A Japanese style dining room takes the best of east-meets-west by combining the minimalist principles of traditional Japanese design with contemporary western lifestyles. The result is simple lines paired with warm earth tones; rich wood finishes married to lighter organic elements and dining furniture artfully arranged to create balance and harmony. Shape also plays an important role in Japanese dining room design: it’s important for each piece of furniture to work in concert to create a calming and tranquil space that is appealing to the senses.

To create a Japanese style dining room that is soothing and harmonious, start with a color palette that reflects natural elements. Choose soft grays and greens for rocks and leaves; earth-toned yellows for sand and sun; washed-out neutrals for waterfalls, mists and clouds. In a traditional Japanese style room, the walls are typically free of decoration, but one featured print or a choice grouping of smaller sized photographs would be acceptable in a contemporary Japanese dining room design.

When selecting furniture for a Japanese designed dining room, choose furnishings that have a definitive purpose. While esthetics certainly play a role in Japanese interior design, practicality is equally important. No furniture piece should be picked solely for its esthetic or decorative value. In fact, Japanese style dining furniture generally has no or very little decoration. The furniture should stand low to the ground, be made of wood and arranged in such a way that “empty space” is featured in room’s décor as much as the furniture is. It is this “push-pull” effect between empty and occupied that creates contrast and visual interest.

In Japanese interior design the proper lighting is important. Any available natural light should be made the most of and used to its best advantage. Lighting can be softened by rice paper, silk or white glass shades. When accessorizing a Japanese style dining room, adhere closely to the essentials or things that have a specific purpose, such a glass vase, candles or shoji screen-like window treatments or room dividers. The overall effect should be not too bare and definitely not cluttered or cramped. You might have to experiment to get the right balance, but it will be worth it in the long when your dining room is a tranquil and elegant example of Japanese interior design.

In Japanese interior design less is definitely more, but even more so in the living room. Space is very much a part of the overall plan. Living room furniture is arranged from an “inside out” principle, meaning that furnishings are typically placed in the center of the room and then balanced with open space. This lets each piece “breathe,” creating a Zen environment that is ideal for down-time, kicking back after a long week at work or a stylish and sophisticated place to entertain friends.

The furniture in a Japanese style living room should be chosen carefully – each piece in the room should not only serve a definite purpose, it also should work in harmony with the other furnishings in the room. Lines and profiles are soothing, unassuming and restful. Horizontal lines in Japanese furniture design are particularly important because they represent man’s relation to the earth. This is why living furniture sits low to the ground. Furniture and accessories like lamps or rugs should be made of or incorporate natural materials like wood, bamboo, wool and rice paper.

The Global Furniture USA 757 Series 3 Piece Sofa Set integrates the essential elements of Japanese design. The sofa, loveseat and arm chair are all low profile. Lines, while gently curved to emphasize shape and create visual interest, are simple and calming. The base and legs are made of wood.

When designing a Japanese style living room, accessorize very sparingly. Color palettes for walls, fabrics and curtains will be neutrals or earth tones. While every piece of furniture in a Japanese style living room is chosen for its functionality, it should also be esthetically pleasing as well. Use a focal point such as an entertainment center, bookcase

or armoire to anchor the room. Create balance and harmony by arranging the furniture in the space so that each elements “plays nice” with the other décor elements in the room. Incorporate natural elements into your Japanese interior design with a table lamp that has a rice paper shade; a sisal area rug or bamboo window treatments. Traditional Japanese design calls for bare walls; if you wish to hang framed pictures, prints or photographs, limit the number to one or two larger sized ones or several sets of a group made up of no more than four small pictures in each group. The result will be a living space that is truly comfortable while being tranquil and serene.

Since Japanese style interior design emphasizes balance, natural tones and the subtle and calming use of texture, it is an ideal choice for decorating a bedroom. For most of us, our bedroom is a sanctuary from our busy lives. Japanese bedroom furniture is low to the ground, to promote the feeling of stability and being centered. It also has a design benefit of making the room appear larger and more spacious. In the quest for balance, Japanese interiors incorporate the use of open spaces, contrast and functionality into the interior design.

To create a Japanese style bedroom, start with a color scheme that imitates nature, such the grays and greens of foliage; earth toned neutrals of sand, sun-bleached stone or weathered wood; and muted shades of earth and sky. Once the walls have been painted, plan to keep them relatively free of framed pictures, opting instead for one choice print or photograph.

