Reminiscent of Zen gardens found in Japan, the client wished to create a modern Japanese home. Idyllic and serene surroundings shelter the family from the bustling outside world. The humble owners who grew up in this older neighborhood required the existing mundane house totally modernized but wanted to keep a humble look within the existing communal fabric. A new entry way was designed to welcome guests, with subtle transitions and visual cues from the front elevation. Within, designers created an open floor plan focused on circulation and flow for the couple’s daily activities. The new master bedroom was designed to provide ample wardrobe space, with sliding doors opening directly onto the Japanese garden. A koi pond was salvaged and incorporated into the landscaping, transforming the backyard garden into a meditative oasis. Blending indoors and outdoors, the material selection was unified by organic textures and warm natural tones.
Like nature, our lives evolve. These empty-nesters wished to remain in their original house and retain their cherished memories, with a subtle lifestyle upgrade. As a result, a simple design concept of “Modern Zen” was born, based around nature and the home as a sanctuary.
2013 Hawaii Home and Remodeling Magazine AIA Design Awards Editor’s Choice Awards
2013 Annual BIA Renaissance Building & Remodeling Awards Grand Award Winner: Residential Remodeling
