Daica Ano/ Kengo Kuma & AssociatesClose to nature and beautifully minimalist, the Zen-like interiors featured in a new book
Alongside the homes’ proximity to nature is the pared-back simplicity for which Japanese design has become known. “Minimalism has a long history in Japan,” explains author Iida, “rooted in the teachings of Zen Buddhism that came to our country via China, and found a foothold beginning around the 12th Century.”
In the book, Iida explains how these ideas aligned with Japan’s existing religion, Shintoism, “a nature religion that does not worship a central figure but rather considers all things – man-made and natural – to possess a spiritual essence.” Interpretations of this vary, she explains. “A simplified explanation is that nothing should be treated poorly, and therefore it is better to have nothing. Or as Buddha said, ‘The less you have, the less you have to worry about’.” Many modern minimalist homes in Japan are influenced by shrines and temples as a result. Here are some of the most beautiful and most intriguing.