Refined Minimalism
A Japanese penthouse embodies serene elegance—a sanctuary of pure comfort
Perched above the rooftops of Spittelmarkt, a newly designed penthouse brings the Japanese philosophy of mindfulness, simplicity, and connection to nature to life through innovative spatial design.
The client sought to weave her experiences and impressions from Japan into the fabric of her new home. Her vision: to create a sanctuary of tranquility, harmony, and sensuality—a "Japanese gem" nestled in the heart of Berlin. The design merges functional clarity with aesthetic restraint, drawing inspiration from Japanese culture through natural materials, soft palettes, masterful craftsmanship, and artistic moments.
Distinct zones—the entrance, library, tea corner, and bedroom—shape the apartment's layout, yet transitions flow seamlessly, with harmony serving as the unifying principle throughout. The real challenge lay in authentically grounding Japanese elements within a contemporary Berlin setting, steering clear of superficial pastiche. Beyond that, materials and artworks needed to coalesce into a cohesive vision. The designer rose to this through rigorous research into Japanese craft and design heritage, close partnerships with artists like Anna Talens, and the deliberate integration of authentic pieces: antique summer doors, ikebana arrangements, and kimono textiles. The entrance features hand-painted forest-motif wallpaper—a nod to calm and natural connection. The library, the apartment's beating heart, showcases enduring walnut wood craftsmanship. In the living area, gold leaf dances across surfaces, creating luminous moments in the chashitsu, the tea corner. The bedroom wraps itself in mother-of-pearl wallpaper. Japanese manufacturer Miyazaki was selected for dining and kitchen furnishings, while the bathroom commands attention through Japanese toilet fixtures paired with Italian hardware.
Refined in its simplicity yet sophisticated in execution, the penthouse fulfills the client's vision of a "sanctuary"—a silken cocoon in space that envelops inhabitants in both comfort and beauty.
Photography:
Daniel Schäfer
www.danielschaeferphoto.com
(Published in CUBE Berlin 04|25)
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