Okaeri! Cozy up your home with Japanese design cues

“Okaeri!” is a common Japanese greeting which literally means “welcome home.” Ordinary as it may seem, its message quickly gains weight if uttered by someone who’s cherished by the greeting’s recipient. After all, home is not just the physical structure, but also the people you hold close to your heart. 

This poignant connection with one’s living space is perhaps why homeowners, or those aspiring to be one, are keen on making their place their own. Whether a full-sized house, an apartment, or a bedroom, simple ideas guided by Japanese home design can help transform your suite into your ideal home without breaking the bank.

Adding Japanese flair to your home
Minimalism and adaptability are hallmarks of Japanese-inspired home design. Its distinct minimalist approach encourages decluttering and highlights natural elements, allowing the efficient utilization of space without sacrificing form and functionality. Additionally, it is also about the smart use of storage to maintain a clean and neat environment. An example is the genkan or Japanese-style foyer, which not only serves as a space to remove and store footwear but also doubles as a welcoming area for those entering the house.

Its adaptability, meanwhile, gives homeowners the freedom to choose which design features can be best adapted to their current space. Combined, this enables the creation of a space that’s free of distractions and one that evokes a sense of openness and harmony. 

Below are simple design cues to consider in piecing together your Japanese design inspired home:

1. Appreciate empty spaces
Empty or negative spaces are carefully considered in Japanese interior design. These are believed to have their own presence and energy which create a sense of calmness and balance that allow people to have a moment of introspection. So, don’t make the mistake of over-decorating. An empty space does not always need to be filled.

2. Embrace modular design
A thoughtful layout goes a long way in creating functional spaces. This means the components within the area – from the furniture to the space itself – can be effectively repurposed or rearranged to have multiple uses and create more room than there is. This ties back to the principle of minimalism, which encourages homeowners to be deliberate with the essentials inside their space. Less is more, as some may say.

3. Carefully choose your furniture
Opt for minimalist, low-profile furniture that embody simplicity and practicality. Choose ones that have a smaller footprint that will not obstruct the flow of light, which can help in maintaining the openness of the room. With carefully considered colors and textures, it can also provide good contrast and accentuate your living space. So, choose wisely and with purpose.

4. Integrate the natural world into your home
Japanese design is in tune with nature. Some simple ways to incorporate this distinct feature include allowing natural light into your home, cultivating green landscapes such as a garden or indoor plants, or selecting natural materials like wood or bamboo that resonate with the landscape in your vicinity. When possible, you may also build your own aesthetic around your area’s natural surroundings to reflect the beauty of the natural world.

5. Choose neutral color schemes
Due to Japanese aesthetics’ affinity towards nature, neutral colors like brown, green, white, and grey are often used. More importantly, these earthy colors introduce a soothing atmosphere in your living space. White and grey tones also help brighten up the space.

Your dream home within reach
As adaptable homes grow in relevance, Japanese-inspired living spaces are becoming an appealing choice for today’s modern living. If a simple home renovation is no longer enough and you find yourself wanting to experience Japanese-inspired living, Yume at Riverpark in General Trias, Cavite might be the perfect fit for you.

Yume at Riverpark is a horizontal residential community developed by Federal Land NRE Global Inc. (FNG), a joint venture between premier Philippine developer Federal Land and prominent Japanese developer Nomura Real Estate Development. Guided by combined expertise, FNG showcases synergy of Filipino values and Japanese architecture in its developments, offering clients residential spaces and amenities that feature modern Japanese contemporary design rooted in minimalist principles.

Encompassing 18 hectares of expansive estate, Yume at Riverpark is a sprawling neighborhood perfect for families to grow and thrive. Developed with community-building in mind, Yume at Riverpark is designed to provide walkable spaces that are easy to navigate, allowing residents to foster relationships and connections without worrying about their safety, as the residential project is equipped with enhanced security features.

Yume is located south of Metro Manila, within easy access of major roads, transportation hubs, business and commercial districts, leisure hubs, medical and educational institutions, and places of worship. These make this residential development an appealing option for discerning homeowners who value convenience as they start building their families and other investments.

(Metro enthusiasts will also be pleased to know that the Japanese-inspired living experience is also coming to Mandaluyong with FNG’s The Observatory, a mixed-use development featuring a retail podium, an office building, and residential spaces.)

Staying true to Japanese design principles, Yume at Riverpark seamlessly integrates nature in its layout, ensuring that the area’s natural heritage is preserved within its enclave. Residents always have quick and convenient access to green areas and village amenities. Inside, extensive green spaces with winding pathways, lush landscapes, fitness areas, and many other comforts are readily accessible to elevate one’s well-being and to nurture a serene atmosphere.