This machiya-inspired condo might catch you off guard if you’re used to the light wood aesthetics and Muji colour palettes of Japanese-inspired homes. For the uninitiated, machiya are the traditional townhouses that typify the Kyoto cityscape, but can be seen in other parts of Japan too.
Whilst it remains very much wood-dominant in terms of design, this 2-bedroom condo reno by Studio 21 gives the classic machiya theme a stylistic spin through the generous application of stonework.
Living room with an impressive rock facade
Image credit: Studio 21
The foyer is stone-themed, bearing the likeness of a Japanese genkan, being constructed of black granite slabs against a white pebble bed.
Leaving a small white pebbled area for shoes adds to the notion of transitioning from an outdoor space to an indoor one, whilst sleek wardrobes sporting recessed handles and a fluted panel wall add a sense of modern sensibility.
Image credit: Studio 21
Long-time readers would recognise the overall wood and beige palette of Japanese-inspired interiors. And whilst the wood coving and fluted ceiling beam are indeed tasteful touches, the rough hewn rock facade is arguably what takes centre stage here.
The rich, uneven texturework juxtaposes well against the smooth surfaces of its surroundings, and adds an earthy atmosphere to the home.
Kitchen with a miniature “izakaya” peninsula
Image credit: Studio 21
The kitchen peninsula looks like it would be completely at home in an izakaya, with the marble slab surface and backlit glass cabinet showcasing the homeowner’s selection of Japanese spirits.
Image credit: Studio 21
The kitchen itself might not bear the style and suaveness of the kitchen island, but with its sleek look and backlit backsplash, there is a utilitarian charm to the place. Having recessed handles for the cabinets coincides with the wardrobes at the genkan foyer, adding to the thematic consistency of the renovation.
An office study framed by a moon gate
Image credit: Studio 21
Another visually arresting design feature rests right behind the sofa, where a moon gate frames the entrance to the office study. It certainly adds yet another element of intrigue to the living room, and also contributes to the overall theme of the place.
Image credit: Studio 21
On the side of the office study is a glass window that adds that visual connectivity to the home corridor without sacrificing on the partition element.
Image credit: Studio 21
Another reason for having the glass partitions would likely be to showcase the beautifully designed corridor. Presided over by a fluted ceiling beam that conceals strip lights on each side and even a sliding shoji door on the side, the homeowner really doubles down on the machiya look here.
Stone-heavy bedroom and bathhouse-inspired en-suite
Image credit: Studio 21
The bedroom is arguably a lot more stone-oriented, with the rock facade in the living room making yet another appearance above the headboard of the bed. The colder palette of stone makes sense here, imbuing in this room a sense of calm that’s conducive for sleep.
Image credit: Studio 21
The attached bathroom bears the same stone-heavy focus, with the vanity sink exuding minimalist class, but this home has one last surprise in store over at the shower.
Image credit: Studio 21
With the wood panelling used here, one can’t help but feel like they’ve been transported to the bathroom of a ryokan in Japan. The wood panelling also adds a valuable warmth to this place and stands out against the grey stone walls, turning this shower area into a visually impressive focal point.
2-bedroom Japanese townhouse-inspired condo
Inspired by the owner’s love of Japan, this 2-bedder machiya-inspired condo is definitely one for the inspo boards. And with the amount of visual details, eye-catching centrepieces and the overall extensiveness of the renovation, we’d happily agree with the Sugoi-Ville moniker that the homeowners gave it.
For more shopping finds:
- GCB renovation in Singapore with a memorial garden
- A $200K modern Japanese maisonette with industrial touches
- Renovating a 5-room HDB flat for $150K
Cover image credit: Studio 21
Drop us your email so you won't miss the latest news.
