Japanese-inspired homes in Singapore are becoming increasingly common, and for good reason. Aside from its aesthetic allure, Japanese interior design lends itself well to mass appeal because of its innately calming atmosphere. This BTO that looks like a luxurious Kyoto hotel takes the Japanese influence to the next level, with Kyoto inspired decor that gives it a peaceful feel.
Teahouse-style living room with an abundance of wood
Image credit: @hockhoon_
Visitors to this home are first welcomed by a genkan-style foyer, a hallmark of Japanese homes—the first sign of this home’s Japanese influences. As the wooden shoji slides open, visitors are greeted by a living room adorned with luxe artisan wood.
Image credit: @hockhoon_
Just like traditional teahouses in Kyoto, the design foregoes soft finishings like sofas, rugs, or curtains, instead opting for minimalist furniture. Case in point: the traditional Japanese Horigotatsu that takes up the centre of the raised living space.
Image credit: @hitotema.home
The table is incorporated into a recessed floor, allowing homeowners to replicate the Japanese low-to-the floor seating style without the need to cross their feet. The cosy living area creates an environment where families can be close to each other, creating a focus on the people, rather than the space.
Alcove to display katanas and Japanese liquor
Image credit: @hockhoon_
With its focus on the human element, it’s only fitting that the secondary highlight of the living room is the alcove display, where an array of personal trinkets are on display. These shelves are a mainstay in Japanese homes where traditional items like scrolls and ikebana are normally displayed.
Here, homeowners may show off collectibles as an expression of their interests. Items on display act as excellent conversation starters, whether it’s a collection of exotic items, or an exceedingly rare vintage Japanese liquor. The wooden shoji, which separates the foyer from the living space, doubles up as a door for this alcove display..
Peppered with tranquil lighting from shoji lamps
Image credit: @hockhoon_
In the same vein as the sliding door, shoji-style paper lamps complete the Japanese aesthetic, illuminating the home with moody diffused light. The use of natural light is a common feature in zen-inspired interior design, and these lamps complement the natural light diffusing through the paper-covered windows.
Image credit: @hockhoon_
Shoji screens around the house to promote a bright interior
To further amplify natural light, translucent rice paper screens around the home act as internal windows that ensure every room is well-lit and bright. They also create sightlines into each room, creating an airy open-concept layout without the need to hack too many walls.
Small but efficient galley-style kitchen
Image credit: @hockhoon_
The thoughtful utilisation of space extends to the galley-style kitchen, which maximises every inch of space. It also clusters key appliances together, ensuring every element of the kitchen is within arm’s reach.
Singapore BTO that looks like a super luxurious Kyoto hotel
With its cosy atmosphere and zen vibes, fans of Japanese interiors will want to take notes from this home with its traditional Kyoto influence. With its simple yet luxe decor, this BTO strikes the perfect balance between modern and traditional.
For more Japanese home inspiration:
- Modern Japanese 4-room HDB with minimal genkan foyer
- $120k Japanese-inspired 5-room HDB with organic curves
- Traditional Japanese townhouse-inspired HDB
Cover image adapted from: @hockhoon_
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