 Japan has a time-tested tradition of building with wood as mountains, foliage and forest resources dominate the landscape. The country possesses the oldest and largest wooden buildings in the world, many of which are temples. Japan's distinctive method of wood-based architecture is ideally suited for the country's humid climate. Very refined carpentry skills that have been developed over the centuries are seen in modern structures. Many wonderful buildings created by today's Japanese architects have captured the attention of the world
Japanese houses have thin walls because of the mild climate and partly covered, slanted, and somewhat curved roofs because there can be an abundance of rain during summer. Wood is the traditional building material for Japanese houses. It makes them well ventilated, which is important during the humid summer months. The disadvantages are that earthquakes and fires can damage the houses easily. Today, concrete and steel are also widely used.
Domestic Architecture
Consideration for the natural environment is often reflected in Japanese structures. During the Kamakura period, the Shinden-Zukuri was custom-made for the samurai class, and clusters of separate buildings were joint under one roof. Long corridors that surrounded a landscaped garden and pond joined a number of stylish rectangular houses. During this period the standard for home architecture was set and is still maintained.
The main style of a Japanese house for the upper class typically reflects both refinement and simplicity. Interior posts form a supporting frame for the roof. Exterior walls generally consist of movable panels that slide in grooves. Wood panels are used at night or in rainy weather which rotate with screens of mounted rice paper, used in warm weather. The interior of the house is divided by screens called Shoji. Important rooms are provided with a Tokonoma, a rack for the display of flowers and a few carefully selected objects of art. Often a separate space is set aside for the tea ceremony, either built-in the house or constructed as a porch in the garden.
Japan has many private architects working for architecture firms or in solo practice that can assist with the design of your home or apartment, whether you are building from scratch or remodeling. It is recommended that you obtain and check references before retaining your architect. It is also important to clearly establish and agree upon the scope of work and fees for the specific project.
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