ZEN OASIS || A Home Gateway Infused with Japanese Aesthetics
“Japanese, zen, and calm.” This three-word brief guided Designer Kevin Yiu of Minus Workshop to create a Zen Oasis.
The task was to design a home that would embody the spirit of zen of the Japanese culture to provide respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. Yiu has long been inspired by Eastern philosophies and expertly infuses every section of the residence with a thoughtful touch.
The dining area is positioned at the end of the hallway facing the entrance, encouraging the family to cherish their time upon returning to their sweet home. A statement wall is located behind the dining area, which aims to add a grounded personality to the apartment. The solid wood background wall showcases a fish-scaled pattern and an extendable lighting system that marries both form and function to support plant growth.
The entry corridor leads to the dining area. The narrow corridor is made to feel more open with a mirror on one side.
The soft and natural elements of Japanese design aesthetics can be seen in every nook of the home. From the curved detailing of the TV wall to the minimal greenery next to it and the wooden trunk coffee tables positioned in front of the curved sofa.
From the earthy palette in a spectrum of beige and browns to the light and dark wood storage cabinets and fixtures gently illuminated with ambient lighting, it’s a space that invites homeowners to relax and sink into the sofa after a long day. The sweeping views of the water from the balcony also help to instill a sense of tranquillity.
A little corner features a trio of artwork above a raw stone sculptured step—an optimal spot to enjoy a cup of tea.
The dining room avoids excess decoration yet is abundant with Wabi features.
An extraordinary ocean-inspired art piece on the warm white plaster wall was created by the notable resin art studio, Agape. A simplified sail-shaped TV panel that echoes the stunning sea view. A refined Tekiò pendant lamp by Santa & Cole, made from washi paper that filters in a soft, gentle warm tone, brightens the living room corner. The air-conditioning system is hidden inside the wooden dropped ceiling, a subtle wooden detail that often appears in Japanese architecture, which harmonizes with the wooden raised platform/shelf under the TV, to provide a tidy storage space and image. The area is complete with a vignette featuring a raw stone sculptured step together with the planter tray to create the impression of a Japanese garden.
The soft and natural elements of Japanese design aesthetics are present in every corner.
The earthy palette and harmonious wood textures throughout instill a sense of calm.
The resting quarters share a similar aesthetic, with the children’s bedroom incorporating the concept of Japanese traditional wood-building, Kumiko, where instead of using nails or metal pieces, the wooden pieces are fit together with grooves and angles. Stairs lead up to the bed—established as a hidden tree house getaway for the young child—with a living room tucked underneath. The young master can live and play in his own world, complemented by city views outside the window facing the study desk.
Elegant strip lighting and spot lights at the desk ensure the cozy hideout beneath the bed isn’t enclosed in darkness.
The design is inspired by the Japanese traditional technique—Kumiko—where wood pieces are criss-crossed to develop various expressions.
As we move into the bedroom, what surprises us about the design is that a deep soaker tub is nestled by the bed, offering unparalleled night views if one opts for a relaxing bath to end the day. This design highlight was at the owner's request and celebrates the Japanese bathing ritual. The custom-made bathtub provides a sense of sanctuary, enclosure and comfort to encourage the host to relax. What a joy it would be to sip on a glass of wine while unwinding in the comfort of your room. A little daring considering a more conservative Hong Kong culture, but we’re all for it.
The master bedroom features curved glass offering panoramic views of the city.
Invoking a sense of calm and serenity, Zen Oasis gives an impression of a traditional Japanese garden that undergoes a sleek design upgrade in muted warm-toned colours, seamless joinery, and feature pieces. Still, it emphasizes every detail that balances Japanese minimalism with absolute functionality, offering more than everything this young family may need without compromising the minimalist concept.
With the integration of traditional zen with complementary modern and minimalist elements, Zen Oasis breaks through with a design that redefines how we imagine stereotypical Japanese minimalism.
A bedside bathtub offers unparalleled night views.