aiming to redefine how individuals sit, gather, and interact within a space. This collection, launched during Clerkenwell Design Week 2025, reflects B&T Design's commitment to innovation and rethinking fundamental aspects of furniture use. The Pod collection is characterized by its distinctive geometric transformation, featuring a cylindrical structure that creates an illusion of lightness. The furniture pieces appear to float, thanks to height-adjustable bases that prevent them from directly touching the ground. This visual levity is complemented by the physical solidity provided by cold-molded HR foam and wooden cores, ensuring both comfort and structural integrity. This balance is a defining characteristic of Pod's presence in any room. The collection is presented in two basic forms: Tri, a triangular shape, and Quad, a square shape. These elemental forms, reminiscent of shapes learned in childhood, are subtly transformed with cylindrical sections, making the resulting pieces both familiar and intriguing. Their enclosed design promotes intimacy and conversation, setting Pod apart from traditional sofas or benches and fostering new possibilities for spatial interaction and communication. Jin Kuramoto, born in 1976, established his design studio in 2008, bringing a philosophy rooted in Japanese design principles that emphasize simplicity and the "essence of things." His interdisciplinary work, spanning furniture, appliances, and automotive design, enriches the exploration of human behavior and space within the Pod collection. The partnership between B&T Design and Jin Kuramoto is significant, as Kuramoto's poetic design approach and cultural depth infuse an emotional layer into the collection. This collaboration underscores B&T Design's belief in the power of diverse perspectives in design. To commemorate their initial collaboration, B&T Design organized "3 Days of Discovery" in Istanbul, allowing Kuramoto to immerse himself in the city's environment. This experience contributed to the emotional and cultural foundation of Pod, highlighting a shared process of exploring cultural exchange and developing a common design language. Kuramoto emphasizes his focus on how furniture can inspire users and interact with its environment, aiming for Pod to facilitate playful engagement and enrich daily experiences. B&T Design, founded in 1995, originated as a metal workshop focused on craftsmanship. The brand has evolved into a global company, expanding its network to over 65 countries. Its philosophy centers on the question, "What can we do new today that will inspire people?" This approach guides the creation of not only design chairs, sofas, poufs, and tables, but also contributes to creating inspiring looks, moods, emotions, and feelings within spaces. The Pod collection embodies this spirit, representing a synthesis of innovative design and emotional connection. The launch of Pod at Clerkenwell Design Week coincided with B&T Design's 30th anniversary and the opening of a permanent showroom in London, marking a significant milestone for the brand. #FurnitureDesign #InteriorDesign #ProductDesign #ModernFurniture #DesignCollaboration #JinKuramoto #BTDesign #ClerkenwellDesignWeek #JapaneseDesign

The selection and implementation of furniture joints are crucial to both the structural integrity and aesthetic appeal of a design. Contemporary furniture design seeks to integrate both beauty and functionality, moving beyond a trade-off between the two. Understanding various joint types opens up possibilities for creating diverse and robust furniture pieces. This article highlights several innovative examples of furniture design, each showcasing unique approaches to joinery. One such example is the Recess Table by Nina Cho. This piece redefines traditional table construction by integrating the legs into the tabletop's form, eliminating separate leg elements. The design features a tubular cavity and a circular recess within the tabletop, providing spaces for personalization, decoration, or storage. The table's structure ensures easy assembly without additional work. Nina Cho's design philosophy emphasizes minimalism and functionality, which is evident in the Recess Table's cohesive and practical form. Another innovative creation is the Wabi-Sabi Bed by Ethan Stebbins. Inspired by Japanese craftsmanship, Stebbins utilizes Japanese interlocking joinery methods with locally sourced materials from coastal Maine. This approach results in simple, stable, and durable beds that exude an exclusive luxury feel. The design highlights the natural beauty and raw textures of the materials, offering a fresh perspective on furniture design by drawing inspiration from the surrounding landscape. Stefan Diez, a German industrial designer, introduced the conceptual Boa table system. This system is based on aluminum tubes and was developed in association with BOA for HAY. Diez is known for his material experimentation and his belief that design should produce high-quality, long-lasting goods for future generations. The Boa system exemplifies this philosophy through its innovative use of materials and modular design. The Anvil console table by Erika Cross Studio offers a long-lasting furniture solution with straightforward joinery. Its whimsical appearance comes from rounded edges that soften otherwise sharp angles. The studio incorporates materials such as cork, Baltic birch, and ebonized or natural ash in its design. The solid forms of the Anvil evoke abstract planes, contributing to its distinctive aesthetic. Finally, the Embrace sideboard by Teixeira Design Studio showcases both storage utility and aesthetic appeal. This piece features unique joints and soft curves, designed to blend harmoniously with various interiors while providing clever hidden storage and cable management solutions. The studio's founder emphasizes that "Design is simply an attitude," reflecting the thoughtful integration of form and function in the Embrace sideboard. These examples demonstrate diverse strategies in furniture joinery, ranging from enhancing durability to maximizing visual appeal. Each design integrates these aspects, proving that it is possible to achieve both strength and aesthetic beauty in furniture construction. #FurnitureDesign #JoineryTechniques #InnovativeDesign #Woodworking #MinimalistDesign #JapaneseCraftsmanship #SustainableMaterials #InteriorDesign

