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Tailored Tatami for a Minimalist Apartment

Creating a Bespoke Japanese Sanctuary for James Ong


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 Project Specifications



YEAR

2024

LOCATION

Singapore

ROOM TYPE

Two-room minimalist apartment

CLIENT

Homeowner

PURPOSE
Restore a true Japanese sensory and cultural experience in a modern apartment.


Client Brief

The Challenge: Imitation vs. Intention

James came to us with a clear vision: a home grounded in the spirit of Japan. But his first experience with tatami mats had been disappointing—plastic-like, synthetic, and soulless.
Despite a thoughtfully designed interior—complete with a raised wooden platform and noren curtains—his space lacked what he called “a grounded soul.” The missing piece wasn’t visual. It was sensory. Emotional. An authentic tatami connection.

Key Challenges & Needs

1. The Fragrance of Rest

James missed the earthy aroma of igusa rush—a subtle, calming scent found only in natural tatami. It lingers quietly in the room, evoking the memory of peaceful stays in Japanese ryokans.


2. The Texture of Tranquility

He longed for the tactile feedback of real tatami: firm yet slightly yielding. It cools the feet in summer. Insulates in winter. It asks you to slow down.


3. Harmony with Purpose

His space had design elements rooted in tradition, but the flooring clashed. True tatami would bring everything together. It wasn’t about matching the look—it was about aligning the spirit.


4. A Cultural Anchor

James wasn’t chasing a trend. He wanted a lived connection to Japanese discipline and craftsmanship—something no synthetic replica could offer.

Products of Choice

Carefully selected tatami products that perfectly match the project requirements

Tatami Mat

Our Approach


We custom-installed authentic igusa tatami floorboards, designed to fit seamlessly into his platform layout. Every mat was chosen for scent, texture, and natural finish. The edges were minimally bound, keeping the aesthetic pure and understated.


No bright trims. No synthetic coating. Just the quiet integrity of rush grass.




“Now when I enter the room, I slow down. The smell hits me first. Then the cool under my feet. Everything feels intentional.”

James Ong

Home Owner


Ready to Create Your Own Tatami Space?

Let our expert team help you design and install the perfect tatami solution for your space. From consultation to completion, we'll guide you every step of the way.



26+

YEARS EXPERIENCE

500+

PROJECTS COMPLETED

100%

PREMIUM JAPANESE IGUSA


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