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Collection by Zach Edelson

Designs Inspired by Japanese Architecture and Craft

Dwell and it readers value simplicity and quality, so it's no surprise that Japan—with its emphasis on craft and thoughtful living—is a frequent wellspring of inspiration.

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The semi-outdoor space extends the living room outward. Inside, a layer of glass sliding doors further facilitate breezes. The occupants can enjoy the sound and smell of rain behind shelter.
The semi-outdoor space extends the living room outward. Inside, a layer of glass sliding doors further facilitate breezes. The occupants can enjoy the sound and smell of rain behind shelter.
A traditional genkan (a Japanese entryway) was part of the architectural program early on. Shoes are removed before entering the main living space, which is elevated six inches above the floor level of the entryway. The blonde wood is rift-cut white oak.
A traditional genkan (a Japanese entryway) was part of the architectural program early on. Shoes are removed before entering the main living space, which is elevated six inches above the floor level of the entryway. The blonde wood is rift-cut white oak.
A Japanese hinoki bowl and stool from Mjölk sit next to a custom hinoki bathtub by Bartok Design in the tub room.
A Japanese hinoki bowl and stool from Mjölk sit next to a custom hinoki bathtub by Bartok Design in the tub room.
Rahman did her own landscaping in the garden outside her house. The cedar fence was made with planks that were charred and sealed following the ancient Japanese shou sugi ban technique, which is supposed to make the wood resistant to fire, rot, and insects.
Rahman did her own landscaping in the garden outside her house. The cedar fence was made with planks that were charred and sealed following the ancient Japanese shou sugi ban technique, which is supposed to make the wood resistant to fire, rot, and insects.
Custom shoji-inspired screens of Roberts’s design conceal the closet and extend to provide privacy for the adjacent shower and soaking tub.
Custom shoji-inspired screens of Roberts’s design conceal the closet and extend to provide privacy for the adjacent shower and soaking tub.
Like many traditional Japanese bathrooms, Wilkin and Pini’s is clad almost entirely in wood.
Like many traditional Japanese bathrooms, Wilkin and Pini’s is clad almost entirely in wood.
The home boasts a traditional Japanese genkan, an entryway that's a couple of steps down from the main level.
The home boasts a traditional Japanese genkan, an entryway that's a couple of steps down from the main level.
Sculptor and painter Edward Crumpton, a childhood friend of Knight, helped the architects identify features and constraints that would make for a more creative workspace. Crumpton's own work, including The Mariner's Way, a weaving project inspired by the knot-tying of past generations of sailors, was incorporated into the final design. The charred exterior was inspired by his charcoal sketches.
Sculptor and painter Edward Crumpton, a childhood friend of Knight, helped the architects identify features and constraints that would make for a more creative workspace. Crumpton's own work, including The Mariner's Way, a weaving project inspired by the knot-tying of past generations of sailors, was incorporated into the final design. The charred exterior was inspired by his charcoal sketches.