subject: A Traditional Japanese House: Trasforming To Your Needs [print this page] A home, everyone desires to have one; and every individual's idea of a home is unique in certain ways. Merriam Webster defines a home as one's place of residence, or a familiar or usual setting. A home's uniqueness can be influenced by a persons culture, race, need, religious beliefs, and views about life.
Housing is one the needs of every being in this planet. It provides warmth and protection from the elements, for both the occupants and their belongings. Early civilizations sought refuge in caves, under trees, and even under rock formations, which goes to show that it is human instinct the drive us to find a home for ourselves.
Every country has their own take on what can be called a house. For instance, people of Canada's Central Arctic have the Igloo, which is made completely of snow. They use snow because the air pockets trapped in it makes it a suitable insulator.
But then again, the most common type of houses that come into mind are the ones made of cement and wood. Many countries have used these materials because of their reliability and durabilty in face of the elements.
And while it is true that houses serve a single purpose of protection through shelter, it doesn't mean that it has to be dull. Throughout the course of history, houses have been heralded by most as art in a relatively bigger canvas. Art that is not only visible in its outer aesthetics, but to its contents, as well.
A country that comes into mind when we speak of art within a home is Japan. Throughout the outskirts of Japan, many traditional houses can still be seen, and within their confines, one can fully grasp the depth of their history, as well as the richness of their culture.
A unique trait of traditional Japanese houses is its ingenious use of partitions. Beautifully crafted sliding doors, and custom made folding doors (which are mostly made of wood and paper) divide each room as the owners sees fit. This clever way of managing interior spaces means that there is no permanent section of a house (except maybe the bathroom, of course). Thus, an owner is able to style his or her house's interior, and create the space that he desires for a certain room. As a clear example, one can just simply slide or fold a partition, a create the space needed that can be big enough for gatherings, and events. As funny ass it may sound, but in a blink of an eye, your bedroom can suddenly be turned into your family's living room, while you're still not home, and outside with your friends, enjoying your after-school activities for the day.
All in all, a house is a sanctuary where the owner can relax and feel secured. It's also a place where one, and also an entire culture can display their rich heritage for the world to enjoy. Going inside a home is an experience, more like a storyteller, weaving a wonderful tale about the identity and life of its inhabitants.
