shoji house's renovation infuses traditional japanese elements into modern setting in israel

Ofree Studio rearranges the layout for a dynamic and open space

Ofree Studio takes over the renovation project of SHOJI HOUSE, a two-story private residence in Binyamina, marked by the infusion of traditional Japanese elements with a modern approach. The studio tackled the adaptation of the 50-year-old house for a family with two young children, aiming to centralize public spaces on the ground floor. The living room and kitchen underwent transformation, breaking down internal walls and incorporating furniture and lighting for space division. The first floor was designated for the couple’s offices, a private clinic, a home office, a play area for children, and an entertainment room. The design embraced antique furniture from the 1960s, meticulously refurbished and integrated with modern pieces. Japanese elements, including a Shoji door, Tatami mats, and Pokkuri shoes, were seamlessly woven into the living room’s fabric. The Shoji door, a focal point, featured wooden frames with perspex panels, allowing dynamic openness and closure.

living room area with low-sitting furniture and a soft linen pendant | all images by Tal Brushel

Japanese Touches and Vintage Accents adorn the Family Home

The entrance area showcased Tatami mats made from child-friendly sea grass, emphasizing comfort and ecological considerations. The dining area featured vintage chairs and an oak table, creating a versatile family space. The living room seamlessly flowed into the kitchen, characterized by an artistic plaster painting and carpentry with oak veneer. The first floor housed offices, a shared play area, and a guest room, showcasing a clinic with minimalist design for child therapy and a warm home office with diverse wood elements. The garden, designed in a minimalist spirit, featured different stations, including a Japanese Zen corner, a fabric-covered entertainment tent, and a geodesic dome climber. The entire renovation project by Ofree demonstrated a meticulous blend of design principles, Japanese aesthetics, and vintage furniture within a familial context.

low-sitting living area and the hall with the Shoji door

kitchen with an oak veneer island and Danish bar stools

Japanese curtain divided into three linen wings that move on three separate rails, in the tatami hall

Tatami hall with the Shoji door with handmade Japanese teaware set

seating area in the yard with an open fabric tent and a fire pit

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home clinic of a communication therapist for children

entrance hall with modern handmade Pokkuri shoes

oak veneer bathroom and laundry cabinet

home office with a vintage desk and chair from the 1960s, and a marble figurine from childhood

project info:

name: SHOJI HOUSE
designer: Ofree Studio 
lead designer: Ofry Yarom

carpentry: Woodsmith

location: Binyamina, Israel

photography: Tal Brushel | @tal_brushel

designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom