The traditional Japanese house is often called "Washitsu". It is a style of housing characterized by tatami mats, sliding doors and wooden structures that embodies a blend of sophistication and simplicity, thoughtfully designed to harmonize with the climate and environment. It stands as a masterpiece of Japanese architecture and minimalism.
The structure and interior of a traditional Japanese house illustrate a philosophy that values harmony with nature and simplicity. These houses are characterized by their flexibility and integration with the environment. Wooden beams and pillars are assembled without nails, allowing for flexibility in the face of frequent earthquakes. Roofs are often made of tiles or thatch, and the foundations are slightly elevated to facilitate air circulation.
Japanese living space celebrates space and functionality. Here are some key elements:
Tatamis: Woven straw mats used as floor coverings in living rooms. They have a standard size and often define the dimensions of the room.Shoji: Sliding partitions made of translucent rice paper fixed on a wooden frame, allowing flexible use of space and soft diffusion of light.
Futons: Foldable mattresses used as beds, which can be stored away during the day to maximize usable space.
Minimalism: Interiors are often stripped down and simple, with minimal furniture. This reflects the Zen philosophy of minimalism, where less is more.
Bathroom: This is a special space in a traditional home. The bathtub, often made of wood, is intended for relaxation and serves as a place of meditation and connection with the water element.
Genkan: The entrance to the house where shoes are left, as Japanese tradition dictates removing shoes before entering a room.
Engawa: A narrow veranda or corridor that surrounds the house, serving as a transition between the interior and exterior, reflecting the importance of a connection with nature in Japanese culture.
In the Japanese home, minimalism and decoration are harmoniously intertwined, reflecting a philosophy of simplicity and Zen. These concepts demonstrate a deep understanding of space and aesthetics, rooted in a rich cultural tradition.
Traditional Japanese homes feature flexible, uncluttered spaces. Sliding partitions allow rooms to be reconfigured as needed, and foldable furniture is stored away when not in use. Materials like wood, bamboo, rice paper, and straw highlight natural beauty and create a peaceful atmosphere.
The Zen Garden
The Japanese garden, also known as a rock garden, dry garden, or Zen garden, is an iconic feature of the traditional Japanese home. This minimalist garden is a work of art, a visual meditation, and a space where nature and man harmonize.
Rooted in the principles of Buddhism, the Japanese Zen garden is designed to stimulate meditation and reflection, not only on natural beauty but also on life itself. The minimalist design represents purity and tranquility, encouraging deep contemplation.
A traditional Zen garden has much fewer plants than a western garden. Plants are used sparsely between rocks, sand or gravel and water, often in an attempt to recreate a micro cosmos, representing islands and their vegetation.
To this purpose, low fences and gates are often used to frame the garden, creating a boundary between the outside world and the meditative space.
In the traditional Japanese house, the Zen garden is not separated from the interior of the house. It is designed to be seen from the main rooms and Engawa corridors, creating a harmonious integration between the interior and the exterior. The garden thus becomes part of the flow of life in the house, inviting reflection and peace.
Minimalism and decoration in the traditional Japanese home express a profound appreciation of beauty in simplicity. These principles inspire design and decoration worldwide, contributing to Japan's cultural heritage.