AT the heart of Japanese minimalism is the cultural concept of “Ma” or the space between things. It is about finding beauty in simplicity. It is a philosophy that the Japanese apply to all aspects of life, from the respectful pause when they bow to each other, to the quiet moments for contemplation while drinking coffee, and even to elements of design.

The use of space in Japanese residences is where this concept of efficiency is quite evident and clearly beneficial. Throughout the years, they have refined home organization into a lifestyle and an art form—creating clutter-free, relaxing, and welcoming spaces. It is no wonder that Japanese residential designs are a perfect example of smart, yet aesthetically pleasing, space usage and making the most out of compact living.

Space and storage are given the Japanese approach at The Seasons Residences, the upscale Japanese-inspired residential development that will soon rise at Bonifacio Global City (BGC). Each unit of The Seasons Residences channels Japanese discipline, design and aesthetics to maximize space.

Similar to a typical Japanese home, the units at The Seasons Residences open to a genkan, the transitional space between outdoors and indoors where visitors are welcomed and are required to take off their shoes before entering. This is a Japanese tradition that goes back to the Meiji era over a thousand years ago and has persisted to the present even with the introduction of Western influences. The Seasons Residences continues this Japanese tradition by installing a getabako or shoe cabinet at the entrance of every condominium unit. The getabako prevents footwear from cluttering up valuable space inside the unit; it minimizes dirt, mud, and grime from entering and soiling the floor.

In Japanese homes, the kitchen is considered a utilitarian space where the design focuses on functionality rather than aesthetics. It is important that every element has a purpose and a place. Following this concept, the kitchens at The Seasons Residences are equipped with practical storage solutions to minimize clutter. The built-in sink is larger than standard, so multiple tasks can be done at the same time. Each unit comes with spacious cabinets for proper storage of utensils, equipment and food. For a clutter-free kitchen, a built-in floor storage is also installed to keep heavy items like condiments, bottles, and canned goods out of sight. This is a common feature in highly traditional Japanese homes.

The innovative storage solutions at The Seasons Residences extend to the bedrooms as well. Floor-to-ceiling Japanese-style closets maximize the space in the area, giving plenty of room to breathe and interact. Going back to the philosophy of “Ma,” having negative space lets one focus, de-stress, and keep the mind free from negativity.

The ingenious storage systems, as well as the generous spaces at The Seasons Residences help residents organize, allowing them more time to reflect, relax and meditate. Embracing harmony also creates more room for relationships and meaningful interaction. Take a closer look at how we treat spaces by visiting the showroom at 7th Ave cor. 34th St., Grand Central Park, North BGC, Taguig City (across the Lexus Manila Showroom). For more information, e-mail invest@federalland.ph.

The Seasons Residences is a collaboration between Federal Land Inc., Nomura Real Estate Co. Ltd., and Isetan Mitsukoshi Holdings Ltd. The development’s first tower, Haru, is set for completion in 2023.

Read more: Business Mirror