Tatami mats are used in Japanese homes.
Creating a Japanese-style room in your home will provide an area of tranquility and peace where you and your family members can relax. Japanese homes are based on the idea of simplicity and have little clutter. Neutral colors are used and natural elements like wood furniture and wall and grass mats help bring nature inside. Elements of Japanese design can be included in one room or a whole house to create a look of balance and harmony. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Stretch tatami mats across the floor. Tatami mats are traditional Japanese mats made out of fibers such as straw. The mats are pulled tight and attached to the floor, so they become part of the flooring, compared to throw rugs that are set on top of the flooring. Optionally, use hardwood flooring in a shade darker than your furniture and put tatami mats on top of it.
2. Paint the walls a neutral color. Off-whites, creams and other light earth-tones are commonly found in Japanese rooms. Ceilings should also be a light color. These light, neutral tones help promote the calming, balanced look that Japanese decor is based on.
3. Decorate a bedroom with simple furniture. A traditional Japanese bedroom has a futon mattress without a frame. The mattress is stored in a deep closet during the day and the room is otherwise bare. A modern Japanese-style room can have either a futon couch to sleep on or a simple, unadorned, platform bed.
4. Simplify your kitchen to give it a Japanese-style appearance. Japanese kitchens have a gas stove, small fridge, microwave oven and rice cooker. Ovens and freezers are not commonly found. Use a wide, low table for eating. Cushions are placed around the table and diners sit on their knees or cross-legged to eat at the table.
5. Add Japanese elements to your decor by using rice paper in lamps, wall decorations and room dividers. Create an alcove in the wall which can hold religious items, Japanese art or a simple floral arrangement. Tabletop fountains, small bamboo trees and sand gardens are used to add tranquility and nature to the home.
Tags: commonly found, Japanese homes, Japanese-style room, Tatami mats, traditional Japanese