| The use of diffused light is another basic concept. | | | | The colors of Japanese interior design are subdued, |
| Living and sleeping areas are flexible and are usually | | | | giving preference for soft colors that are quietly |
| defined by movable screens. In some sleeping areas | | | | restrained. These colors are taken from neutral |
| there are futons placed on the floor at night, then | | | | palettes, incorporating grays, beiges, browns and |
| folded up during the day and stored away which | | | | off-whites. Japanese color schemes are mainly |
| allows for more living space. While this seems strange | | | | monochromatic and lend themselves to dark |
| to Westerners, it is the Japanese way of life. | | | | hardwoods, polished concrete, bamboo or stones and |
| Japanese interior design is based on a simple form of | | | | pebbles. |
| design if you understand the fundamental principles. | | | | The sliding doors in Japanese interior design are |
| Ignoring these principles will make the creation of | | | | another basic concept. These doors are also known |
| Japanese interior design difficult for the average | | | | as shoji screens, fusuma doors and ranma transoms. |
| interior designer. | | | | Another standard in Japanese homes are the floors. |
| The Japanese Home - Secluded Privacy | | | | These innovative floors are a tatami mat flooring |
| The Japanese home offers a private sanctuary hidden | | | | system. The tokonoma alcove is another often-seen |
| from the chaos and hectic pace of the outside world. | | | | facet of the Japanese interior design home. The |
| The traditional dwellings are made from natural, organic | | | | alcove is used as a special place for family treasures |
| materials. These might include clay, straw, paper, | | | | and artwork or seasonal decorations. One might find a |
| woods (both hardwoods and bamboo) and stone, just | | | | bonsai, a hanging scroll or ikebana displayed in the |
| to name a few. Japanese interior design also makes | | | | tokonoma alcove. This alcove can be compared to |
| use of water, natural light and greenery. Again, the | | | | the role of the mantle over the fireplace in a Western |
| incorporation of ying and yang is seen as the inside | | | | home. |
| dweller brings the outside in to live in harmony. This | | | | If this type of interior design fascinates you, and you |
| timeless design provides a source of fascination to | | | | are interested learning more, take the time to select |
| most designers. | | | | and read an interesting interior design book. And a |
| The Japanese room is famous for its clean lines and | | | | book on Japanese interior design is the book you |
| uncluttered appearance. While there is furniture in a | | | | should read because the Japanese are indeed a |
| Japanese room, you will not find very many pieces. | | | | fascinating culture to study and observe. |