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

This article explores nine diverse examples of Japandi interior design, a style that harmoniously merges Japanese and Scandinavian aesthetics. Japandi design is characterized by its contemporary yet minimalist nature, prioritizing quiet, understated elegance, coziness, and comfort, often incorporating elements of Hygge and Wabi-Sabi philosophy. The style frequently uses earthy palettes and natural materials to create serene and inspiring spaces. The first example is a duplex apartment in Singapore, named The Rasidence, where Studio Right Angle implemented a minimalist Japandi aesthetic. This design features sliding ash wood screens for subtle space division and an earthy palette of oak, stone, and neutral hues, fostering an airy and grounding presence that evokes serenity. Next, a former photography studio in San Francisco's Potero Hill neighborhood was transformed into a serene Japandi home by Brooke Aitken. The renovation preserved original clerestory windows and cinder-block walls while integrating natural light and covering walls in linen-like vinyl, with selective pops of red in furnishings, enhancing the home's coziness. An I.M. Pei-designed apartment in Manhattan's Kips Bay Towers underwent a Japandi-inspired revamp by Uli Wagner Design Lab. The firm introduced fluted ceiling panels and minimalist touches, alongside multiple aluminum windows, to open up the floorplan and maximize natural light, maintaining a grounded aesthetic within the Brutalist classic structure. In Dublin, Róisín Lafferty and Ambient Architecture combined two semi-detached houses into a single residence with a fashionable Japandi style. The design utilizes a neutral base palette, reflective surfaces, and glass walls to bring in natural light and views of the verdant backyard, creating an “oasis of calm” with subtle greens, blues, and taupes. Jan Žaloudek, an architect, designed his own serene 1,600-square-foot home in Kamenná Lhota, Czech Republic, embodying modern Japandi interior design. The home features circular and quatrefoil-shaped punctures in the masonry for ventilation and light, casting “lacelike shadows” on concrete floors. The decor reflects fine art interests, with carefully curated furniture and artwork giving spaces an ecclesiastical and gallery-like feel. OWIU revitalized a neglected 1955 home in Los Angeles, channeling their Japanese-inspired design ethos with a modern aesthetic. Floor-to-ceiling windows offer views of a substantial garden, and every surface is painted to reflect the landscape, from terra-cotta to beige, with Venetian plaster in the foyer bringing in the texture of surrounding mountains. In La Quinta, California, a 12,000-square-foot desert home, inspired by Japanese Zen gardens, was reimagined by Lucas interior design firm. This space integrates emerald green and navy blue tones with bronze accents and wooden elements, creating a Japandi style. Thoughtfully chosen furniture, lighting, tactile fabrics, and natural materials like stone and steel contribute to a cozy and visually rich atmosphere. A London apartment by Natural Asthetik achieved a serene Japandi environment using a restrained, soft, and natural color and material palette, incorporating wood, stone, and natural fibers. Organic shaped pieces and curves were used to maintain an energetic flow within the rooms, creating a peaceful refuge in the city. Finally, a 10,000-square-foot Vancouver Island home by Andrea Rodman Interiors blends Japanese and Scandinavian influences. Taking inspiration from Canadian countryside houses, the contemporary and minimalist design features a white palette accented by oak tones, natural stone, and rattan, making the interiors feel airy and connected to the coastal British Columbia environment, achieving a unique balance between the two design styles. #JapandiInteriorDesign #MinimalistDesign #ScandinavianAesthetics #JapaneseAesthetics #HomeDecor #InteriorDesignProjects #TranquilSpaces #NaturalMaterials #SustainableDesign

Japanese-inspired interior design is gaining prominence for its emphasis on calm, craft, and simplicity, offering a sophisticated and timeless aesthetic. This style integrates elements from Japan's landscape, art, and culture, utilizing materials and motifs that evoke serenity and considered design. Key characteristics include the use of fine silks, delicate screen prints, and cherry blossom patterns, interpreted through minimalist silhouettes and organic textures. The enduring appeal of this design lies in its ability to blend simplicity with sophistication, providing a modern yet deeply calming environment. Several design elements illustrate the contemporary application of Japanese influences. Arboreal repeat patterns, such as wallpapers depicting native trees like weeping willows and cherry blossoms intertwined with calligraphy resembling poetic waves, showcase Japanese symbolism and texture. These designs are often printed on brushed straw grounds and complement natural materials like Arabescato marble and wood, creating a cohesive organic feel. The 'By the Light of the Moon' theme highlights the beauty of the natural world and changing seasons, incorporating elements like feathery grasses and wildflowers illuminated by glowing moons on gilded silk wallcoverings, reflecting themes of space and light prevalent in Japanese art. 