8 Japanese-Style Homes to Give MUJI a Run for Their Money

Irasshaimase!

There’s just something about Japanese homes that appeals to the masses. Think clean, minimalist designs with thoughtful planning and modest furnishings that truly embrace the concept of ‘less is more’ – which makes it ideal for small space living in today’s compact apartments.

But despite these basic principles that each Japanese home is rooted in, designs can vary. Whether you fancy the iconic MUJI aesthetic or a more traditional ryokan-inspired look, these 8 homes will show you how to incorporate Japanese design into your home in Singapore.

1. This cosy MUJI-inspired condo in Woodlands

You can’t go wrong with pairing a palette of neutral hues with light wood tones. The use of wooden finishes and furnishings in this contemporary dwelling lends a hint of warmth to an otherwise sterile space.

To elevate the look further, try weaving in different textures and materials like natural stone, linen and plants for visual variety.

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2. This Geylang HDB flat that is modelled after a nagaya (Japanese longhouse)

Paying homage to Edo Period architecture, this nagaya-inspired abode features extended shoji doors and tatami mats against a dark, moody backdrop.

Rather than looking old or outdated, the lighting and material choices (like stone and glass) add a sense of modernity that makes the space look right at home in the 21st century.

View Comfort Home Interior's portfolio

3. This executive apartment based off Aman Kyoto

Why pay exorbitant amounts of money for a holiday home overseas when you can experience the same thing right at home?

Modelled after the Aman Kyoto, this luxurious home possesses similar features to the world-renowned resort – like light wood tones, latticed surfaces, and eye-catching black accents.

View MAD About Design's portfolio

4. This small 2-room BTO flat that looks straight out of a MUJI catalogue

At 49 sqm, this 2-room BTO flat isn’t the biggest home around – but it sure looks spacious thanks to its seamless look, with wood textures cladding just about every surface (including the walls and ceilings).

To make full use of the space, the homeowner opted to rely on carpentry to integrate the TV feature wall and the dining area seating for a more streamlined design.

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5. This Sengkang HDB flat with a ‘modern ryokan’ design concept

One of the biggest features of Japanese resorts are the abundance of natural materials and light, and that’s exactly what this ryokan-esque home delivers.

On top of the dark wood fixtures, you’ll also find plants, stone, and terrazzo – the last of which is mainly used in the bathroom in a bid to recreate the outdoor showers in a resort.

The walls of the communal area are also coated with limewash for an additional splash of texture.

View Intheory Design's portfolio

6. This unique Japanese-industrial HDB flat in Serangoon

In this home, Japanese furniture meets raw, gritty features (like cement screed surfaces) to create a moody, yet cosy space.

Of note is the full-length bookshelf in the dining area. Home to various items that mean a lot to the homeowners, it also serves to add elements of zakka design to the space to elevate the look further

View The Local INN.terior's portfolio

7. This tiny condo with no lack of storage compartments

Instead of using traditional furniture, this homeowner has opted to furnish their living room and bedroom with tatami mats in true Japanese fashion. An elevated platform is installed throughout the area, with additional storage space beneath it that is sure to come in handy.

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8. This simple white-and-wood resale flat in Tampines

This charming little abode features the classic white-and-wood combination, but plays around with patterns and textures to break up the visual monotony.

But aside from that, you’ll also find multifunctional carpentry, like the bench in the living room that doubles as a storage area and TV console, and the wall coverings that conceal the bedroom entrance. Truly a balance between form and function!

View Mu Design Studio's portfolio

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