Space: Japanese Design Solutions for Compact Living [Hardcover]

Space: Japanese Design Solutions for Compact Living, is packed with more than 200 serene photos and outstanding ideas for living life to it's fullest in a very small space. The houses in this book are small and rely on traditional Japanese design elements. For example, tatami mats on the floor, futons that are rolled - up by day, and shoji screen dividers for walls. Most American homes do not follow a Japanese aesthetic and are not plagued by such tiny floor plans but they often have difficult areas that need help. Space will be a huge source of inspiration and ideas because the problems it tackles are so difficult and the solutions so interesting.

Each home in Space is as individual as it's occupants but there are a few common features that make these small spaces work. One essential ingredient is lightness whether in the choice of construction materials, the appearance of the structure, or color. Creative storage solutions are also important, some notable examples include, stair risers that double as drawers, shelving units that pull out of walls and, under the floorboard storage. Movable interior partitions that make a space as flexible as possible and exterior partitions or fences to obscure unpleasant views while psychologically extending the interior outside. Finally I was really impressed with the creative solutions for staircases especially the layout that featured a movable staircase that was akin to a pocket door.

This book is a must have, there are so many amazing ideas and they can be scaled up for large spaces or scaled down to meet the constraints of the snuggest confines.

This book is fine in almost everything but the floor plans that are missing. It's small and compact which goes with the theme but a floor plan would have been a great addition in simplifying the readability of it. Most of all it would be great if I could learn how to do them instead and of only admiring these houses.

it would make a marvelous coffee table book, except it's half the size of one. or maybe it makes a wonderful table book precisely because it is so easy to pick up and skim. regardless, don't let that deter you from getting this book, as it is remarkable in its showcasing of the creativity that small spaces foster. as you read both the words and pictures throughout the book, you will find yourself thinking "wow that makes so much sense!" and "i want that house!" over and over.

a fantastic book, it will inspire you to either move to japan, or take the book to your architect and commission a house on the spot.