'Celestial Calm' designs feature undulating clouds and floating moons, setting a serene tone. An example is a wallcovering pictured in a warm neutral Eclipse colorway, which pairs effectively with Japanese-inspired indigo fabrics, demonstrating how soft palettes and subtle patterns contribute to a tranquil atmosphere. The 'Zen Garden' concept draws inspiration from the meditative practice of sand raking, incorporating hypnotic abstract patterning on fabrics. These fabrics, available in soft, earthy shades, are ideal for seating with simple silhouettes and dark woods, bringing a sense of meditative calm to interiors. 'Into the Woods' designs feature soaring pine motifs, symbolizing longevity in Japanese culture. Wallpapers with such designs, often part of collections that reference traditional Japanese techniques and natural materials, contribute to timeless interior schemes. For a touch of 'Time to Shine,' Japanese screen-inspired fabrics, such as those with hand-painted pampas grass jacquard of silk, wool, and cotton, are used for wall coverings, while embroidered cordwork fabrics reminiscent of Japanese basketry are incorporated into headboards, adding texture and cultural depth. 'Eternal Spring' captures the ephemeral beauty of cherry blossoms through designs inspired by Edo paintings. These wallcoverings often utilize earthy tones like paprika, terracotta, olive, and brown to introduce comforting warmth, particularly suitable for bedroom settings when paired with luxurious materials like velvet and cocooning curtains. Finally, 'Textural Blooms' demonstrate how luxurious velour jacquard fabrics, featuring trailing cherry blossoms with velvety piles, can transform simple upholstery into art. These fabrics are available in various colorways, from cool blues to glamorous golds, adding a tactile and visually rich dimension to interiors. Even without a full renovation, the essence of Japanese design can be achieved through smaller elements such as soft lighting, tactile ceramics, and natural materials, emphasizing that Japanese aesthetics, while similar to minimalism, offer a 'warm minimalism' that balances simplicity with texture and depth. #JapaneseInteriors #InteriorDesignTrends #CalmDesign #MinimalistAesthetic #NaturalMaterials #TexturalDesign #HomeDecor #WallpaperTrends #AsianInspiredDesign

Metaphor Interior Architecture, a Jakarta-based interior design consultancy, services clients globally. This firm, composed of creative individuals, aims to provide optimal design solutions, specifically focusing on The Zora Kanade cluster. Christine, a senior associate, spearheads the design for Kanade Type 12. She reveals that her prior work on the Samasana Club House at The Zora provided a foundational understanding of the developer's design aspirations for the Kanade Cluster, which she extended to its three show unit houses. Her approach to the design brief involved analyzing the high-end target market and varied price points of the three housing units to determine appropriate interior design concepts. This led to distinct designs for each show unit, all incorporating a Japanese sensibility tailored for a modern, affluent demographic. Christine explains that the Japanese philosophy is translated not through direct imitation, but through the principle of 'balancing,' akin to Zen philosophy. This balance is evident in the harmonious use of colors, materials, and room composition, which collectively contribute to the desired ambiance. Elaborating on design balance, Christine highlights that each room's decor aligns with its function. For instance, a spacious area between the living and dining rooms demonstrates their strategy for balancing different zones within a single space. They also collaborate with Henco Home Decor to supply custom-designed furniture. Regarding color palettes, earth tones like brown or gray form the base, augmented by accent colors such as burnt orange, teal, and combinations thereof. While orange might not be traditionally Japanese, teal and olive are chosen for their natural associations, reflecting leaf colors. These accent colors are strategically employed to infuse a modern and luxurious feel into the Japanese aesthetic. Acknowledging the Japanese preference for simplicity, Christine clarifies that the target market's demand for luxury necessitated a nuanced approach to color, resulting in a unique modern atmosphere. The three show units, contrary to having a common thread, are each designed with distinct interior concepts to cater to their specific target markets. For example, the Type 12 unit targets a mature clientele prioritizing luxury, while Type 8+ and Type 10 units are designed with younger families in mind, featuring more youthful aesthetics. To ensure each unit resonates with potential buyers, the design process incorporates diverse consumer style preferences. These customer needs are then translated into unique designs for each unit, varying in color and overall concept. Material selection prioritizes both aesthetics and ease of maintenance, with choices like solid surface, marble, or laminate ensuring durability and practicality. #InteriorDesign #JapaneseDesign #LuxuryHomes #MetaphorInteriorArchitecture #HomeDecoration #DesignPhilosophy #ColorPalette #MaterialSelection