In keeping with Japanese design principles choose bedroom furniture pieces that have a specific function; the more multi-purpose each one is, the better. Japanese bedroom interiors can never have enough functionality. Japanese style furniture is typically devoid of decorative detail, with simple lines and beautifully shaped and uncomplicated profiles. Instead of “unnecessary” decoration, visual interest, as shown by the headboard of the Tradewins East Village Kobe King Dark Wood Low Profile Panel Bed 3 Piece Bedroom Set, is often created with specific architectural features like angled legs and the geometric slatted design of the bed.

A low-to-the-ground platform bed is a must-have when designing a bedroom in the Japanese style. A platform bed, with a wood or upholstered headboard or one without any headboard at all is a viable option. Case goods such as dressers, nightstands and armoires commonly have oversized iron or bronze drawer handles and/or door pulls. In a Japanese style bedroom furniture pieces do not necessarily have to match one another in the “western” sense. When creating balance by using contrast it may be to your advantage to incorporate differently colored or shaped items. The connective tissue, if you will, should be simple angular or geometric profiles that are softened by tapered, gently curved or “layered” lines; simple lines will work perfectly with the other Japanese style pieces that you want to include in the room.

When accessorizing and adding those finishing touches, in Japanese interior design, less really is the way to go. The space should be fluid and uncluttered. Natural materials, like bamboo and rice paper, are common elements in Japanese design. These are easy to add to a Japanese style bedroom décor in the guise of lamps, light fixtures, vases and decorative screens. Don’t forget about silk – place silk cushions and/or accent pillows on the bed; use silk curtains with sheers for the window treatment; select a bed bench or accent chair with silk upholstery. Ideally floors should be bare. If this is not an option, pick an area carpet or wall-to-wall carpeting that has an organic look and feel.

Japanese style is characterized by minimalism: dining room furniture virtually has no architectural or decorative detail. The emphasis of Japanese interior design, whether it’s a dining room, living room or bedroom, is on space. Whereas Western design practices focus on artistically filling the space, Japanese interiors incorporate open spaces into the décor. Typically, the furniture is centered in the room and the space around each piece of furniture as well as the furniture grouping as a whole is the point of the interior design.

Japanese style décor is soothing, unassuming and restful. Therefore color palettes (from Benjamin Moore) will project these qualities while reflecting nature. Earth tones like deep browns and muted reds are popular choices as are neutrals like beige, taupe and gray.

A Japanese dining table commonly has short legs and stands closer to the ground than Western style dining tables. But you can still capture the flavor of a traditional Japanese dining table by selecting a standard height table with lines that are calming minimalist in approach. The Somerton Enchantment 7 Piece Dining Set is beautifully appointed; lines are simple yet visual interest is created by the angled legs of the dining table and the unique slatted design of the backs of the dining chairs.

In a Japanese style dining room each piece of furniture has a specific function and purpose; no piece should be chosen solely for its esthetic value. The Sitcom Hida Collection Buffet has both style and purpose. Buffets or sideboards increase a dining room’s functionality by providing a place to conveniently store tableware and table linens in the room in which they will be needed and used.

A Japanese interior design dining room brings the outside in through natural elements like floor lamps and table lamps with rice paper shades; furniture pieces with bamboo and stone accents; and accessories like bonsai and water fountains. The Bluworld Innovations Tabletop Water Fountain in Dark Copper – Mini Moonshado would be the ideal accent piece to place on the buffet.

Light, especially natural light is an essential part of a Japanese interior design dining room. Another way to incorporate natural materials into the room’s design is through the shade of the Adesso Wright Tall Floor Lamp, which is made of silk. And because this floor lamp is also a shelving unit, it makes it an ultra-functional addition to a Japanese style dining room.

Japanese interior design for the living room will incorporate natural materials, like bamboo and rice paper. Use of natural light is maximized. Furniture is generally low to the ground. Horizontal lines, which represent man’s relation to the earth, are very prominent in Japanese decor.

Color schemes tend to imitate nature, the grays and greens of foliage contrasted with warm wood tones. Earth tones and neutrals that give the space a calming aspect are the best choices. In keeping with spirit of this minimalist style, once the walls have been painted, plan to keep them free of framed pictures or wall hung photographs.

