Currently centre stage hosting the Olympics, Japan is one of the most beautiful countries in the world. Although none of us can be there in person, Richard Petrie, interior expert at www.thomas-sanderson.co.uk, shares his top tips for bringing Japanese style into our homes.

1. Design A Genkan Entryway

Genkan are traditional Japanese entryway areas for houses or apartments and are usually a combination of a porch and a doormat. You can utilise a small space in front of your door for storing shoes or displaying outdoor coats. Including a homely candle in this area would be the perfect way to welcome guests into your house.

2. Let Nature In

Japanese culture has respect for nature which underpins many styles. Bonsai, an art form in Japan that aims to blend horticultural skills with aesthetics, represents balance and harmony and trees can be displayed either indoors or outdoors. Japanese homes also like to bring nature inside through large windows or sliding doors which let the light flood into any room. 

3. Create Zen In Your Home

In Japanese culture, it’s commonplace to find a serene space in your home for meditating or having tea. You can add a few cushions and a small water feature in the corner of a room to create your own haven away from the distractions of modern living. If you have a bigger space, paint it a calming blue or green and add some relaxing music. 

4. Incorporate Wood

Wood can add clean lines and a calming ambiance to a room and can often be seen throughout a Japanese home. You could try bringing natural elements into your home by including vintage wooden furniture in your living room.  Alternatively, if you have a smaller property, putting little wooden ornaments on show can have a similar effect.

5. Embrace Japanese Art                                                                                              Include traditional Japanese artwork, known as Nihonga, on your walls to create a tranquil ambiance for mature properties. Other Japanese art like Origami and Kumihimo, a type of braiding, are fun activities and can be used as accessories around the home, making great additions especially to a child’s room. 

6. Stick To A Minimalist Style

Japanese design is clean and minimalist, the trick to replicate this is to keep things simple with clean lines, neutral colours and no clutter. A good question to ask yourself when reviewing your own space is does this item have a place and a purpose.