Traditional Japanese design, known for its refined simplicity and natural material usage, has consistently influenced architectural trends globally. Contemporary interpretations often merge classic Japanese elements with modern aesthetics, sometimes blending with Scandinavian influences to create 'Japandi style.' This article highlights five homes featured in Architectural Digest that exemplify the fusion of traditional Japanese-inspired design with contemporary decor. The first example is a midcentury modern home in Dutchess County, New York, purchased by interior designer Brygida Michon and her husband. This 1960s residence, known as The Falls, captivated them with its abundant natural light, facilitated by floor-to-ceiling windows and numerous skylights. The home integrates various textures, including stone floors, cedarwood walls, and curved wooden beams. The couple preserved the home’s original architectural intent, focusing on furniture selections that complemented its existing design and harmonious connection to nature. Next, the article explores NBA star D’Angelo Russell's Minneapolis retreat, renovated by interior designer Tiffany Thompson of Duett Interiors. Russell desired a limited color palette, primarily black and white, inspiring Thompson to create contrasts using elements like a black Italian leather sectional and a cream-colored Flag Halyard chair. Cherry wood flooring unifies the space. Thompson drew inspiration from Japan's densely wooded island of Yakushima, aiming for an aesthetic balancing textures and incorporating shou sugi ban treatments, a Japanese principle embodying wabi-sabi through asymmetry, roughness, and simplicity. The design reflects a distinctive emotional response to the seasonal shift, creating a calm and seductive atmosphere. The third home featured is a California remodel with Japanese and Coloradan influences. Designer Momoko Morton Wong collaborated with her sister Aiko on transforming a 1950s property. The remodel involved reimagining the layout to suit a contemporary lifestyle, with shared spaces now occupying the larger side of the house and private areas on the smaller side. Asian influences, stemming from Aiko's time in Japan and Singapore, were integrated alongside elements from Colorado, such as stones, woods, and metals. The design prioritizes clean lines and a neutral color palette, harmonizing with the surrounding mountain views. Unique touches, like a playful wallpaper in the pantry, add unexpected joy. Another example is a brutalist abode in Houston, Texas, inspired by architect Tadao Ando. Architect Christopher Robertson and his wife, Vivi Nguyen, from Robertson Design, based their family home on Ando’s work, particularly his sequenced entries and concrete minimalism observed during a trip to Japan. The house comprises two stacked volumes, one in wood and one in concrete, featuring a processional entry through a rock-garden-style courtyard, reminiscent of traditional Japanese residential architecture. Despite a seemingly bunker-like concrete exterior, the interior is open and filled with diffused Texas sunlight through window walls and skylights, creating a sense of surprise. Finally, the article showcases a Pasadena indoor-outdoor oasis, a Buff & Hensman-designed home from 1976, belonging to architects Robin Nanney and Christopher Norman. This residence embodies Eastern-influenced modernism, with interiors featuring redwood, oakwood floors, and teakwood details. The home's structure and exterior present a slight roughness, contrasted with smooth and refined millwork. Japanese-style gardens, with gingko and Japanese maple trees, have been meticulously maintained since construction. The entrance, flanked by stained-glass windows, blurs the line between indoors and outdoors, offering an oasis-like transition into the home and fostering a sense of peace. #JapaneseDesign #ModernHomes #ArchitecturalDesign #InteriorDesign #JapandiStyle #NaturalMaterials #MidcenturyModern #IndoorOutdoorLiving #BrutalistArchitecture

The Kinuta Terrace, a 36-unit apartment complex built in the 1980s and located in a residential area of central Tokyo, has undergone a significant renovation. The developer enlisted the expertise of Tokyo-based Keiji Ashizawa Design and Copenhagen’s Norm Architects to transform two of the units into model apartments. The primary objective was to offer prospective residents design inspiration and styling concepts, with a strong emphasis on integrating nature and light into minimalist interiors. Inspired by the complex's integrated courtyard, which provides direct garden access—a valuable asset in a densely populated city like Tokyo—the renovation aimed to create an atmosphere as natural as possible within the apartments. The designers sought to bring the outdoors inside while simultaneously ensuring a sense of privacy. This was achieved through a strategic reconfiguration of the apartment layouts, resulting in larger, more open living areas that are flooded with natural light. The material palette chosen for the interiors is deliberately understated, featuring natural tones such as rustic concrete walls juxtaposed with light oak flooring, further enhancing the connection to nature. A significant aspect of the project involved the development of custom furnishings. Many pieces are crafted from light cypress, pale grays, and beige, aligning with the natural aesthetic. Frederik Werner, a designer and associate partner at Norm Architects, emphasized the importance of natural materials that age gracefully and tactile textures. He believes these elements are crucial for human well-being, contributing to the longevity of products and timeless aesthetics, and helping urban dwellers reconnect with nature. The collaboration extended to Karimoku, a prominent Japanese wooden furniture manufacturer, leading to the creation of the Kinuta Collection. This 12-piece bespoke furniture line is now part of a new brand called Karimoku Case Study. While currently available only at the AXIS Gallery in Japan, plans are in place for worldwide distribution. The collection includes a pale gray sofa with a cypress frame and a coffee table with a black-tinted glass top, and many designs draw inspiration from Japanese temples and gardens, incorporating thoughtful details. Examples from the collection include the Kinuta A-S01 sofa, a simple, multifunctional piece with an oak finish and Kvadrat fabrics, designed to invite light and air into double-height spaces. The Kinuta A-CT01 coffee table features a cypress wood frame and a thin pane of black-tinted glass, its height designed to match the sofa and even allow for use while sitting on the floor, referencing traditional Japanese short-legged dining tables. The Kinuta A-DT01 dining table reflects the 'crude beauty