Japanese Architecture

Thick thatched roofs and rough mud plaster walls of farmers houses, intricate carved wood transoms and precisely woven tatami mats of aristocratic compounds each element of traditional Japanese architecture tells a story. These stories encompass the particular historic development, construction, function, and symbolism inherent in each architectural element, large and small. From roofs, walls, and floors to door pulls and kettle hangers, this book situates the stories firmly within the natural environment and the traditional culture of Japan. Japanese architecture developed with influences from abroad and particular socio-political situations at home. The resulting forms and construction materials soaring roofs with long eaves, heavy timber structures of stout columns supporting thick beams, mud plaster walls flecked with straw and sand, and refined paper-covered lattice sh¯oji screens are recognisable as distinctly Japanese. Designed with strong connections to the surrounding environment, these built forms utilize natural construction materials in ways that are both practical and inventive. This book provides a comprehensive perspective of traditional Japanese architecture, relating the historical development and context of the buildings and gardens of Japan while examining the stories of the individual architectural elements.