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

Bring a touch of zen into your home in true Japanese fashion!

There’s just something about the quintessential Japanese style that makes one feel right at home. 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.

Whether you fancy the iconic MUJI aesthetic or prefer a more traditional ryokan-inspired look, these 8 Japanese-style homes will show you how to incorporate this practical yet stylish decor style into your modern-day abode.

1. You can’t go wrong with pairing a palette of neutral hues with light oak tones. The use of wooden finishes and furnishings in this contemporary dwelling lends a hint of warmth to an otherwise sterile space. For a more old-fashioned touch, traditional bamboo blinds are a great way to complement the look!

2. Unlike the typical combi of sofas and coffee tables, this unconventional living room looks reminiscent of old-school manga stores in Japan. An elevated platform is installed across the space, complete with classic tatami mats, legless chairs and a full-height display shelf that showcases the homeowners’ beloved collection of comic books.

3. Paying homage to the Japanese bar culture, this izakaya-inspired nook features striking neon lights and laidback accents against a dark, moody backdrop. Taking centre stage here is a noren – a type of curtain commonly hung at the entrance of restaurants in Japan – which acts as a partition while adding a retro edge to the overall vibe.

4. For those who aren’t a fan of the usual clean-cut, immaculate interiors, take inspiration from this zakka-esque space which is equal parts quirky, eclectic yet homey. To complement the tatami-style setting, the homeowners filled it up with soft furnishings, woody finishes and a touch of greenery.

5. Decked out in a plethora of Japanese memorabilia, this home is all about the details. Take the dining area for instance – which is adorned with nostalgic elements such as the lantern-shaped lights and a kakejiku (Japanese hanging scroll). Although sparsely furnished, it’s these little touches that really elevates the space.

6. Looking straight out of a MUJI catalog, this charming little abode features the go-to pairing of white on wood, but plays around with patterns to break up the monotony. The kitchen and bathroom both makes use of the classic white tiles – it’s simple, but it pops because of the black grout!

7. What’s a Japanese-style home without the good ol’ Shoji screens? In this ryokan-inspired abode, these wooden folding screens are given a modern update in the form of sliding doors. Not only do they help to add an extra layer of privacy, it also helps to bring light into the bedroom, working in tandem with all the concealed storage solutions for a more spacious feel.

8. Just because you’re going for a minimalist look, doesn’t mean you can’t get creative with storage solutions. Maximise every inch of space by incorporating built-in storage beneath a platform bed, which helps to cleverly conceal clutter while keeping the rest of the room fuss-free and sleek.

Build a home that's not just aesthetically pleasing, but also functional!

Many Singapore homeowners have had to put their renovations on hold due to COVID-19 BUT that doesn't mean you can't start planning for yours now.

Ironing out the kinks in your home makeover plan will enable it to proceed smoothly once circumstances improve, so if you’d like some professional help let us know and we'll link you up with local interior firms that offer virtual consultations!

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