RENOVATION
Revitalization of Kominka through Craftsmanship
In a Kominka, experience comfortable living!
Until recently, many Kominka were dismantled since they were vacant dwellings and new houses were built. However, of late the increasing recognition and appreciation of Japanese historical and architectural heritage have inspired a new awareness of its rarity and an interest in preserving this unique architectural style of house that reflects Japan’s rich past.Recently Kominka are becoming popular and attracting interest in renovating traditional architectural Kominka since they offer the opportunity to enjoy a country lifestyle like the “good old days.”
After purchasing a Kominka, it is possible to entrust us with its revitalization.
Revitalization through Craftsmanship
Traditional Japanese houses or “Kominka” that have been built for a long time require "revitalization = renovation." Unlike typical residences, renovating these houses, which were constructed using specialized techniques, necessitates expertise in traditional Japanese architecture. Only skilled craftsmen with specialized knowledge can undertake this task. In order to pass on culturally valuable Kominka to the next generation, the presence of craftsmen with expertise in traditional Japanese architecture is essential.
However, the number of carpenters with expertise in traditional Japanese construction techniques has significantly decreased. Therefore, companies capable of revitalizing Kominka within Japan are very limited. With over 30 years of experience in handling Kominka, our company has a network of skilled carpenters. This allows us to propose various options for the revitalization of Kominka to our customers.
For more information on carpenters with expertise in traditional Japanese construction techniques, please refer to this page.
Characteristics of Nakagawa Juken's Kominka Revitalization
Our company has a track record of revitalizing approximately 100 traditional Japanese houses.
Our Kominka offer comfortable living by seamlessly integrating modern appliances in the kitchen and bathroom by home improvements while keeping the traditional structure and the scenic views.
Renovation can also prolong the life of the house and enhance existing structural safety.
For example...
Kominka often have issues such as drafts through the doors and lack of insulation, making them cold. We incorporate insulation materials into walls and other areas to provide a warm living space.
Additionally, the old-fashioned kitchens, baths, and toilets associated with Kominka are often inconvenient. We introduce the latest water facilities to transform Kominka into comfortable living spaces.
Furthermore, if traditional tatami-mat rooms ("washitsu") do not suit modern living, we can make significant layout changes, converting some washitsu into Western-style rooms.
As the renovation is often extensive, involving removing walls, floors, and ceilings to turn the building into a skeleton, you can visit the construction site during the revitalization of Kominka. Please consider this when planning a visit to Japan.
Of course, we also offer the option of preserving the original state as much as possible and only reforming necessary areas. We accept custom renovations tailored to our customers' preferences.
Additionally, some properties undergo Kominka revitalization by our plans before being put up for sale.
By registering as a member here, we may inform you in advance via our newsletter about the renovation according to your preferences before Kominka revitalization by our company. Please register.
Example of Traditional Japanese House Revitalization 1
A house with an open atrium and exposed beam ceilings!
A complete custom renovation of a Kominka with a panoramic view of the rural landscape in front.The spacious living room with an open atrium and exposed beam ceilings has become a lively space for all family members to gather. The numerous lights attached to the beams also create a beautiful night illumination. The lattice ceiling at the entrance, modern atmosphere of the crimson walls, and antique sliding doors sourced specifically, showcase the homeowner's meticulous preferences in this revitalization of a Kominka.
■BEFORE
Example of Kominka Revitalization 2
A house with a breezy atmosphere!
A Kominka with a good breeze and views of rural landscapes and distant mountains from the back. We preserved the thick pillars and essential columns while completely dismantling the interior walls, floors, and ceilings to start the renovation from a skeleton state. Custom renovations were made according to the customer's preferences.The water facilities in areas like the kitchen and bathroom were replaced with the latest equipment, creating a comfortable living space. The layout was significantly changed, converting the kitchen and a small room next to the side Japanese styled room into a spacious combined living, dining, and kitchen (LDK) area. To preserve the traditional atmosphere of the Kominka, the ceilings of the LDK and the second-floor room feature exposed beams in the design. Antique fixtures were also incorporated into doors from a Japanese styled room and the entrance, creating a retro ambiance.
■BEFORE
Services Other Than Renovation
In addition to our renovation business, our company is also engaged in the following services.
We sell Kominka in Japan for use as vacation homes or for relocation purposes.
We dismantle old private houses, transport the materials overseas, and reassemble them on-site. You can enjoy living in a Kominka in your country.
For those who purchase a Kominka in Japan for use as a vacation home, we manage it as an income property while it is not in use, operating it as a guesthouse, among other options.
We operate a resort villa with an annual membership system, located at the famous tourist spot "Amanohashidate" in Kyoto. It is a facility where a whole floor can be rented out exclusively for accommodation.