If bare floors aren’t an option for you, choose the L.A. Rugs Nature Style Camel Rug. The texture of this area rug has a sisal or other grass-like appearance.

The Kathy Ireland Home by Omnia Furniture Leather Bradford 2 Seat Sofa has clean lines, made of an organic material and is available in earth tones and neutral colors.

The Tema Kyoto Square Wood Top Coffee Table is the prescribed Japanese style height, low to the ground. Its profile is simple and clean. Wood, of course, qualifies as a natural element.

The recessed side panels of the Furnitech Contemporary Asian End Table add subtle detail to the Japanese interior design.

The Modloft Ann 123″ Wall Entertainment Unit is “close to the earth,” designed with clean, smooth lines and keeps the room from feeling too spare while filling the space without making it appear cluttered.

Furniture pieces should be selected carefully. According to Japanese interior design, each piece should have a specific purpose and function in conjunction with the other furnishings in the room. When accessorizing a Japanese style living room, do so in moderation. You don’t want the room crowded with “non-essentials.” The overall effect should be tranquil, serene and uncomplicated.

The Japanese cultural influence is gaining popularity in interior decorating. It’s easy to see why it’s so admired – Japanese Interior Design has a soothing, Zen effect with its use of natural fibers and subtle colours. Since the design style is so simple, it isn’t a challenge to re-decorate your entire home with a Japanese flair.

To master Japanese Interior Design, remember to keep your pieces subdued with little to no detail!

One of Japanese home design features is furniture that’s as low to the ground as possible – it gives off the feeling of steadiness. So, when decorating your living room, try to find a sofa with a minimal amount of height.

Lifestyle Solutions Casual Convertibles Sorrento Convertible Sofa in Chestnut

A sofa with a wood base incorporates the natural, fresh look of Japanese décor.

Sitcom Hida Collection Oatmeal Sofa

For Japanese Interior Design get a coffee table, you’ll want to stick to the same elements – short, wood-enhanced pieces give off a Japanese vibe.

GFI Furniture Sophia Rectangular Modern Coffee Table in Wenge Finish

Modloft Mott Low-Profile Coffee Table in Walnut

Decorate your living room with pieces made from stone. Its neutral grey shade is ideal for completing a Japanese Design-themed room.

AA Importing Large Kimono Vase

Zodax Four Wick Large Scented Candle Pot

In your bathroom, try to integrate straight, clean lines, and different wood fibers. Your sink and faucet should be extremely minimal in detail, and neutral in colouring.

Avanity Prado Vanity

Accessorize using bamboo-woven pieces – this natural fiber is practical, strong, and very well suited to the Japanese interior design style.

Selamat Designs Woven Bamboo Tissue Box

Selamat Designs Woven Bamboo Apothecary

The bedroom is a place for you to unwind, and what better way to make it a peaceful place than by updating it with a Japanese design feel. Platform beds are heavily influenced by Japanese design – they’re close to the ground and normally constructed of hardwood.

Sitcom Edo Japanese Style Platform Bed

Look for small details in end tables that make them stand out from all the ordinary options out there.

Edo End Table with Bowl

To add some design aspect to your Japanese-themed bedroom, consider adding a room divider to your space. They’re useful for covering the window, hiding electronic wiring, or they can be placed against the wall for visual interest.

Selamat Designs Classic Woven Teak Room Divider

Need to light up your space? Floor lamps with paper shades give off a warm glow while maintaining a Japanese look.

Adesso Gyoza Rice Paper Shade Floorchiere Floor Lamp

Low tables and floor pillows are normally used in a Japanese design inspired dining room. If you want to keep up with the Japanese style, put a large coffee table in your dining room, since they have short legs.

Sitcom Hida Collection Coffee Table

If you plan on using a normal-height dining room table, find one that fits Japanese design criteria.

Modloft Cliff Extendable Wood Dining Table

Consider seating your dining room table with stools or benches – they are normally lower to the ground.

Modloft Cliff Modern Wood Dining Stool

When accessorizing outside, make “tranquility” your main theme. Install an exterior shade to cover your patio from the blaring sun, shield from bugs, or just as a decoration.

Coolaroo Designer 6′ x 6′ Roll Up Shade – Sandalwood

Outdoor fountains in earth tones with natural accents represent the Japanese feeling of serenity. The sound of flowing water is supposed to drown out the rest of the world and put you in a Zen-like state.

