Japanese Influence

Buildings with planar massing and horizontal elements recall Japanese architecture. These tenets of Japanese design are easy to see in the work of Greene & Greene and Frank Lloyd Wright. — Brian D. Coleman

1. FUKINSEI 不均整( IMBALANCE) Asymmetry and irregularity are favored, as symmetry and perfection do not occur in nature. Translation: Group objects in clusters of three or five.

• 2. KANSO 簡素( SIMPLICITY) Elimination of unnecessary ornament is important to keep things truthful. Translation: Eliminate clutter.

• 3. KOKOU 枯高( AUSTERITY) Basic, weathered and aged, essential materials are best as they evoke maturity. Translation: Use natural stone, brick, and wood.

• 4. SEIJAKU 静寂( CALMNESS) Silence and tranquility are important for one’s mind and surroundings. Translation: Incorporate areas for thought and reflection: a chair by the fireplace, a bench in the garden.

• 5. YUGEN (幽玄)( SUGGESTION) Imply there is more by not showing everything. Translation: Don’t display everything you own all at once.