In today's busy lifestyles, creating a relaxing space is gaining attention. We will introduce practical ideas for creating a Japanese-style interior that incorporates traditional Japanese elements and is enhanced with modern art.
table of contents
The appeal of modern Japanese interior design
A harmony of tradition and modernity
Psychological effects and space creation
Recommended Japanese-style art works
Sumi-e and Suiboku-ga
Contemporary art and Japanese taste
Calligraphy art
Key points for interior coordination
Color and balance
Placement tips
Use of lighting
How to choose Japanese-style art
Size and spatial relationships
Recommended works by budget
summary
The appeal of modern Japanese interior design
- A harmony of tradition and modernity
The defining feature of modern Japanese interior design is the fusion of traditional Japanese aesthetics with contemporary design. By combining traditional elements such as tatami mats and shoji screens with modern furniture and artwork, new values can be created. A simple yet tasteful space blends naturally into modern lifestyles.
Of particular note is the "aesthetics of subtraction" inherent in the essence of Japanese design. The idea of achieving maximum effect with minimal decoration is in line with modern minimalism, making it possible to create sophisticated spaces. Furthermore, Japanese elements that make use of natural materials are becoming even more valuable in today's world, where interest in sustainability is growing.
Another feature of modern Japanese interior design is the creation of spaces that allow you to feel the changing of the seasons. By changing decorations such as hanging scrolls and flower arrangements according to the season, you can bring freshness and change to the space. This is a wonderful example of a modern interpretation of traditional Japanese aesthetics.
- Psychological effects and space creation
The psychological effects of modern Japanese interior design have also been attracting scientific attention. Research has shown that simple, orderly spaces reduce stress and have a relaxing effect. In addition, the use of natural materials and calming colors promotes harmony between the mind and body, creating a higher quality living space.
In particular, the concepts of "ma" and "yohaku" that are part of the Japanese aesthetic contribute greatly to the peace of mind of modern people. By avoiding unnecessary decoration and leaving a moderate amount of space, you can create peace of mind, which can also lead to improved creativity and concentration.
Furthermore, the way natural light is incorporated, a feature of modern Japanese interiors, also enhances the psychological effect. The soft light that shines through the shoji screens not only gives the space a warmth, but also evokes a sense of the changing of the seasons and time, achieving harmony with nature. The combination of these elements creates a soothing space where you can spend time in peace and tranquility, even in the midst of today's busy lifestyles.
Recommended Japanese-style art works
- Sumi-e and Suiboku-e
Sumi-e and sumi-e paintings are representative of traditional Japanese artistic expression. Their distinctive, powerful brushstrokes and delicate shading lend a deep depth and elegance to modern Japanese interiors. Even in modern spaces, the tranquil atmosphere they create has a calming effect, making them ideal for living rooms, studies, and other spaces.
Landscape paintings, in particular, stimulate the viewer's imagination by expressing natural landscapes in an abstract way, creating a meditative space. Bird and flower paintings, on the other hand, express the changing of the seasons and the dynamism of life, bringing a sense of seasonality and vitality to the space. The impression of these works can change dramatically depending on how they are framed, and using a simple black or wooden frame will help them harmonize with modern spaces.
Nowadays, high-quality digitally printed reproductions are available, and there is a wide range of options to choose from, depending on your budget, from authentic sumi-e paintings to high-quality prints. New interpretations of sumi-e paintings by young artists are also gaining attention, and works that combine traditional techniques with a modern essence further enhance the appeal of modern Japanese interiors.
- Contemporary art and Japanese taste
Works that combine contemporary art with Japanese elements breathe new life into traditional spaces. By incorporating traditional materials such as washi paper and ceramics into abstract expressions and modern colors, a unique worldview is born. In particular, works by young artists that interpret Japanese motifs in a modern way bring fresh surprises and a deep spirituality to the space.
A distinctive feature of these contemporary artworks is their bold reinterpretation of elements of traditional Japanese art. For example, new methods of expression are constantly being created, such as works that incorporate the composition and techniques of Japanese painting while making full use of modern materials and digital technology, or abstract paintings with Zen motifs. These works add a unique personality and modernity to modern Japanese interiors, enhancing the overall appeal of the space.
Additionally, methods of expression that go beyond the boundaries of traditional painting, such as installation works and mixed media art, are also attracting attention. Works that effectively use light and shadow, and three-dimensional works that treat the entire space as part of the work, bring a new dimension to Japanese modern interiors, enabling a richer spatial experience. These contemporary art works exude a unique presence, balancing tradition and innovation.
- Calligraphy Art
Calligraphy art is an artistic expression that combines traditional calligraphy techniques with modern techniques. By utilizing the strength and delicacy of kanji and kana characters and incorporating bold compositions and colors, it is elevated into modern works of art. Single-character calligraphy and abstract works in particular are popular as accents for modern Japanese interiors, bringing a unique spirituality and artistry to the space.
In modern calligraphy art, many works use not only traditional ink but also gold and silver leaf and colorful pigments. Furthermore, by applying calligraphy to a variety of materials, such as canvas, Japanese paper, glass, and metal, new possibilities for expression are expanding. Calligraphy art that utilizes digital technology is also emerging, and innovative works are being created that combine it with projection mapping and digital displays.
The appeal of calligraphy art lies in the balance between the meaning of the characters and their visual beauty. For example, works using single kanji characters such as "harmony," "heart," and "tranquility" convey their meaning visually, giving a strong message to the space. Furthermore, works that are modern arrangements of poetry and famous quotes deeply move the viewer and bring a sense of story to the space. Calligraphy art as interior design has value beyond mere decoration, and is an important element in enhancing the spirituality of the space.
