The Shoin style house design is a popular choice in Japanese architecture. It originated in the late Edo period and consists of a large tatami room, in which guests are welcomed, with folding doors that lead to small spaces with low tables. It is characterized by a high ceiling, a curved alcove, and Shoji screens. This house design is typically built with a central courtyard to provide good airflow. Characterized by straight lines and symmetry, the Shoin style epitomizes minimalism and elegance. Traditional Shoin Style House Design
Traditional Shoin Style House Design
The Washitsu style is one of the most popular house designs in Japan. It is characterized by a large tatami room, which is usually the main living space. It is walled off from the other rooms and is used for relaxing, dining, and entertaining guests. The walls and floor of this room are covered in tatami mats and Shoji screens. The Washitsu style is often combined with traditional sliding doors, allowing for maximum flexibility in space sharing. Washitsu Style House Design
Washitsu Style House Design
Shingaleki house design is an adaptation of the traditional Shoin style. It is characterized by its large size and a raised floor, which is usually built from cypress wood. The alcove or tokonoma, as it is often called, is a carved wooden structure that features paintings and urns.* Rows of shoji screens provide ventilation and add a modern touch to the home's interior. This design is a classic choice for larger homes with large families. Shingaleki House Design
Shingaleki House Design
Kyo-machiya house design is a style of traditional Japanese architecture, dating back to the Edo period. This architecture is characterized by narrow alleys and close-fitted stone walls. The Kyo-machiya house offers an efficient interior design, with the main living space being the dango (sitting room). This room typically features tatami mats, wooden floors, and shoji screens for both protection and privacy. Kyo-machiya House Design
Kyo-machiya House Design
Katsura-Rikyu Imperial Villa House is a classic example of aristocratic Japanese architecture. This house is characterised by simple, elegant lines and a large garden that allows for a smooth transition between indoor and outdoor living spaces. The interior features tatami mats, sliding doors, and Shoji screens. Its elegant interior has made it an icon of the Japanese house design. Katsura-Rikyu Imperial Villa House Design
Katsura-Rikyu Imperial Villa House Design
The Echizen-ya house design is characterized by the use of earthen walls and tatami mats, which are made of straw and rice husks. This style of architecture dates back to the Edo period and is ideal for smaller homes. It typically consists of an open-plan lounge with tatami floors and Shoji screens. This design is popular for its ability to create a sense of tranquility and relaxation. Echizen-ya House Design
Echizen-ya House Design
The Takara-Zukuri house draws its inspiration from traditional Shinto architecture. Characterized by its steep angled roof and wide eaves, this design pays homage to the gods. The interior of the house typically includes a tatami living room, storage spaces, as well as a kitchen. Its unique roof structure is designed to keep the home cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Takara-Zukuri House Design
Takara-Zukuri House Design
The Heijou-kyou Imperial Palace House is among the most impressive house designs. It consists of a square courtyard enclosed by tiled walls, establishing a sense of seclusion and peacefulness. The interior typically includes a tatami living room and some storage areas for holding valuables. This iconic design is the perfect blend of traditional and modern elements of architecture. Heijou-kyou Imperial Palace House Design
Heijou-kyou Imperial Palace House Design
The Zen-style house design is an adaptation of traditional Buddhist architecture. It is characterized by its minimalistic style and clean lines. Tatami mats are usually used as the main living space, while Shoji screens provide ventilation and privacy. This type of architecture is ideal for creating an ambiance of tranquility and relaxation, perfect for those looking for cozy, zen-like atmosphere in the house. Zen-style House Design
Zen-style House Design
Modern Japanese house design is an adaptation of traditional Japanese architecture. It combines minimalistic elements with modern design ideas to create a stylish house design. Characterised by its clean lines and simple materials, this type of house is perfect for contemporary living. It typically consists of an open-plan living space, with tatami mats and sliding doors used to maximize the area. Modern Japanese House Design
Modern Japanese House Design
The Unique and Functional Showa Era House Design
Throughout the Showa era, which lasted from 1926 to 1989, there were numerous changes in architectural styles and construction techniques, as well as an increase in urban density and modernization. This led to a significant shift in house design, which focused on
functionality
and
efficiency
. Showa-era house designs often featured low ceilings and easy-to-maintain wooden or steel-framed structures, with open floor plans and walls of glass windows or panels to let in natural light.
Showa-era house designs often included an open veranda, which provided space for family gatherings and extra space for gardening. These outdoor spaces were also important for
energy efficiency
, as they acted as an insulation barrier between the interior and exterior of the building. Showa-era houses also had low, sloping roofs that were designed to protect against heavy snowfall.
Inside, furniture and storage were typically kept minimal to free up more space for individual family members. Simplicity was key, and many houses featured throw-rugs, mats, and washable painted walls. Showa-era furniture was also often made of rattan or bamboo, making it lightweight and easy to move. Ceilings were kept low, so that they could easily be insulated during winter.
Wooden Floors to Reduce Pollution
In addition to making interiors feel open, many Showa-era houses opted for wooden flooring instead of carpeting. This was to reduce the amount of
indoor pollution
that came from carpets, which could accumulate dust and other pollutants over time. Showa-era houses also featured roofs with integrated gutters that funneled rainwater away from the building, reducing the chances of mold and mildew.
Modernized Showa Era House Design
Today, Showa-era houses are often modernized with the addition of contemporary fixtures and furniture. Many designers also incorporate elements of traditional Japanese art and craftsmanship, such as tatami mats and wooden shoji screens, into their designs. Even with the addition of more modern materials and furnishings, the design principles of the Showa era remain intact, creating a unique and functional house for any homeowner.
