A Quiet Journey
At Yoko Kloeden Design, every project is shaped by a quiet respect for how architecture and interiors can support the way we live. Recently, I had the opportunity to share my story — and the philosophy behind our work — with The Sunday Times. I wanted to reflect on that article here, in my own […]
Bringing Nature Indoors
More than ever, homeowners are looking to create spaces that feel deeply connected to nature—homes that offer a sense of calm, balance, and effortless beauty. But integrating the outdoors isn’t just about adding plants. True indoor-outdoor harmony comes from thoughtful architectural choices, material selection, and spatial design. At our studio, we specialise in crafting interiors […]
Timeless Interiors Rooted in Japanese Aesthetics
In a world of ever-changing trends, there is a growing desire for depth, subtlety, and quiet beauty in interior design. Yūgen (幽玄), a principle deeply rooted in Japanese architecture and aesthetics, offers a way to create homes that —feel as good as they look— spaces that evoke stillness, balance, and a profound connection to nature. […]
The Quiet Beauty of Yūgen
Yūgen (幽玄) is one of the most profound yet elusive concepts in Japanese aesthetics. Rooted in Zen Buddhism, classical poetry, and Noh theatre, it describes a beauty that is subtle, mysterious, and deeply felt rather than overtly expressed. The word first appeared in Heian-period (794–1185) waka poetry, where it conveyed the emotional depth hidden beneath […]
The Origin of ‘Wabi Sabi’
Often celebrated in the design world, the concept of ‘wabi sabi’ is not just a design principle but a way of life, deeply rooted in the cultural and historical evolution of Japan. In this journal, we explore the profound origins of wabi and sabi and how they challenge our modern understanding of beauty and values. […]
Chaos to Calm: Harmonising Work and Family at Home
In today’s fast-paced world, where ambition and family life intersect, a home should be more than just a functional space – it should be a sanctuary that fosters harmony. For many of our clients, who value both career growth and quality time with loved ones, thoughtful design plays a pivotal role. Drawing inspiration from Japanese […]
Is Japanese Design Biophilic by Nature?
Earlier this month, I attended the inaugural Biophilic Design Conference, where experts from diverse fields such as education, conservation, healthcare, and architecture gathered to discuss the intersection of design and nature. What struck me most was how frequently Japan was referenced – whether through the concept of 森林浴 Shinrin-yoku (forest bathing), which promotes relaxation through […]
Where Minimalism Meets Warmth
At Yoko Kloeden Design, our passion lies in crafting spaces that blend the tranquility of nature with practical, modern living. One of our most celebrated projects, Essence of Japan, is a renovation of a 1960s architect-designed terrace in Ealing, London – a home transformed into a serene retreat deeply rooted in Japanese design philosophy. This […]
Crafting the Perfect Window Seat
In nearly every project we take on, a window seat has become a must-have feature, just as much as a home office. As homes increasingly serve multiple functions in the post-Covid world, carving out a peaceful retreat that isn’t the dining table or workspace has become essential. A well-designed window seat offers that quiet corner […]
Injecting Character into a New Build
At our studio, while we often engage in architectural and structural work, there’s something deeply satisfying about transforming new-build flats with thoughtful interior decoration and furnishings. Even without major renovations, we apply the same design principles we use for our larger projects to create spaces that feel warm, grounded, and personal. Our most recent ‘Ikebana […]