Custom-Made Japanese Washitsu Interior Project in the Netherlands
Sukiyado was contacted with the request to transform an old hobby room into a full-fledged Japanese Washitsu, complete with all the set elements of a traditional Japanese interior. Think of Shoji sliding doors, Chigai-dana shelves, Tatami mats on the floor, and a Tokonoma Platform. The last mentioned being especially important as the client is an avid collector of Japanese arts such as Bonsai and Suiseki.
The central theme of the project was ‘Peace of Mind’, a concept that is often associated with traditional Japanese interiors and Japanese culture as a whole. Minimalism combined with refined details makes a Washitsu the perfect spot to relax and unwind. The ultimate separation from the often hectic world we live in today.
The Interior Design
Custom-Made Japanese Washitsu Interior Project
Dreams Come True in Our Unique 3D environment
We first visited the location of the project to listen to the wishes and demands of our client and to carefully inspect and measure the space. After this briefing our architect immediately started on the interior design by recreating the old room in our unique 3D environment. When this step was completed, all the set elements of an authentic Japanese interior were installed. Elements such as a Tokonoma Display, Shoji sliding doors, and Tatami flooring.
The Construction Process
Custom-Made Japanese Washitsu Interior Project
Utmost Attention to Detail
Once our architect was finished, we visited the location again to proudly present the design. Our customer was extremely enthusiastic stating that we perfectly captured his vision, and he immediately requested our skilled woodworkers to start on the realization. With the design in hand, our team created all the elements of the interior in our own workshop. One special aspect of the construction process was the Tokobashira, the pilar next to the Tokonoma Display. In the design, this pilar had a formal Shoin-zukuri style, but during the construction a more informal style pilar was chosen because there was a very special opportunity available. The customer had an old Hinoki tree in his garden that was in his care for many years, but that unfortunately died. He asked us if we could remove the tree from the garden and turn it into the Tokobashira of the interior. Everything is possible at Sukiyado, so this was easily done. Adding a very special personal touch to the interior.
Once all the elements were created, we had our usual inspection to examine if everything was fully realized and up to our high quality standards. Everything was perfect and complete, so all the parts were prepared for transport to the location. Here all parts were installed in their designated spot, turning the Japanese Washitsu interior from a dream into reality.
The Final Results
Custom-Made Japanese Washitsu Interior Project
Going Beyond All Expectations
After the project was completed, our customer could not be happier. He stated that we turned his dream into reality in the most amazing way imaginable, with no points of criticism to offer. The overwhelming positive feedback makes us very proud of the project, and we see it as great fuel for all our future endeavors.
The Meaning behind Sukiyado
The name Sukiyado is derived from the Japanese residential architectural style known as Sukiya-zukuri (数寄屋造り). This style is known for its informal aspects and evolved from the more formal Shoin-zukuri style. The word ‘Suki’ means refined taste or elegant pursuits, which perfectly captures the essence of Sukiya-zukuri. With the added suffix ‘Do’, meaning way or path, Sukiyado can freely be translated as ‘The Way of Elegant Pursuits’.
SUKIYADO - Design, Advice, and Realization of Custom-Made Japanese Architecture, Interiors and Furniture.
Zuidwijk 68, 2771 CD Boskoop
Zuid-Holland, The Netherlands
Tel: +31 (0)6 206 75 854
Mail: service@sukiyado.com