Tatami

Abstract

Use of the tatami mat reportedly goes back to the 8th century (the Nara period in Japan) when single mats began to be used as beds, or brought out for a high-ranking person to sit on. Over centuries it became a platform that has hosted all facets of life for generations of Japanese. From palaces to houses, from temples to spaces for martial art, the tatami has served as support element for life. Used as an integrated floor element, it is a multifunctional platform for many daily practices: from sleeping to eating, from leisure to work. A tatami mat is a space to sleep. Rolling out a futon mat turns a room into a bedroom. Bringing out a smaller zabuton cushion to sit on and a folding table makes the same space a dining room.OLD History of Architecture & Urban Plannin