What is Japanese Tatami and How to Incorporate it in Your Home

Last Updated on 18 March 2024 by Lily

Inspiration of Tatami Room You Will Love

Have you ever heard of a Japanese Tatami mat? You probably have seen Tatami in Judo, Karate place or maybe in the Samurai movies. I introduce them briefly on 11 Sustainable Materials in Interior design for Your Home. Tatami is a Japanese traditional mat which is made from rush and cloth. In Japan, it is not limited to Judo or Karate places. Almost all houses or flats have a tatami room which is called Washitsu. You may think it doesn’t really seem comfortable but actually, it is very comfy. So today, I am going to share what is Japanese Tatami, the benefits of using Tatami, how you can incorporate it in your home and some inspiration of Tatami room.

What is Japanese Tatami?

Tatami is a flooring material developed in Japan. Originally used as a rug to be laid on the wooden floor in the Heian period. it was a symbol of status and wealth. Tatami became popular in the Edo period, and it spread among the common people.

Tatami mat made of rush is a unique culture that suits the Japanese climate. Even if the Western interior style is becoming popular such as using sofas and beds, in Japan Washitsu made by the tatami mats do not disappear it’s because the comfort of tatami mats is special for Japanese people.

What Material is Tatami?

Tatami mats are made of three parts: tatami doko, tatami omote, and tatami beri. The tatami doko is the core of the tatami mat, the tatami omote is the part that is woven from the stems of plants such as rush, and the tatami beri is the edge of the tatami mat.

The tatami doko is the core of the centre of the tatami mat. In the traditional manufacturing method, tatami doko was made by tightening dried straw with threads, stacking it in multiple layers, and compressing it, but nowadays, depending on the case it is used polystyrene foam or tatami board.

The tatami omote is a rugged part of the surface woven with rush and shichito. But in recent years the production of domestic rush has been decreasing year by year, thus many rushes are imported from abroad.

The tatami beri is the side of the tatame where uses a cloth to protect the tatami mat. The fabrics used to come in a variety of colours and patterns and can change the atmosphere of the room.

What is the Purpose of Tatami?

Washitsu is very useful for various purposes. It can be used as a small housework space for folding laundry, playroom for kids or when family and friends come, it can be used as a guest space. Some people use it as a sleeping room as well. Although tatami space isn’t as common as in the EU, however tatami can be used in meditation space, work/study space, or window alcove. No worries, I will show you how it can be used in later on this article.

Is a Tatami Comfortable?

Personally, I find it it’s very comfortable. My parent’s house (in Japan) has a Washitsu and I always sleep in these instead of my room it’s because I feel more relaxed and comfy. And I love the smell of tatami somehow. Let me tell you five features of tatami mats.

#1 High Heat Insulation and Heat Retention

The tatami is usually about 5 to 6 cm thick and has an excellent effect of blocking the cold air under the floor. Since the tatami itself contains air, the heat retention that does not let the heat out of the room is also a feature of tatami. By saying that it can stay cool in the summer and warm in the winter which the air conditioning effect will be enhanced and energy saving will be achieved.

#2 Excellent Hygroscopicity and Humidity Control Function

One tatami mat absorbs about 500 ml of water and is suitable for the hot and humid climate in Japan. Since the tatami floor acts as a sponge and absorbs moisture, it absorbs moisture during the rainy season and releases moisture in the dry winter. It is the moisture absorption capacity and humidity control function of tatami mats that make you feel comfortable even in hot and humid summers and dry winters.

#3 Comfortable to Sit with Moderate Elasticity

The rush on the tatami mat is structurally easy to contain air and produces moderate elasticity. Tatami mats are comfortable to sit on like cushions and have the advantage of cushioning the impact on the body even when falling. That is why it is a great use for play space for children.

#4 Relaxing Effect

The pale natural green colour of tatami mats is gentle on the eyes and gives peace of mind and calmness. In addition, the refreshing scent of natural rush has been proven to have a high relaxing and analgesic effect. According to a study by the University of Tokyo, rush has the effect of adsorbing nitrogen dioxide and chemical substances that adversely affect the human body and purifying the air in the room. It can be said that using tatami mats create a healthy environment for people and can promote their well-being.

#5 Sound Absorption and Insulation Effects

The unique tranquillity felt in a Washitsu is due to the sound absorption and insulation effects of tatami mats. In addition, tatami mats that contain a lot of air have moderate elasticity, so walking sounds and vibrations are less likely to reverberate. Especially in flats where sound is easily transmitted downstairs, the sound absorption and insulation effects of tatami mats will help prevent noise.

How to Incorporate Tatami in Your Home?

Washitsu

You can create one room for Washitsu. Usually, in Japan, we make Washitsu next to the living room. But obviously, it is your choice. You can create it anywhere you want to, depending on the purpose. In recent years, there are a wide range of colour varieties so you wouldn’t need to worry about the fits of the colour. Let’s see some examples!

A Raised Small Tatami Room

Especially for a flat with a small living space, you can set up a raised small tatami room in a part of the living room. In that way, it gives the illusion of depth or varying distances to your living space. Here is some inspiration for a rased small tatami room.

A Small Meditation Space

If you feel overwhelmed to create one room for Washitsu, you can make a small meditation area in a space where you can meditate. I really recommend this because as I explained above using tatami will make your body and mind relax. Here is some inspo for a tatami meditation space.

Window Alcove Seating

This one is also an amazing idea. Installing it in a place where you get sunlight is a great space for a nap in the afternoon or reading a book. If there are many places to relax in the house, your life will be enriched without getting bored. Make sure to choose the proper curtain! Let’s see some tatami window alcove seating space!

Final Thoughts on What is Japanese Tatami and How to Incorporate in Your Home

Now you know what Japanese Tatami is. Since I grow up having a tatami room in the house, it feels natural having it in my home, but probably you may feel different. If you are looking for creating Japandi style, making a tatami space will add extra Japanese vibes for sure. Also, I have searched where you can get tatami mat in Europe which wasn’t many. But if you are interested, let me know. I got some lists!

I hope you enjoyed the article. Thank you for reading!

Japandi Design