A shoji (障しょう子じ, Japanese pronunciation: [ɕo:(d)ʑi]) is a door, window or room divider used in traditional Japanese home, consisting of translucent (or transparent) sheets on a lattice frame. As the name suggests Shoji Abode takes inspiration from traditional Japanese architecture with minimalist design mixed in Indian context.

Shoji Abode Takes Inspiration From Traditional Japanese Architecture | Studio MAT

Editor’s Note: This spacious adobe of Pune immediately gives a feeling of absolute Tranquility. The Shoji Abode enchants the space with a balance of richness of materials, cozy textures with the feeling of calmness. The refreshing earthen material palate makes the space even more mesmerizing. Walking through the house as one enters the kid’s room a gush of enthusiasm is experienced as the hint of tropical shades merges with the warm earthy tones of this adobe. ~ Shagun Shah

Originally, they were for separating room from room, or interior from exterior, but their distinctive ability to “allow light to pass” by utilizing washi paper panels enriched Japanese domestic culture and became an indispensable part of home life.

The house is nestled in the outskirts of Mumbai closer to the city of Pune, this row house is a part of a gated community.

Living room is a gorgeous double heighted space that has a marble floor. White marble inlay has been peppered below the seating area. American Ashwood furniture has been custom designed for the house keeping in mind the Zen nature of the space.

The material palate in the house is consistent – Lime wash walls, American ash wood for floors, furniture and for wardrobes. Lime wash walls add a cozy texture to the space.

We have used shoji paper, which is traditional handmade rice paper, in wardrobe shutters to add translucency. The linen fabrics in curtains and furniture add a rich and captivating texture to the space

The clients love hosting their friends and family over for a game night or a soiree, the dining area becomes a cozy nook for a sit out and a fun evening with the dear ones.   

The bamboo tree near the staircase charms you as soon as you enter the home. Thus, the design focus was to bring balance, tranquility, harmony to the home while adapting a simple and minimalistic approach. The house is a minimalist abode invoking the feeling of calm as you move across the space.

Den room has a darker feel as compared to the rest of the house. It is a multipurpose room, with a study and a Projector screen and a sofa cum bed making the room warm and cozy.

The kids room is a beautiful pop of color and has a lot of playful design elements. A tropical amazon wall paper that is paired with blush color that compliments the daughter’s personality and her liking.

As we move to the master and guest bedroom the breezy material pallet continues. The idea of shoji is seen across all the rooms on wardrobe shutters, Rice paper (shoji paper) is sandwiched between 2 layers of glass.

The client’s brief was very clear – to create a home away from the city that is calm, soothing and clutter free. such that it is minimal in nature, highlights the existing heights of the spaces. Linen fabrics in curtains and furniture add a rich and interesting texture to the space.

Along the beautiful American Ashwood lattice frames this adds a design quotient in the space along with an element of utility.

Fact File

Designed by: Studio MAT

Project Type: Residential interior Design

Project Name: Shoji Abode

Location: Pune, India

Year Built: 2023

Project Size: 2200 Sq.ft  

Principal Architects: Pratha Bhagat & Harsh Soneji

Photograph Courtesy: Kshan Collective

Firm’s Website Link: Studio MAT

Firm’s Instagram Link: Studio MAT

Firm’s Facebook Link: Studio MAT

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