Key points for interior coordination
- Color and balance
Color and balance in modern Japanese interiors are important factors in determining the harmony of the space. By effectively incorporating accent colors based on traditional Japanese colors (earth tones, browns, grays, etc.), you can create a calm yet sophisticated atmosphere. In particular, by considering the balance between the color tone of the artwork and the base color of the room, you can achieve a more unified spatial design.
- Placement tips
When arranging Japanese-style art, it is important to be conscious of the flow and harmony of the space. By interpreting traditional display spaces such as tokonoma and alcoves in a modern way and using them as focal points on the wall, you can create a natural flow of the eye. Also, by paying attention to the balance of the spacing and height of the works and ensuring an appropriate amount of white space, you can create a spacious and relaxed atmosphere.
When placing a particularly large piece of artwork, leaving ample white space around it will enhance its presence. For small pieces, it is also effective to create variation in the space by arranging them in groups or placing them on shelves or side tables. Also, in Japanese-style rooms or Japanese modern spaces, be sure to consider the relationship with shoji and fusuma screens, and arrange your artwork with consideration for the way light enters and the flow of people.
One of the joys of creating a Japanese space is changing out artwork according to the season. By selecting and arranging artwork that reflects the seasons, such as cherry blossom motifs in spring, cool ink paintings in summer, paintings of autumn leaves in autumn, and snowy landscapes in winter, you can create a richer spatial presentation. Such careful consideration is an important element in enhancing the quality of Japanese modern interiors.
- Use of lighting
Lighting is an important element in modern Japanese interiors, bringing out the best in artworks. Effective use of spotlights and indirect lighting creates shadows on artworks, making them appear more three-dimensional and expressive. In particular, soft lighting highlights the texture of materials in artworks made with Japanese paper and ink, creating a more tasteful spatial presentation.
Recently, advances in LED technology have led to an increase in lighting fixtures that allow for free adjustment of color temperature and brightness. By changing the quality of light, from daylight to incandescent color, depending on the time of day and purpose, it is possible to flexibly control the appearance of artwork and the atmosphere of the space. For example, using warmer incandescent color light at night creates a more subdued atmosphere, making Japanese artworks look even more impressive.
The expression of shadows is also an important element in modern Japanese interiors. By interpreting traditional lighting elements such as shoji screens and lanterns in a modern way and designing a space that makes use of the contrast between light and shadow, it is possible to create a space with greater depth. In particular, with ink paintings and calligraphy works, the way the light hits them can change the shade of the ink and the texture of the brushstrokes, greatly changing the expression of the work. Such lighting plans are an important element in enhancing the completeness of modern Japanese interiors.
How to choose Japanese-style art
- Size and spatial relationships
When choosing Japanese-style art, it's important to consider the balance between the size of the space where it will be installed and the artwork. As a general guideline, it's said that artwork hanging on the wall should be about 2/3 to 3/4 of the wall's width. It's also important to consider the ceiling height and ensure there's enough white space to avoid a feeling of oppression. In small spaces, arranging multiple small pieces in a balanced manner will create a sense of spaciousness and depth in the space, rather than a single large piece.
In large spaces such as living rooms and dining rooms, placing a large, eye-catching piece at the center can create an impressive spatial presentation. In particular, displaying a large piece measuring 90cm x 120cm or more in a central location such as a tokonoma alcove or wall can serve as the focal point of the entire space, achieving a richer spatial expression. On the other hand, in private spaces such as a study or bedroom, smaller pieces measuring around 30cm x 40cm or vertical pieces such as hanging scrolls are more suitable.
The orientation and shape of the artwork are also important factors. Horizontal artworks have the effect of expanding the space, while vertical artworks emphasize the height of the ceiling. In Japanese modern interiors, combining artworks of various shapes, such as fan shapes and circles in addition to squares and rectangles, can create a more dynamic spatial composition. In particular, when arranging a group of artworks of different sizes and shapes, be sure to consider the overall balance and arrange them with an awareness of the visual center of gravity.
- Recommended works by budget
The budget for Japanese-style art varies greatly depending on the size of the piece and the artist's fame. In the affordable price range (50,000-100,000 yen), options include contemporary calligraphy by up-and-coming young artists and washi paper art using printing techniques. In the mid-price range (100,000-300,000 yen), ink paintings by established artists and hanging scrolls made using traditional techniques are options, allowing you to create a more authentic Japanese space.
In the higher price range (over 300,000 yen), you can incorporate more valuable artworks, such as one-of-a-kind pieces by famous calligraphers or painters, or custom-made pieces using traditional craft techniques. However, regardless of your budget, it is important to prioritize harmony with the space and your personal sensibilities when selecting artwork.
summary
The combination of modern Japanese interior design and Japanese art brings a sense of comfort and tranquility to modern living spaces. By preserving traditional elements while adding a modern interpretation, you can create a richer, more comfortable space.
By choosing artwork that suits the size of your space and your budget, and creating it with the right placement and lighting, you can create your own special Japanese space. Why not bring more moisture into your daily life with Japanese interior design that allows you to feel the changing of the seasons?
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About the author
Author: Shiori
FROM ARTIST management staff. They write feature articles and columns, and provide operational support from an artist's perspective.
Supervisor: Shoma Toida
CEO of BUSCA LLC. Head of FROM ARTIST. Started his career as a marketer, he worked for a business company and an advertising agency before going independent. He completed marketing-related programs at several graduate schools and business schools, including the University of California, Berkeley and London Business School. He also completed the MBA core curriculum at Macquarie University and studied the importance of art in education at the University of British Columbia.
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