At our studio, our passion lies in creating homes that offer serenity amidst urban life. Our recent ‘Essence of Japan’ project – a transformation of a 1960s terrace in West London – is a perfect example of how we blend Japanese design philosophy with modern living to create a harmonious retreat.
The project was featured in Elle Decoration online in September 2023. You can read the full article from here.
Japanese Design Meets London Living
Our clients, who has recently moved from Hong Kong, desired a home infused with authentic Japanese elements. They wanted a space that reflected their deep appreciation for Japanese culture, while also serving as a tranquil sanctuary for their family. The property, previously neglected, needed extensive renovation to bring this vision to life.
Essence of Our Japanese-Inspired Design
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Minimalist Material Palette
Staying true to Japanese principles of simplicity, we employed a restrained palette of oak and concrete throughout the home, fostering a cohesive and calming atmosphere. -
Authentic Craftsmanship
We collaborated with Japanese-trained craftspeople and sourced materials directly from Japan, ensuring the authenticity of the design. This is highlighted by the bespoke tatami mattresses made in Tokyo, which add a genuine touch of Japanese heritage to the home. -
Flexible Living Spaces
We introduced a versatile partition in the living room, incorporating traditional Shoji paper sliding screens. This allows the space to seamlessly transition between an office and a guest bedroom, reflecting the flexibility inherent in Japanese interiors. -
Natural Acoustics & Allergy Considerations
To accommodate the client’s dust allergy, we minimised fabric use and integrated wooden slatted acoustic panels, alongside a bespoke grass rug from Japan. This approach enhances the acoustics while maintaining a natural, allergen-friendly environment.
Blending Tradition with Modernity in Key Areas
Japanese-Inspired Entryway
Recognising the importance of entryways in Japanese homes, we extended the hallway to include ample shoe storage and a console drawer with an integrated mirror, creating a graceful transition from outdoors to indoors.
Functional Kitchen Design
The kitchen was designed with a focus on functionality, incorporating grey marble countertops that offer a touch of elegance while maintaining the minimalistic aesthetic.
Authentic Bedroom Experience
Honouring our clients’ preference for futon sleeping, we installed custom tatami mats and a wall-to-wall oak headboard, inspired by a boutique hotel in Nara, Japan, merging comfort with cultural authenticity.
Luxurious Bathroom Renovation
We reconfigured the first floor to accommodate a spacious bathroom featuring both a bathtub and a separate shower, using grey marble to align with the home’s serene palette.
Sustainability at the Core
Sustainability is a cornerstone of our design philosophy, perfectly aligning with Japanese design principles. In this project, we incorporated:
- Natural materials
- An electric heat pump for energy efficiency
- Underfloor heating to enhance comfort while reducing energy consumption
The Result: A Modern Japanese Oasis in London
By thoughtfully integrating Japanese design principles with the demands of modern living, we have created a tranquil oasis in the heart of West London. This home not only honors our clients’ cultural heritage but also stands as a testament to the power of thoughtful design in nurturing well-being and providing a sanctuary from city life.
We take pride in our ability to translate cultural aesthetics into functional, beautiful living spaces. This project is a shining example of how we create homes that are visually stunning, deeply personal, and sustainably designed – truly embodying the best of Japanese and modern interior design.