When you ask non-Japanese people what the architectural elements are that make them feel the Japanese-ness in a building or a space, you will often get answers like shoji screens or tatami mats. What is so fascinating about the world-renowned shoji screen?

Since ancient times in Japan, fittings such as fusuma sliding doors and shoji screens have been used to partition a room. The culture of fusuma painting featured thick, lightproof papers. By contrast, shoji screens (created by spreading Japanese washi paper over wooden frames), have been loved over time for the distinctive way they let light pass through. The exceedingly Japanese scene of morning sunlight shining in through shoji screens has a timeless charm.

All kinds of of shoji screens can be created by combining different wooden frames with other materials such as glass sheets. Typical shoji screens have rectangular latticework frames lined with washi paper, but many different designs are possible, both traditional and modern. Using artistic Kumiko shoji screens, with asymmetrical designs and circles, can give a refined yet impactful accent to any living or working space.

Although traditional Japanese shoji was made from washi paper, recently there is a trend for a more durable type of washi that incorporates acrylic material, making it tear-resistant. Shoji screens now use water- and impact-resistant sheets or panels that mimic the ambience of washi.