AFRO-JAPANDI GUEST BEDROOM

This was a full Interior Plan (2D) project + additional consultation time blocks.

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Project Brief

The brief for this project was to transform a very small, underutilized "box room" into a welcoming guest bedroom for a regular weekend visitor - one that also doubles as a functional laundry space when unoccupied and incorporates sufficient storage space.  The challenge was to maximally utilise space in this compact home! 

 

Design Concept

A serene Afro-Japandi aesthetic was developed to balance warmth with tranquility.  The walls are finished in a warm off-white with deep, grounding undertones - ideal for this east-facing room.

The African influence appears through the use of rich dark woods, a plant basket that echoes traditional woven basketry, and striking artwork.  Luxury comes through in the details: bespoke bolsters in rich Cognac velvet adorned with oversized tassels and cartisanes, draw inspiration from traditional Japanese takamakura neck pillows.  The rug's design echoes the meditative patterns of a Japanese Zen garden (karesansui), bringing subtle movement to the space.

 

Material & Form

Textural depth is achieved through carefully selected organic materials - linen, wool, velvet, braided cotton, bronze, and iron - each adding warmth and dimension.

To soften the room's boxy proportions, recurring semi-circular motifs were introduced in the custom bed base, and the floating bedside shelf.  Graceful curves appear throughout: in the relaxed Roman blind, the gauzy ceiling pendant, the rug, and the picture light.

A ginseng bonsai with its sculptural, twisted trunk adds life and visual intrigue.

 

Function Meets Design

Storage was seamlessly integrated with cupboard doors painted to blend almost invisibly with the walls.  A wall-mounted coat rail provides hanging space, while discreet folding drying racks and a clothing dehumidifier are tucked behind the door—keeping functionality hidden but accessible.​