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Collection by Isla Wright

Introduce The Elements of Japanese Décor into Your Home

No one knows when exactly did this happen, but in the early 21st century, western culture has become obsessed with anything that has some connection to Japan. Movies of Akira Kurosawa, karate, anime and manga are no longer exclusively Japanese- today they are a part of a global culture. Following in suit, in the past decade or two, there has been a major outbreak of interest for Japanese-inspired décor. Here are some of its elements.

Koi Fish Aquarium

First things first, Japan is an island nation, and as such sea and fish take a prominent place in their culture. To support this, Japan is world’s 7th largest fishing industry and most of their national dishes (including famous sushi) are mostly fish-based. Because of this, the fact that one of the first major elements in Japanese style decor is a Koi fish aquarium, is not a surprise. If there was ever an animal that would be a symbol of the Empire of the Setting Sun, it would definitely be this ornamental variety of a domesticated common carp. While you can put the aquarium anywhere you want, there are some special conditions that must be met, at koistory.com you can find out more regarding these prerequisites. One more thing, because of their adult size, an aquarium is never a good long-term solution for Koi.

Bonsai

Lifestyle philosophy of Zen teaches us that the only correct way to live in harmony with ourselves is to learn that all things are connected. What better way to celebrate this incredible idea than to turn your home into a genuine urban jungle. Most people are already familiar with bonsai Japanese art form of growing miniature trees in containers. Seeing how, in a modern world, most people spend almost 90% of their day indoors, this practice is beneficial not only to your décor, but to your mindset as well.

Soaking Tub

Another thing that everyone should know about Japanese is that they are people who are obsessed both with hygiene and comfort. Both of these notions can be unified in the ingenious idea of the soaking tubs. These seemingly regular tubs are usually a bit deeper and come equipped with some sort of a bench seat. In your bathroom, however, this addition may look as beautiful as it is practical. Some people simply love long baths, but their health conditions prevent them from standing for too long. In these situations, soaking tubs are indispensable.

Sliding Screens

Probably the most recognizable Japanese décor elements are the sliding screens and doors. Their best feature is definitely the fact that they do not prevent the flow of natural light like the real doors or walls do. Still, what most people are concerned with is the material they are made of. Sure, the traditional translucent paper held inside a wooden frame gives one a poor insulation. On the other hand, modern versions of them are most commonly made of quality glass panels inside a solid wooden grid.

Unique furniture pieces

In Japanese décor there are certain pieces of furniture you simply must include. Whether it is the low standing tea table or a beautiful Yanagi Butterfly Stool. Several uniquely Eastern pieces that will serve as focal points for your design. If you want the furniture that you choose to truly bring out the uniqueness of the décor, you should opt for replica furniture of the highest quality like the one offered by chicicat.com.au .

Conclusion

Of course, you are always free to create your own style and combine everything and anything you believe goes together. However, going with a certain theme in your home’s decoration does have its perks. Using just a bit of imagination and at least some of these elements will transform your home into a proper dojo in no time.

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Customers can peruse the store's catalog from a comfy sofa.
Customers can peruse the store's catalog from a comfy sofa.
At the client’s request the kitchen contains neither upper cabinets (Shino can’t reach them) nor an oven (they only used the old one once—to reheat a pizza). A modular Roche Bobois Mah Jong sofa adds a decorative flourish to the living area while maintaining as low a profile as the traditional Japanese furniture.
At the client’s request the kitchen contains neither upper cabinets (Shino can’t reach them) nor an oven (they only used the old one once—to reheat a pizza). A modular Roche Bobois Mah Jong sofa adds a decorative flourish to the living area while maintaining as low a profile as the traditional Japanese furniture.
Shōden-ji (2004) - Precursors to what we might today call “user-centered design,” Buddhist temples are scaled to the 1:2 ratio of the tatami, the rush mat designed with the human form in mind.
Shōden-ji (2004) - Precursors to what we might today call “user-centered design,” Buddhist temples are scaled to the 1:2 ratio of the tatami, the rush mat designed with the human form in mind.
Hōsen-in (2011) - The absence of windows frames the gardens as a natural extension of the meditation space. The effect is an immersive indoor-outdoor experience.
Hōsen-in (2011) - The absence of windows frames the gardens as a natural extension of the meditation space. The effect is an immersive indoor-outdoor experience.
Eikan-dō (2009) - Views, Kyoto will be released March 24 via Hatje Cantz. Additionally, Benrubi Gallery in New York will exhibit photos from Hassink's series from March 26 until May 9. Hassink will appear at the opening, as well as host a book signing at the International Center of Photography in New York on April 7.
Eikan-dō (2009) - Views, Kyoto will be released March 24 via Hatje Cantz. Additionally, Benrubi Gallery in New York will exhibit photos from Hassink's series from March 26 until May 9. Hassink will appear at the opening, as well as host a book signing at the International Center of Photography in New York on April 7.