Culture-space relationship: Japanese traditional residential interiors

Abstract

The aim of the present study is to put forth the relationship between culture and space, through the examples from Japanese culture and Japanese traditional residential interior spaces. Therefore, at the first attempt culture and space concepts are defined. Then cultural determinants; family, religion and philosophy, site and climate, anthropometry and perception of space are analysed through the Japanese point of view. Traditional Japanese residential interior space elements; entrance, rooms, furniture and sliding screens, other services and being an extension of interior space veranda and garden are explained briefly according to their general organization. Within this context, the effects of Japanese cultural variables on Japanese traditional residential interiors are discussed.