Japanese Buildings in the United States before 1900: Their Influence upon American Domestic Architecture

Abstract

THE Japanese elements incorporated in contemporary American dwellings are now so numerous and readily recognized that it is no longer necessary to argue the fact of Far Eastern inspiration. The small house, essentially of wood, in close communion with its setting, having a flexible plan and sliding screen walls, with built-in furniture, restraint of decoration, and quiet color schemes largely achieved by the use of unpainted woods and other natural materials, is prevalent throughout America. There remains, however, some question with regard to the exact source, the date, and the manner in which the Japanese characteristics were first accepted.¹

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Erratum