and roughness' of the original apartment interiors, with a structure designed to echo the apartments’ geometric layout and a balance of light and heavy elements, appearing delicate from some angles and robust where needed. Another piece, the Kinuta N–SS01 bookshelf, draws inspiration from umbrella and shoe racks found near the entrances of Japanese temples and shrines. Repetitive patterns are used throughout the design, with staircases, rails, and wall panels mimicking elements of the courtyard, an architectural approach echoed in the furniture. The designers paid careful attention to light, transparency, and shadows, both within the interiors and in the exterior design of the building. Werner highlights the mutual fascination and appreciation between Japanese and Scandinavian design traditions, particularly in their shared respect for natural materials and the creation of physical and mental sanctuaries. He concludes that these sanctuaries, composed of natural elements, peace, and calm, are increasingly vital in an era of large-scale urbanization, with Tokyo serving as a prime example. #TokyoApartments #MinimalistDesign #ScandinavianDesign #JapaneseDesign #NormArchitects #KeijiAshizawaDesign #KinutaCollection #NaturalMaterials #InteriorRenovation #UrbanLiving

This article presents ten living room design ideas, drawing inspiration from Dezeen's extensive archive of lookbooks. Since 2020, Dezeen has published over 350 lookbooks, providing visual guidance for various interior design projects. This compilation specifically focuses on key trends and suggestions for designing or updating a living room, offering a practical guide for those looking to refresh their space. One featured trend is the 'Japandi' aesthetic, a fusion of Japanese and Scandinavian styles characterized by minimalist design and natural materials. An example is a Tokyo home by Norm Architects and Keiji Ashizawa Design, which uses wood surfaces and neutral tones to create a calming living environment. Another crucial aspect highlighted is adequate storage. The article showcases living rooms with integrated and stylish storage solutions, including custom shelving and units that double as room dividers. A renovated factory in New York, designed by Ravi Raj and Evan Watts, illustrates this with built-in storage in a pastel yellow. For those aiming for a bold statement, supersizing the sofa is suggested. A lookbook focusing on living rooms with giant sofas demonstrates how these pieces can become the focal point of a space, as seen in a Parisian apartment by Rodolphe Parente, where a sculptural sofa contrasts with classic architectural features. Sculptural coffee tables are also presented as central elements, with examples ranging from geometric stone slabs to curved forms. DAB Studio's Dutch house interior features a glass tabletop on cuboid and cone-shaped blocks, complementing other angular furniture. Lighting options include paper lamps, which offer a versatile and warm glow. These lamps, inspired by traditional Japanese rice paper lanterns, come in various shapes and sizes, as demonstrated in a Hamptons beach house where a large spherical paper lamp illuminates a double-height living room. The article also suggests adding an eye-catching rug to transform a living room, either by introducing color or defining different zones. A New York living room by No Architecture uses a warm-toned rug to complement a wooden coffee table and contrast a navy sofa. To enhance coziness, the article proposes suspended fireplaces. Ceiling-mounted stoves and log burners create an interesting focal point, exemplified by a fireplace in Marramarra Shack in Australia, surrounded by tiered seating and a large window. For color schemes, autumnal shades like deep reds, rusty terracottas, and burnt oranges are recommended for a warm ambiance. An apartment in New York's West Village, designed by Olivier Garcé, features a terracotta-toned chair and a fire-engine red floor lamp. Finally, for a relaxed and informal atmosphere, low-slung furniture is suggested. Sofas, tables, and storage units positioned close to the ground create a casual lounge feel. A converted factory apartment in Barcelona, with its low-slung shelf, table, and deep-seated sofa, demonstrates how this style can complement high vaulted ceilings. The most unconventional idea is the conversation pit, a retro-inspired sunken gathering space that creates intimacy, as seen in Pam and Paul's House in California with its purple-cushioned pit. #LivingRoomDesign #JapandiStyle #InteriorStorage #SculpturalFurniture #LightingDesign #AreaRugs #FireplaceDesign #AutumnalColors #LowSlungFurniture

Milan Design Week 2025 showcased a significant presence of Japanese design and craftsmanship across various creative disciplines, ranging from furniture and lighting to unique homes and traditional tea caddies. This year's event highlighted an array of projects that blended traditional Japanese aesthetics with contemporary design principles, demonstrating a commitment to functionality, material integrity, and serene living. Among the standout exhibits was Nao Tamura’s ‘Vosco’ portable light for Ambientec. Tamura, inspired by timeless tools, crafted a light with a clean-lined solidity, featuring a cast iron top and a base made from Japanese walnut, maple, or oak. The design emphasizes utility and durability, incorporating a new Fresnel lens for uniform light diffusion across five levels, catering to diverse needs from a gentle glow to brighter illumination. Tamura's approach reflects a broader philosophical shift towards designing objects that are truly useful and enduring in a world already saturated with products. Atsushi Shindo presented ‘Some Echoes,’ a lighting installation at Salone Satellite inspired by a deep forest. Crafted from hundreds of hand-split Japanese sawara cypress wood pieces, the installation diffused a warm LED light, mimicking the scattered light through trees. Shindo aimed