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 project was featured in September 2024 issue of Enki Magazine, where we shared how fundamental principles of Japanese aesthetics shaped this home into a sanctuary of calm. You can read the full article from here.
Photography: Anna Stathaki
Styling: Nina Lilli Holden
A Home that Breathes with Ma (Space)
In Japanese design, Ma – the deliberate use of space – is not about mere emptiness but about creating balance. When you visit a Zen garden in Japan, the open spaces are designed with as much intention as the elements within them. This principle guided our approach to the entire project.
The original entrance led directly into the living space, without a clear transition between the outside world and the home. We redefined this journey by elongating the hallway and introducing a floor-to-ceiling shoe cupboard. This seemingly simple addition established a sense of arrival – allowing the homeowners to leave the chaos of the outside world at the door before stepping into a place of calm.
Inside, Ma is further expressed through the open-plan living and dining space, where shoji screens offer a flexible boundary. When closed, they create a private retreat for yoga or meditation; when open, they integrate seamlessly with the main living area.
Natural Materials that Engage the Senses
Japanese interiors celebrate the inherent beauty of natural materials – each chosen not only for aesthetics but for their ability to engage the senses. The material palette is defined by:
- Sustainably sourced oak – a timeless, tactile element that softens the space and offers a warm visual contrast.
- Lime wash paint – a breathable finish that lends depth and texture to the walls.
- Washi paper and rush grass – used in the shoji screens and tatami flooring, reinforcing the home’s quiet authenticity.
- Marble and linen – balancing natural elegance with a lived-in softness.
These materials were carefully selected to create a holistic sensory experience – where touch, sight, and even the natural scent of timber contribute to an atmosphere of serenity.
Sustainability at the Core
Beyond aesthetics, the project prioritises sustainability. The home was upgraded with an electric heat pump, solar panels, and underfloor heating – modern interventions that align with the Japanese philosophy of living in harmony with nature.
Additionally, the focus on natural, biodegradable materials ensures that every design choice respects the environment. Even the tatami mattresses were handmade in a small Tokyo workshop and installed by skilled craftsmen, preserving both tradition and craftsmanship.
A Contemporary Retreat Rooted in Tradition
This project is a testament to how Japanese design principles – rooted in simplicity, natural materials, and spatial awareness – can create a home that nurtures both body and mind. By embracing Ma, engaging the senses, and prioritising sustainability, Essence of Japan has become more than a home; it is a retreat, a place of restoration, and a space where design and well-being are in perfect harmony.
For those seeking a home that embodies thoughtful design with a timeless aesthetic, the project serves as a blueprint for how intentionality can turn a house into a sanctuary.
Explore more of our projects here and discover how we can bring balance and beauty into your home.
The Result: A Harmonious, Multi-Functional Home
The completed project stands as a testament to Yoko Kloeden Design’s expertise in residential interior design.
Every space serves multiple purposes while maintaining a cohesive, calming aesthetic. From the versatile kitchen that hosts family meals and supper clubs to the serene loft bedroom, each area reflects our commitment to creating homes that are both beautiful and functional.
This Victorian terrace renovation in Brixton exemplifies how an interior designer in London can transform a traditional space into a modern, nature-inspired haven. By blending elements of Japanese interior design with practical considerations, we’ve created a home that truly brings people together.