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Attributes of Japanese Interiors

Color

Japanese interiors usually use neutral, natural colors, to provide simplicity and serenity in the background. Interiors highlight the architecture and hence provide a sense of geometric order. A natural color reduces the feeling of clutter, very particular to eastern design and philosophy of ease. A statement, when made in a Japanese interior is usually through a single color or texture. The use of black in Japanese oriental rooms lends definition and form.

Texture and Contrast

Some Japanese textures and materials are cedar, rice paper, maple, bamboo, stone, and woven wicker. There is also textured silk, Tatami floor mats, and the intricate needlework of kimonos and obi's.

Japanese culture seeks to balance opposites in all spheres of life (yin and yang). Interior appearances can be opposing and contrasting, and yet achieve balance. Like polished floors with heavily textured mats, a lacquered box displayed on top of a rough wooden table, or white pebbles on a black granite ledge in the region of a tub.

Display

Western homes use an object on the perimeter, such as a fireplace, a painting, or a complicated window. Eastern interiors, on the other hand, focus on a middle object, such as a fireside, a garden, or a still life composition.

Japanese homes also commonly have display racks, called Tokonoma. Objects placed in these racks generate, either a natural feel, by displaying odd number of objects together, or a disciplined environment by using even quantity.

Japanese displays are simple and fluid and reflect the seasons, celebrations, or honored guests. This minimalist style focuses on the quality and craftsmanship.

Tea Ceremony

The tea ceremony room is the most important part of a Japanese home. It is a place for sharing, in silence, and meditation. A tearoom usually has a pool surrounded by pebbles. It signifies the importance of water, and its serenity, in eastern culture.

Furnishings

In Japan a futon is used for sitting and sleeping, or serving trays.

Antiques and Reproductions

Hibachi: A hibachi is a crafted, portable fireplace, used in old homes and shops to provide heat, warm sake, and boil water for tea. It is not a small tabletop grill as the westerners typically think of it. Originally hibachis were ash containers in wooden boxes. They were made from ceramics, lacquer, rattan and metal. Large hibachis are also used as display boxes, or bases for end tables. Smaller hibachis, are now champagne buckets or flower holders.
Kimonos: A kimono is a canvas, which is used by Japanese artists. Wedding kimonos and fans are particularly decorative and valuable. Kimonos are often displayed in a number of locations in a Japanese home.
Obis: An obi is a wide band worn with a kimono. Obi's can be hung in a group, behind a bed, to create a headboard.
Tenigui: These are rectangular cloths; used as headbands, but now function as placemats in Japanese home.
Keyaki: This is an antique door that is used as a desk or coffee table top.
Sake Kegs: act as planters, end tables, and lamp bases, depending on their size.

Japanese kites make unusual curtains, and ceiling or wall decorations for children's rooms. Smaller kites are used to make pillows.

Japan has a number of interior decorators that can be retained to help you plan the layout and decorative flair for your home or apartment in Japan. Regardless of your taste or budget, you can find an interior decorator in Japan to assist you with your making your home or apartment look the way you want it to be.

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