to create a 'moment in time' rather than just an object, using natural materials to evoke a sense of tranquility and connection to nature. Kengo Kuma collaborated with Gandia Blasco to create ‘Hos,’ a furniture collection that explores the interplay between timber and textiles. The collection features rug-like textiles made from recycled PET fibers draped over structural wood frames, reminiscent of Japanese temple joinery. Kuma appreciated the rich texture and natural roughness of the recycled PET, using it to create a harmonious blend with wood. Additionally, Nao Tamura launched the ‘Dunne’ collection for Gandia Blasco, characterized by streamlined curves inspired by ocean waves. Muji, with Paris-based Studio 5.5, unveiled a modular micro-house during Milan Design Week. This manifesto for modern living was constructed from five functional ‘slices’ using bio-based and repurposable materials, including recycled textiles for insulation. The design prioritized sustainability and essentialist functionality, featuring natural ventilation, a white roof for heat reduction and rainwater collection, a deep window-side wooden bathtub in the 'ofuro' bathroom, and a mini Japanese 'niwa' garden. The interior boasted a metal grid system for adaptable storage and a tatami sleeping area, epitomizing micro-living efficiency. Maruni Wood Industry presented its 2025 collection, showcasing designs by Naoto Fukasawa, Jasper Morrison, and Cecilie Manz. Fukasawa's updated Hiroshima sofa included a new modular addition with an angled design, promoting comfortable conversations. Cecilie Manz introduced ‘Maku,’ a serene screen made from washi paper and hinoki cypress, designed as a versatile object that can function as a sculpture or a light source. Her expanded Shoto collection featured a high table and stools with softly rounded edges. Jasper Morrison's new Lightwood Sofa, with its circular wood armrests and soft cushions, emphasized lightness and a flat-packed design. His T&O collection also expanded to include high-end office furniture, reflecting a shift towards more inspiring workspaces. Adal Look into Nature focused on revitalizing the tatami industry by reimagining igusa (rush grass) in contemporary forms. Their exhibition featured the Haori Armchair, with a traditional kimono jacket-shaped cover, and Nagare, undulating wall panels of woven igusa inspired by natural movements. Karimoku Case (KC), Karimoku New Standard (KNS), and Mas presented distinct approaches to design. KC showcased new work designed for specific spatial projects, emphasizing serenity and comfort. KNS and Mas created a lounge space with brightly colored furnishings and prototypes, including a new paper lamp and contemporary woven baskets, set against an urban film installation. Yomosugaru, a new Japanese lighting brand, debuted minimalist outdoor lights inspired by nature. Highlights included Suiren (water lily) with flat circular lights, Shobu (iris) with brushstroke-like black forms, and Kodama, a contemporary interpretation of Japan’s tree spirits. Time & Style harmonized Japanese washi paper with Italian architecture in their renovated Largo Treves showroom, displaying their new 2025 collection of contemporary pieces in a serene setting. Hideo, specializing in high-quality freestanding bathtubs, exhibited luxuriously spacious white tubs made from eco-sustainable materials, such as Cristalplant Biobased Active. Finally, Kaikado, Japan’s oldest tea caddy makers, celebrated their 150th anniversary with a book and an exhibition of 150 tea caddies, alongside demonstrations of their craftsmanship. Nagano Interior showcased a new series of stools made from camphor wood, featuring playful finishes and a foldable wooden bookcase. #MilanDesignWeek #JapaneseDesign #FurnitureDesign #LightingDesign #SustainableDesign #Craftsmanship #MinimalistDesign #InteriorDesign #ProductInnovation

This lookbook explores the rising popularity of "Japandi" design, a hybrid interior style that merges Japanese and Scandinavian aesthetics. The approach aims to create minimal yet warm and inviting spaces through a focus on craftsmanship, tactile materials, and pared-back styling. The article showcases seven distinct projects that exemplify this design philosophy, highlighting how different designers and architects have interpreted and implemented Japandi principles in various settings. One featured project is the Archipelago House in Sweden by Norm Architects, a pine-clad holiday home that seamlessly integrates Swedish and Japanese aesthetics. The double-height living room utilizes creamy white and pale grey hues alongside light wood furniture designed in collaboration with Karimoku Case Study. A bespoke cone-shaped lantern crafted from washi paper by Japan's Kojima Shouten serves as a central lighting element, underscoring the blend of traditional craftsmanship from both cultures. Another example is Ariake's "A Quiet Reflection" exhibition at Stockholm Design Week, which presented the Japanese furniture producer's wooden furniture within the dilapidated former Mexican embassy in Stockholm. The contrast between the clean lines of the furniture and the crumbling, stuccoed walls highlighted an appreciation for texture, color, and aged craftsmanship, effectively encapsulating the Japandi ethos. Pantechnicon, a London establishment by Farrells, also embodies the Japandi style by housing shops and restaurants focused on Japanese and Nordic cultures. The interiors feature a pared-down aesthetic with extensive wood detailing for warmth, complemented by lantern-like lights and green plants that soften the minimalist design. Magdalena Keck's design for an Upstate New York Home, belonging to a family with Japanese and American heritage, showcases a fusion of these backgrounds with Scandinavian elements. The open-plan living area incorporates Danish designer Finn Juhl's furniture, Japanese pottery, and woven mats from Tokyo, alongside mid-century design and