Minimal, Natural, Simple

Japanese Style Kitchen

Browse examples and ideas.

kitchen in japanese style - example 1
kitchen in japanese style - example 2
kitchen in japanese style - example 3
kitchen in japanese style - example 4
kitchen in japanese style - example 5

What defines a kitchen in japanese style?

A Japanese style kitchen embodies a philosophy of simplicity and harmony with nature.

It prominently features natural materials like light wood, bamboo, and stone to create a warm, organic atmosphere.

The design prioritizes uncluttered surfaces, clean lines, and efficient storage solutions to maintain a sense of order.

Abundant natural light and an open layout are essential, often connecting the space seamlessly with the outdoors.

kitchen in japanese style - description

Tips for a Japanese Style Kitchen

  • 1
    Embrace Natural Materials: Opt for light-colored woods like maple, hinoki cypress, or bamboo for your cabinetry and flooring. Consider using natural stone like slate or granite for countertops to create a strong connection to the earth.
  • 2
    Focus on Minimalism and 'Ma' (Negative Space): Keep countertops clear and use clever hidden storage solutions to avoid clutter. The Japanese concept of 'Ma' emphasizes the beauty of empty space, which brings a sense of calm and order to the kitchen.
  • 3
    Incorporate Shoji-Inspired Elements: Use translucent or frosted glass panels in cabinet doors to mimic traditional Japanese shoji screens. This not only adds an authentic aesthetic but also helps to diffuse light and make the space feel brighter and more open.
  • 4
    Adhere to an Earthy Color Palette: Build your design around neutral tones such as beige, cream, wood tones, and soft greens. Use black or dark charcoal as a sharp accent color for hardware, faucets, or a small appliance to create elegant contrast.
  • 5
    Integrate Wabi-Sabi and Functional Beauty: Embrace the beauty of imperfection by choosing handmade ceramic tableware or a rustic wooden cutting board for display. Ensure every item is not only beautiful but also functional, reflecting a deep respect for craftsmanship and utility.

Decoration ideas for a Japanese Style Kitchen

A set of three wabi-sabi style ceramic canisters on a floating shelf made of reclaimed hinoki wood. Each canister has a slightly different shape and height, with a textured, matte glaze in earthy tones of charcoal, moss green, and stone white. The lids are simple, dark-grained walnut. The arrangement sits against a smooth, light grey concrete wall, illuminated by a warm, diffused light from a concealed LED strip under the shelf.A small, elegant ikebana arrangement placed on the corner of a kitchen island. A low, wide, asymmetrical ceramic bowl with a dark, unglazed finish holds a single, gracefully arching branch of pussy willow, three deep green camellia leaves, and a cluster of smooth, black river stones. The composition emphasizes negative space, bringing a sense of tranquil, organic beauty to the sleek countertop.A traditional 'noren' curtain made of heavy, indigo-dyed linen hanging in a pantry doorway. The fabric is a deep, rich blue with a simple, white resist-dye shibori pattern of a crescent moon at the bottom. The curtain is split vertically in the center and is suspended from a smooth, dark bamboo pole, creating a soft, textural division of space.A handcrafted cast iron 'tetsubin' teapot with a classic hobnail 'arare' pattern, resting on a simple, round iron trivet beside the stove. Its matte black, textured surface contrasts with the smooth stainless steel of the modern cooktop. A gentle wisp of steam escapes its spout, and next to it sits a single, handleless ceramic 'yunomi' teacup with a subtle crackle glaze.A minimalist wall hanging featuring a single, expressive calligraphy stroke representing 'enlightenment' (悟) brushed in black 'sumi' ink on textured, off-white 'washi' paper. The artwork is mounted as a simple scroll with plain, dark wood dowels at the top and bottom, hanging on a clean, beige-colored wall, providing a focal point of quiet contemplation.A collection of handcrafted wooden utensils—long cooking chopsticks, a wide rice paddle, and a ladle—made from cherry and maple wood. They are displayed in a tall, cylindrical Shigaraki-ware ceramic holder. The holder has a rough, earthy texture with a natural ash glaze, and is placed on a light oak countertop next to a bowl of fresh yuzu fruits.

Other japanese style rooms