Alfresco Home ISHI Fountain with Pump

Make your patio suitable to sit on by throwing down an outdoor rug. Keep colours and pattern to a minimum – a simple Japanese-influence rug will make your patio more inviting.

Couristan Recife Indoor/Outdoor Collection – Summit/Natural-Cocoa

Final tips on turning your living space into a Japanese Inteior Design retreat:

Get rid of that clutter! Since Japanese style is all about minimalism, less is definitely more.

Japanese plants like bamboo and flowers like orchids look beautiful as table centerpieces.

Keep the walls clean. Japanese design doesn’t particularly focus on wall art or photo frames.

Nicolette Interior Design Diva

Who doesn’t long for a bedroom that is truly an escape from daily life?  With its calming colors, low profile furniture and limited clutter, Modern design and Japanese Bedroom Design work very well together and can help you create the room of your dreams.

Furniture that is low to the ground is common in a modern setting and is a staple in Japanese Bedroom design.  The idea behind the low profile is to give thefeeling of stability to the user.  A platform bed is the perfect bed in this setting and the Fashion Bed Kyoto Black Platform Bed is an affordable choice to create thislook.  The design of this bed is simplicity at its best.  The simple lines will work perfectly with other Japanese style furniture you may have. An Asian screen or framed Kimono can be hung above to add some color and design.

If eco-friendly products are important to you the Retro Japanese Zen Platform Bed by Lifestyle Solutions should meet your needs.  Again, the simple lines of this bed and the large, flared headboard make it a good choice for your Asian inspired bedroom.

For a modern japanese bedrrom style check out the Modloft Monroe Platform Bed. While the dark solid pine finish is not commonly found in Japanese Bedrrom design, the low horizontal lines make it a perfect choice.  The added bonus of hidden storage behind the doors can reduce the need for other furniture pieces in the room

The goal in Japanese design is to keep furnishings and decorations to a minimum.  Most everything in the room should be functional and practical.  But a bedroom needs additional furniture such as nightstands and dressers.  While many of the beds mentioned have matching pieces, it is not necessary to have everything match.  However, it is important in Japanese Design to keep the woods in the same color tone.

Or, consider the Sitcom Edo Japanese 6 Drawer Double Dresser in Mahogany. Its distinct Japanese influence is executed in theslim-line drawer pulls and the frame-on-frameside panels.

Sitcom features the same dresser in a chest form – the Edo Japanese 6 Drawer Tall Chest. The simplicity of both these accent pieces works well in a Japanese-inspired space.

The entire Edo collection by Sitcom has many accent pieces that could be used in a modern or Asian-style room. The Edo Japanese Style Nightstand frames off a bed or a dresser, while the Edo Japanese Mirror can be mounted onthe wall to give the illusion of more space.

Screens are often found in Japanese Bedroom interiors, and they can serve many purposes. For example, placed behind a platform bed, they make a very interesting headboard. Maybe you want to hide the electronics in the room when not in use. If your room requires some additional privacy from other areas, a screen becomes the perfect room divider.

They can even be placed in front of a window or sliding glass door to block the light and act as a window treatment. Take a look at the Japanese Hazelnut Screen Folding Room Divider Screen, with its stripped bamboo panels for a natural look, and the Nextime Timeless Room Divider Wall Clock that is hung from the ceiling with steel wire suspension (andtells the time, too!). They offer a simple Japanese feel that will compliment any modern bedroom.

Color choices are important when you are trying to create a relaxing, Japanese feel to your room. Muted colors inspired by nature are best.  This would include soft grays, greens and light browns.

Your bedding should be simple in style and color. The mantra here is “Less is more”. Avoid the use of multiple throw pillows, fluffy bed skirts and lots of pattern.  Instead, opt for soft solids. If you must have some pattern, choose Japanese embroidery on an accent pillow.

Lighting is soft and preferably comes from a natural source such as windows and skylights. But tables and floor lamps are necessary, so choose pieces made from natural materials such as bamboo and wood and add paper shades.

Natural flooring materials are preferred. Wood floors covered with fibre rugs, such as tatami mats, contribute to the quiet and serene feel you are looking for in Japanese design.

Mixing Japanese design with your modern pieces will add texture and warmth to your room and create that retreat you’ve been longing for.

Nicolette Interior Design Diva