American crafts to achieve a balanced, minimalist feel. The Izumi restaurant in Copenhagen, designed by Pan-Projects and Mok Architects, serves as a practical application of Japandi. It draws inspiration from traditional Japanese restaurant interiors with translucent screens reminiscent of shoji doors, while integrating Scandinavian design through curving oak panels around the open kitchen. The designers emphasize the historical cultural exchange between Japan and Nordic countries in the field of design. Claesson Koivisto Rune's K5 Tokyo Hotel, located in a converted bank building, offers a unique interpretation of Japandi with a warmer, more tactile approach. The Swedish studio utilized saturated hues and details like thin blue ombre curtains, inspired by Japanese indigo-dyeing, and sturdy wooden room dividers reflecting Scandinavian mid-century modern design. The hotel's interior design is conceptualized around the Japanese notion of "aimai," signifying ambiguity or unclearness. Finally, the Powerscroft Road townhouse in London, renovated by Daytrip, features loosely lime-washed walls and polished concrete floors to create a "calm and serene home." Scandinavian influences are evident in the warm wood details, such as a dark-wood chair in the dining room, while East Asian elements are introduced through elegant lighting fixtures, including a Japanese paper lamp from Isamu Noguchi's Akari range. This project demonstrates how Japandi can be applied to create a tranquil and refined urban dwelling. #JapandiInteriorDesign #JapaneseDesign #ScandinavianDesign #MinimalistInteriors #TactileMaterials #Craftsmanship #InteriorInspiration #HomeDecor #ModernLivingSpaces

HOW Furniture has opened its first showroom in Singapore, offering a curated selection of luxury Japanese furniture brands, some of which are exclusive to the showroom in Singapore. The showroom caters to individuals seeking unique Japandi pieces and a blend of minimalism and functionality. One of the prominent brands featured is Hirashima, from Japan’s Fukuoka Prefecture, known for its minimalistic and multi-functional designs. Products include the Hirashima Solido Daybed, which features a unique headboard with a built-in shelf and a pull-out section for extra sleeping or lounging space. It is available in oak or walnut wood with various textile colors. The Hirashima Legare Bean Table complements the daybed with raised edges to prevent spills. The Hirashima Solido Round Chair includes a removable wooden tray. For dining, the Hirashima Agile Circle Dining Table and Agile Round Chairs offer practical features such as angled table legs for increased legroom and chairs that can be hung off the table for easy cleaning. The Hirashima Caramella Storage Mirror provides a hidden cabinet with an Oriental-style lattice shelf and a small built-in mirror, available in left or right-opening options and oak or walnut wood. Modular furnishings from the Hirashima Scala collection, including desks, shelves, and hangers, allow for customized workspaces and storage systems. Another brand, Switch Original Furniture, blends Japanese craftsmanship with an American Industrial aesthetic, featuring darker woods and textiles reminiscent of mid-century modern style. Notable pieces include the playful Switch Frien’Zoo Stool, available in various animal shapes and known for its stability, and the Switch Tile Cafe Table, which draws inspiration from tiled tables in Western cafes. This table features a solid white oak base with a mosaic tile inlay that is heat-resistant and comes in white tiles with black grout or mixed-color tiles with white grout. Masterwal, a Japanese furniture brand, specializes in walnut wood furniture, preserving the natural textures and unique imperfections of the material. Their Masterwal Wildwood Dining Table, crafted from various wood choices like walnut and oak, combines a dark solid wood tabletop with a durable iron frame and offers customizable leg options. The matching Wildwood Bench is available in walnut, red oak, or black cherry wood. The Whisky Oak Series repurposes 20-year-old whisky barrels into furniture, offering pieces with a rustic and weathered character due to trace nail marks. This series includes the Whisky Oak Dining Table and Bench, as well as the highly customizable Whisky Oak Custom Console Table and Stool, available in different widths and heights, respectively. Beyond Japanese brands, HOW Furniture also features Filobula, a Thai furniture brand known for its minimalist designs and use of solid wood at more accessible prices. The Filobula Slon Dining Table, available in natural oak or walnut stain, features legs positioned outside the tabletop for more legroom and easier seating. The accompanying Slon Bench comes in four sizes. The whimsical Filobula Macaron Ottoman, available in three sizes and two finishes, adds a playful touch, while the Macaron Stool Base offers dual functionality as a stool and a coffee table with a removable plush cushion. Additional noteworthy products include the Barketek Mini Sofa for pets, crafted from rubber wood with an optional roof, and the HOW Furniture Tree Ring Stools, sourced from Japan, which showcase unique natural wood textures and can function as stools, coffee tables, or decorative elements. The showroom also offers smaller homeware items like the In-Style Tatamist, traditional Japanese rush grass placemats available in various sizes, patterns, and colors, featuring a traditional Mesaki weave, a central wooden board, a non-slip backing, and thick cotton edging. HOW Furniture's showroom provides an opportunity to explore premium, investment-grade pieces that combine unique design with quality materials, offering long-lasting value for those looking to infuse their homes with Japanese-inspired aesthetics. #JapandiStyle #JapaneseFurniture #LuxuryFurniture #HomeDecor #MinimalistDesign #WalnutWood #SustainableFurniture #ModernLiving #SingaporeShowroom

