Reveal 72+ Gorgeous 1879 Japanese Living Room Design With Many New Styles

In the late 19th century, Japan was going through a major cultural shift known as the Meiji Restoration. During this time, traditional Japanese living room design was heavily influenced by the Western world, leading to a unique blend of styles and ideas. Let's take a step back in time and explore the top 10 Japanese living room designs in 1879.

Home decor in Japan during the Meiji Era was a reflection of the country's changing values and beliefs. While traditional elements such as tatami mats, shoji screens, and low furniture were still prevalent, there was also an incorporation of Western-style furniture and decorative items. This fusion of East and West created a distinct aesthetic that is still admired today.

Tatami rooms, or washitsu, were a staple in Japanese homes during the Meiji Era. These rooms were designed to be multi-functional, serving as living spaces during the day and sleeping areas at night. The floors were covered with tatami mats, which were made of woven straw and gave the room a warm and comfortable feel. The low furniture, like zabuton and zaisu, were also designed to be used on the tatami mats.

The interior design of Japanese homes in 1879 was a mix of simplicity and elegance. Traditional elements such as wooden beams, paper screens, and sliding doors were combined with Western elements like ornate furniture and wallpaper. The result was a harmonious blend of styles that created a serene and inviting atmosphere.

The Meiji Era (1868-1912) was a time of rapid modernization in Japan. The influence of the Western world was seen in various aspects of society, including home design. In the living room, this was evident in the use of larger furniture pieces, such as sofas and armchairs, as well as decorative items like clocks, mirrors, and vases.

The traditional layout of Japanese homes in 1879 was based on the concept of "ma," which means space or gap. This design philosophy focused on the use of open spaces and natural flow between rooms. The main living area, or ima, was typically located in the center of the house and was surrounded by smaller rooms for specific purposes, like sleeping, cooking, and bathing.

Sliding doors, or fusuma and shoji, were a hallmark of Japanese interior design in 1879. These doors were made of wooden frames and paper screens and were used to divide rooms, create privacy, and control the flow of light. The intricate designs on the paper screens added an artistic touch to the overall aesthetic of the room.

The architecture of Japanese homes in 1879 was heavily influenced by traditional Japanese styles, with a few modern touches. One of the most notable features was the use of wood as the primary building material. This was due to the abundance of timber in Japan and the belief that wooden structures were more resistant to earthquakes.

The tea ceremony, or chanoyu, was an important part of Japanese culture during the Meiji Era. As such, many homes had a designated tea room, or chashitsu, where the ceremony could be performed. These rooms were designed to create a peaceful and serene atmosphere, with simple decor and minimal furniture.

Furnishings in Japanese homes during the Meiji Era were a reflection of the country's evolving tastes. Traditional items like futon mattresses, kotatsu tables, and hibachi were still used, but there was also an increase in the use of Western-style furniture, such as chairs, tables, and dressers. This fusion of styles created a unique and eclectic look.