Japanese tables are low and placed on tatami mats.
Japanese decor is simple and multi-functional. One room can be bare with a simple mat flooring and plain walls. This room can be used for sleeping during the night and for dining during the day. The colors and decor use elements from nature, with wood and paper being key features. The Japanese dining room has little extra embellishments and all unnecessary items are stored away rather than being left out or displayed.
Instructions
1. Paint the room in a subtle, off-white color, such as cream. The walls and ceiling should all be in a light, neutral color.
2. Stretch tatami mats across the floor. These are grass mats that are tightly woven, have a cloth trim and are embedded in the flooring placed on top like throw rugs. If you can`t find tatami mats, install a simple wood floor.
3. Add a low table made of dark wood to the room. This table will be shorter than a Western coffee table and cushions are placed around it for people to sit on. Diners kneel or sit on the cushions during meals.
4. Choose soft lighting for the room, using hanging lamps with paper shades.
5. Set the table with traditional Japanese dinnerware. This includes pottery and ceramics made with earth tones and simple designs for casual dining and more elaborate designs for fine dining. Some finer Japanese pieces include sakura blossoms. Chopsticks replace cutlery, and large bowls are used for everyday meals -- which often include one-dish meals. Larger Japanese dinners consist of many smaller dishes like rice, protein, vegetables and a sweet treat for dessert. These are placed on rectangular pottery plates.
6. Add functionality to your Japanese-style room by using simple bookcases to showcase items and adding an aquarium for an element of peace and tranquility. Shelves can contain sand gardens, books, bonsai or bamboo plants if desired. Keep any additions simple and uncluttered to stay with the theme of a traditional Japanese room.
Tags: tatami mats, rather than, room using, traditional Japanese