Astrid Madsen
Miyuki Katsu Maloney embarked on a self-build project in County Mayo, bringing the essence of Japandi to Ireland. From the outside, their home reflects the charm of an Irish farmhouse, but the interior tells a different story, one of Japandi elegance.
Design Origins and Evolution
The journey began with self-designed plans, further refined after a visit to Japan for inspiration. However, by 2020, Miyuki and her husband revisited their plans. They collaborated with a Tokyo-based designer who reshaped the internal layout. To ensure compliance with Irish building regulations, the couple later consulted a local engineer.
Highlighting Unique Japandi Features in Miyuki’s Home
- The “Doma Genkan” Entrance: Traditional to Japanese homes, the entrance features a step leading to the living area, marking a “no shoe zone.” This design ensures cleanliness and offers practicality for storing items like umbrellas or buggies.
- Central Staircase: The staircase in Miyuki’s home, starting in the dining area, encourages family interaction. It’s a layout common in Japanese homes that prevents children from retreating to their rooms without engaging with family members.
- Innovative Flooring: A portion of their living area will boast traditional Japanese tatami mats. Made of modern materials, these mats offer a cozy space to relax.
- Japanese Wetroom Design: Their wetroom is uniquely Japanese, distinguishing between dry and wet areas. The dry area facilitates undressing and drying, often housing appliances like washing machines for added functionality.
The Importance of Storage in Japandi Design
Japandi is synonymous with clutter-free environments. This doesn’t imply the absence of belongings, as exemplified by the KonMari method, but rather their thoughtful organization. Recognizing their storage needs, Miyuki’s home features a shed with a loft, a spacious attic, a cloakroom, and a pantry/utility area. Designated children’s play spaces within open areas also include storage solutions, ensuring the home remains tidy.
Japandi in the Irish Context
Miyuki’s journey offers a window into how Japandi design can be beautifully integrated into Irish settings. While the exterior of their home mirrors traditional Irish aesthetics, the interior resonates with the serene and functional principles of Japandi. Through careful planning, a harmonious blend of cultures can be achieved, offering residents a balanced and peaceful living environment.
