Rest, relaxation and refuge at a ryokan-inspired home in Hackney
There are many things the Japanese do well: from food to fashion, technology to tea. They’re dab hands at design too, particularly, in our opinion, when it comes to architecture. In fact, some of our favourite homes we’ve visited have been in Japan, such as Terry Ellis’ beautifully crafted Tokyo apartment and Ryo Kashiwazaki’s countryside bolthole sequestered among rice paddies. At once masterclasses in materialism, maximising space and minimalism, the best Japanese buildings are designed with modern living in mind. It’s little wonder they’ve come to inspire a whole host of buildings here too, including the one we’re lusting over this week: a courtyard house in east London, which takes its cues from inner-city ryokans.
As any urban dweller can attest, life in the city often requires a home that offers refuge and respite. Perhaps that’s why Studio Kyson looked to ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) – known for their clean and serene interiors – when they came to build this one-bed in the heart of Hackney. With Clapton in one direction and Dalston in the other, there are endless restaurants, bars and pubs to keep you entertained here – and yet you’d never know it when inside, thanks to the home’s peaceful (and enviable) positioning at the end of the quiet enclave.
But before we step inside, we let’s stop to take in the exterior: the house itself is hidden behind a slatted oak screen – a soaring street-facing structure that at once makes a statement and evokes intrigue. If the industrial steel door gives the impression that the home will be brutalist or stark, we encourage you to think again. Instead, the first of two peaceful patios sets a tranquil tone, while the second courtyard – lying at the back of the home – is another calming space for contemplation. We love the wabi-sabi slate walls and limestone floors that define both outdoor pockets – particularly how the underfoot tiling also runs inside (where it’s heated), maximisising the home’s modest footprint.
When it comes to the interiors, not-so-simple white walls are punctuated with thick oak panelling that frames certain spaces and has been used to carve out cosy nooks in the living room, for instance, as well as the bedroom. But we might just be more impressed with the staircase. It’s not often we crown this feature the pièce de résistance, but we’re very taken with how the soaring timber walls – and ceiling overheard – create such a strong sense of splendour. Who said going to bed was boring? Instead, walking this way to rest feels somewhat ritualistic, which is all part of its appeal.
Then there’s the option to put your own spin on the place: the current owner has received planning permission to create another floor. Perhaps a second big bedroom or two smaller rooms – say, a study and a guest room – takes your fancy? Or, like us, you might just be swayed by the idea of a rooftop terrace… The choice could be yours.
