When asked to describe modern houses in Japan, many might struggle to come up with an answer. This is partially because Japanese modern architecture is just as varied and diverse as it is elsewhere in the world, while still maintaining many familiar traditional characteristics.
To help you learn more about both traditional and modern Japanese architecture, here is a quick guide with the basics:
Traditional Japanese homes, referred to as minkas, are often what people think of as the quintessentially Japanese style house. These include wooden verandas, tatami flooring and sliding doors around the entire house. The traditional Japanese house floor plan is largely open and airy, utilizing natural light while still maintaining a simple aesthetic.
The hallmark wrap-around veranda, or engawa, serves to provide a primary way to get to and from the residence from all directions. Shoji screen doors - wooden lattices framed with thin paper or cloth - are another key feature of traditional Japanese architecture.
While modern Japanese houses have incredible variation in features, the prevailing Japanese design can be characterized in common terms as “form follows functionality.” Japanese houses are highly efficient in use of space and integration with the natural world.
Screens, large windows, natural building materials and a blend of indoor and outdoor living space are all present in all Japanese architecture. Exclusively modern additions like energy efficient window shutters, integrated smart lighting, glass sliding doors and space-saving home appliances combine effortlessly with traditional elements to create a truly varied and unique style of home.
Are you interested in building or buying a Japanese style house? While the variety present in modern Japanese housing might be difficult to pin down, the dedication to the traditional Japanese home design continues to capture the architectural imagination.
Terese Ferrara is a long-time resident of the Bay Area and has been a partner with the Goss | Ferrara Real Estate Team. She and her husband raised their two daughters in San Jose, where she successfully continues to build her real estate career.
After earning a bachelor’s degree from San Jose State University, she went on to teach in the San Jose Unified School District for 9 years. Transitioning to real estate was a logical choice, utilizing her patient demeanor to educate all levels of buyers and sellers. Knowledge and experience demonstrate her vested interest in delivering the highest level of care and professionalism to every client. She consistently strives to exceed her client’s expectations throughout the entire real estate transaction and remains a trusted advisor long after each close.
As a board member on KW Bay Area Estates’ Associate Leadership Council (ALC), she aids in support of culture and professional development strategies for over 180 associates. Terese is also a Director for the Santa Clara County Association of Realtors Foundation, which supports community service initiatives in Silicon Valley.
Terese is the consummate real estate professional dedicated to providing unparalleled service to her clients through ongoing training and education, keeping her on top of the dynamic market and latest real estate trends. Her high-touch approach coupled with honesty and integrity support her commitment to her client’s real estate needs.
