| Title |
A study of Washil Room: Focused on the Form and the Process of Modern Change |
| Abstract |
Wasizu(和室) is a Japanese-style room within the house. Even though it has been used as a contrary concept to Yosizu(洋室) of the opening period, the origin of its design goes further back to Syoinzukuri(書院造) of the Tokugawa era. Syoinzukuri style had been developed in the Samurai mansion with its main function centering upon receiving a guest; it naturally emphasized the formality of space and decoration. However, in the late Tokugawa period Syoinzukuri style had taken off its noble quality and been greatly simplified due to the influence from the design of tea-room(茶室), and started to be employed even in common people's house. This is the origin of Wasizu. Though its spacial usage has undergone various changes over the time, Wasizu has still remained as one form of tradition in the Japanese house. Even urban house has one or two Whasizus in Japan. The persistent existence shows Japanese love for their tradition and the practicality of Wasizu. This study examines the formation and changing process of Wasizu from a point of view of contemporary reinterpretation of tradition. Therefore, it will shed light upon how traditionality can be considered and revived in the future residence. |