Japanese Living: Mini Lifestyle Library

Traditional Japanese architecture emphasizes economy of design and an unsurpassed sensitivity to the natural environment. And a traditional Japanese home with its freshly woven tatami mats, sliding shoji screens, and exposed wooden beams is the height of this art form. This study reveals a unique aesthetic through stunning photographs and insightful descriptions. Discover the simple proportions based on the square of the tatami mat; the fluid floor plan created by movable screens; the rich textures from the combination of indigenous woods, straw, and paper; and the use of nature itself to enhance the home. This beautifully photographed book captures the essence of Japanese architectural elegance, whether at a traditional inn, an imperial villa, or a garden pavilion.

Noboru Murata is one of Japan's most accomplished interior design photographers. He regularly travels around the country from his base in Tokyo on commissions for Japanese Elle Decor and other leading lifestyle magazines.