Acne Studios, the Swedish fashion label, has opened a new flagship store in Tokyo's Aoyama district, a move that encapsulates the brand's playful yet minimalist aesthetic. The store, located on a prominent corner of Omotesando, an area known for its architectural significance, was designed by Acne Studios' founder and creative director, Jonny Johansson, in collaboration with Stockholm-based studio Halleroed. This new location replaces a previous store on a nearby backstreet and represents the culmination of Johansson's long-standing connection and inspiration drawn from Japan. The conceptual foundation for the store was inspired by the idea of a 'garage' – an open, technical space. Johansson envisioned an interior that maintained the skeleton of the original building, incorporating extensive use of glass to create a seamless flow between the inside and outside, allowing visitors to feel connected to Aoyama. This structural openness is complemented by a unique design element: softly-textured pink granite stone. This material is used to connect various spaces, extending across floors and walls, and forms two prominent, airy staircases with clean, minimalist lines and subtly indented handrails. The choice of pink for the granite was deliberate, aimed at avoiding a 'banal' or 'naïve' impression. According to Ruxandra Halleröd, co-founder of Halleroed, the team explored various textures and materials before settling on a granite that intensifies in pink hue when flamed. This approach was intended to create a mature and nuanced pink, moving beyond typical feminine connotations to become a 'pop color' that aligns with Acne Studios' slightly vague yet distinct brand identity. Contrasting the soft pink granite, the store integrates reflective metal accents, angled mirrors, and dynamic stainless steel clothing hangers that are sharply suspended from the ceiling. This blend of materials and forms adds to the store's contemporary and edgy atmosphere. Further enhancing the creative interior are bespoke elements from long-term Acne Studios collaborators. British designer Max Lamb contributed a series of pieces, including shiny soft leather seats that appear to merge with the walls, tufted carpets, and 'Blob' chairs made from hand-dyed yarns. Illumination is provided by dozens of custom strip-lighting fixtures, conceived by designer Benoit Lalloz, which are strategically placed across ceilings and integrated into metal displays. Surrealist mannequins by artist Daniel Silver introduce an additional layer of artistry. Ruxandra Halleröd emphasizes that the design thrives on contrasts, mirroring Tokyo's own blend of high-tech and historical elements. The stark, hard-material-clad building contrasts with the irregular, shiny furniture, creating unexpected visual and tactile experiences. Christian Halleröd, also a co-founder of Halleroed, highlights Japan as a significant source of inspiration, particularly for its commitment to quality and craftsmanship. The store's opening is also marked by a collaboration with artist Takuro Kuwata, who created a series of candy-bright ceramic vessels and reinvented the brand's 'Camero' bag and denim jeans with rainbow designs and trompe l'œil effects. This reflects Johansson's perspective that "fashion is supposed to be fun" and a desire for luxury to be inclusive rather than exclusive, a philosophy that deeply informs the new Tokyo flagship. #AcneStudios #Tokyo #FlagshipStore #FashionDesign #RetailArchitecture #InteriorDesign #JapaneseCraftsmanship #ContemporaryArt

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

Japanese design studio Nendo presented their solo exhibition titled “Dancing Squares” at the Art Stage gallery in Singapore, which ran from January 13th to January 16th, 2011. The exhibition showcased a collection of furniture pieces including a bookshelf, a lamp, a stool, and a table, all characterized by a design aesthetic that gives the illusion of distorted or tumbling squares. This collection aims to imbue a sense of motion into static objects. The core concept behind the “Dancing Squares” series involves assembling square elements in a way that suggests dynamic movement. For instance, the bookshelf in the collection features a design where a part of its structure appears to be frozen in a cascade of tumbling planes. This creative approach introduces variation in how books can be stacked and displayed, moving beyond traditional linear arrangements. Another piece, the stool, is designed with a distinctive twist, providing it with a visually playful appearance. This design choice contributes to the overall theme of dynamic forms within the collection. The lamps in the exhibition are engineered to roll and remain stable, thanks to their carefully arranged planes, which also allow them to cast light in multiple directions, enhancing their functional and aesthetic versatility. Perhaps one of the most striking pieces is the table, which gives the impression of leaning or falling away. Despite this precarious visual effect, the table maintains its full functionality. The design also creates an optical illusion where objects placed on its surface appear to sink into its folds and sways, challenging perceptions of stability and form. These various movements and distortions are intended to create a fascinating interplay between balance and unbalance, making the planes of the furniture seem to dance. Nendo’s exhibition at Art Stage, located at Basement 2, Hall D at Marina Bay Sands, Singapore, was open to the public without an admission fee. The photographs of the collection were captured by Masayuki Hayashi. This exhibition provided insight into Nendo’s innovative approach to design, where everyday objects are reimagined with a fluid and dynamic sensibility, transforming conventional furniture into artful expressions of motion and form. #Nendo #FurnitureDesign #Exhibition #ProductDesign #ArtStageSingapore #SquareMotif #InnovativeDesign #InteriorDesign #JapaneseDesign