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General Information | Practical Information

A Japanese retreat, inside your own home A traditional Japanese interior, often a tatami room, is known for the serene balance between the living space and its contents. All the elements and furniture have a specific purpose and spot within the room. Making a Japanese style room, better known as Washitsu, practical yet minimalistic by design. The characteristic minimalist approach transforms the Washitsu into a haven of peace and tranquility. A retreat from the hectic world we live in. Naturally it is often the setting for practicing artforms such as the Japanese tea ceremony.

The elements of a traditional Japanese Interior There are various set elements that belong to a traditional Japanese interior. First and foremost, the sliding doors and dividers known as Shoji. These iconic examples of Japanese architecture are known for their precise latticework, Kumiko, over sheets of rice paper or Washi. Allowing a softened light casting silhouettes to be seen from outside the room, adding a cozy ambiance.

A Washitsu often features a Tokonoma, which is a raised display for traditional arts such as Bonsai, Ikebana and Suiseki. A very important part in the Tokonoma is a pillar known as the Tokobashira, separating it from the elements next to it such as traditional cabinets and Chigaidana shelves.

The floors of a typical Japanese room are often fitted with traditional Tatami mats. We have a personal partner from Okayama prefecture in Japan who provides the Tatami mats for Yokoso interiors. They have been making Tatami since the Edo period, ensuring a high quality and authenticity.

Personal contact as a key to success Every project is unique and requires its own approach plan. That is why we ask you to please contact us by phone or mail if you have any questions or if you want to make an appointment. We are always excited to hear your wishes and expectations, while providing you with all the necessary information. Through personal contact we can be of optimal service, the key to success.

Estimated Pricing (Basismodel) Hand-built Japanese Shoji doors in frame as shown. Prices, in euros, including VAT, refering to placement within the Netherlands. Placement outside the Netherlands based on quotation and subsequent calculation. Other design, versions and customization on request.

General Information | Practical Information

A balanced Washitsu, fully custom-made Balance is the most important factor of a true Japanese tatami room. All elements need to be complimentary to each other, as well as make sufficient use of the available space. To achieve this, a design has to be custom-made because every room is different. Each having its own unique factors to take into account such as the size, the shape and placement of doors, windows, radiators etcetera.

Perhaps the most valuable reason why a custom-made design is so important is because of the wishes of our client. There are many variations on a traditional Japanese Washitsu interior, so expectations are always personal. Practically all elements of a Yokoso Washitsu are optional and customizable to match certain desires. Needless to say, providing a Washitsu that is exactly like the client wants it, is the most important goal

The two phases of the construction process After the design is fully approved, the construction process can be planned. The first phase of constructing a true Washitsu takes us to the Yokoso Workshop. Here, all the elements are crafted by hand. We always do this to make sure that everything is fully realized and meets all our quality standards. When everything is perfect, all elements are prepared for transport to the home of our client.

The second phase of the construction process brings us inside the home. Everything is prepared beforehand to ensure a smooth execution. After this, the ready made elements are installed. Making the authentic Washitsu into a reality.

The wonderful essence of wood There are many different types of wood in the world, each having its own unique qualities. Some are perfect for exterior projects such as Cedar, while others are only applicable to interior use. Also important are the current prices of each wood type and making everything fit in the budget. That is why we always do a careful selection with our client on what wood type(s) to use before starting the construction process. Wood types used by Yokoso include Western Red Cedar, Abachi, Hinoki, Mahogony, Acacia and Oregon Pine among others.