Japanese minimalism
Balance, simple lines, honest materials like stone, linen, paper, clay and rattan are the very essence of a simple Japanese home. In Japan, it's not all about excessive decoration, but simplicity of design, symmetry and respect for nature are core values. Since the 20th century, Nordic and Japanese design have been the subject of mutual inspiration in spite of their geographical distances. Art, architecture, design and interior decor find inspiration in craftsmanship, detail, colours and forms, giving our homes a calmer and more aesthetic composition. Durability and reflection have become the new order of the day!
Nature is often an inspiration for design. Architects and designers take turns experimenting and considering the fluid transitions between inside and outside environments. Large windows invite the untouched, wild nature inside, or elements of nature are used in designs that suit our homes and tastes. If we look closely at Japanese culture and rich craftsmanship traditions, we can clearly see it is based on that very relationship between humans and nature. Nature is full of contrasts - the irregular and asymmetric, the wild beauty and harmonious relations. It is particularly in this dynamic that balance and inspiration are created.
"Japan style" is not a fleeting trend, as it is intrinsically linked to a fundamental lifestyle and set of values. Furniture, interiors, objects and fabrics are carefully selected for the home, together creating a beautiful and functional harmony of things. When furnishing a Japanese-inspired home, it is essential for things to have memories and history that make sense to the individual, as well as celebrating the different ways we live.
"Long life design" is the term that describes designs with a long life that are universally relevant and have an iconic design and expression. Denmark has a long design tradition that we can be proud of. Several furniture items designed by Børge Mogensen, Finn Juhl, Arne Jacobsen, Hans J. Wegner and Poul Kjærholm have gained an iconic status because of the very nature of the functionality and design of the objects. Locally produced objects are also greatly respected and revered in Japan. Concept store D&Department has opened simply designed stores in places such as Kyoto and Tokyo, where they offer a curated selection of handicrafts, kitchenware, textiles, publications and foods from various regions of Japan. Bolia's Lifestyle Collection features a special selection of detail-oriented products – naturally adapted to the Nordic style. Denmark and Japan both pay tribute to the idea of a simple home, which is based on history and things with a long lifetime.
Let's look back at the skilled craftsmanship, the fine details and the functionality, and find inspiration on local and international levels. Japan is definitely a place where we can find lots of inspiration for design with reflection.