This previously unused attic space is now a sauna/yoga room. The left sauna wall follows the attic rafters down diagonally to allow a wider space for leg room on the twin sauna benches.

A bento box is more than just a lunch container—it’s a reflection of Japanese culture, mindful eating, and balanced nutrition. Traditionally used in Japan, bento boxes have gained global popularity due to their practicality, aesthetic appeal, and ability to promote healthy eating habits. What Is a Bento Box? A bento box is a single-portion packed meal, neatly arranged in a compartmentalized container. The word “bento” originates from the Chinese term meaning convenient, which perfectly describes its purpose. A typical bento includes rice or noodles, protein like fish, meat, or tofu, and a variety of vegetables or side dishes, all placed in separate sections to maintain flavor and presentation. Cultural Significance of Bento Boxes In Japan, bento boxes represent care, effort, and balance. Parents often prepare bento meals for their children as a symbol of love, while office workers rely on them for nutritious meals during busy days. Special versions like ekiben (railway station bento) and character bento (decorated meals shaped like animals or cartoons) highlight the creativity and cultural importance of bento-making. Health Benefits of Using a Bento Box One of the biggest advantages of a bento box is its role in portion control and balanced nutrition. Since the box has fixed compartments, it encourages variety without overeating. A well-prepared bento typically follows the principle of: 40–50% carbohydrates 30–40% vegetables 20–30% protein This balance helps maintain energy levels, supports digestion, and reduces the reliance on unhealthy fast food. Modern Bento Boxes and Their Uses Today’s bento boxes are designed to suit modern lifestyles. They are available in microwave-safe, leak-proof, and eco-friendly materials such as stainless steel, BPA-free plastic, and bamboo fiber. Many come with insulated layers, sauce containers, and cutlery, making them ideal for: Office lunches School meals Travel and picnics Fitness and meal-prep routines With the rise of sustainable living, reusable bento boxes also help reduce single-use plastic waste. Bento Boxes in Everyday Life Bento boxes are no longer limited to Japanese cuisine. People worldwide use them to pack Indian, Western, vegan, or keto meals. From chapati and sabzi to pasta and salads, bento boxes adapt easily to different food preferences while keeping meals fresh and organized. Why Bento Boxes Are So Popular Today The popularity of bento boxes is driven by busy schedules, health awareness, and social media trends. Platforms like Instagram and Pinterest showcase beautifully arranged bento meals, inspiring people to eat better and enjoy the process of food preparation. They combine functionality, aesthetics, and mindfulness, making meals more enjoyable. Conclusion A bento box is a smart and stylish way to enjoy homemade meals while staying healthy and organized. Whether you’re looking to improve your diet, save money, or reduce environmental impact, a bento box offers a simple yet effective solution. With its deep cultural roots and modern versatility, the bento box continues to be a timeless companion for everyday meals.

Living room - small scandinavian open concept light wood floor and brown floor living room idea in Austin with white walls and a wall-mounted tv

Asian home design photo in Portland

Black foliage of Hillside Black Beauty snakeroot, also known as black cohosh Le jardinet

Tassel Fern. Photo by Jay Sifford.

Since 2010, our studio has been designing interiors for investors, developers, and commercial property owners, focused on elevating market appeal, asset valuation, and competitive edge. Inspired by their global travels, the clients envisioned constructing four short-term luxury rental villas within their private estate in Greenville, South Carolina. The interiors were meant to capture a distinct regional flavor without relying on literal historicism, defining four directional concepts: Japan, Persia, the Nordic, and the Mediterranean. The Mediterranean-styled project, presented for your consideration, was born under severe structural constraints—much like the other villas in this complex whose interiors our studio designed as part of this commission. To work on the indoor spaces, the clients provided a traditional residential architectural template typical of South Carolina, featuring multiple pitched roofs alongside a rigid, unalterable floor plan that was identical for all four planned villas on the estate. While this approach ensured overall exterior cohesion across the property, in this particular instance, it least conflicted with the interior design goals, as both the architecture and the Mediterranean interior organically synchronize into a singular Southern narrative. As a designer, I wanted to capture the aesthetic of a sun-drenched coastline, raw textures, and absolute Southern comfort, creating a sensory oasis carved from limestone, wrapped in vines, and kissed by the sun. Although the home's architectural form dictates the rules of South Carolina, our studio boldly breaks them—masterfully weaving in the distinct moods of Ibiza and Sicily to once again rewire the connection between the architectural envelope and the interior soul.

Since 2010, our studio has been designing interiors for investors, developers, and commercial property owners, focused on elevating market appeal, asset valuation, and competitive edge. Inspired by their global travels, the clients envisioned constructing four short-term luxury rental villas within their private estate in Greenville, South Carolina. The interiors were meant to capture a distinct regional flavor without relying on literal historicism, defining four directional concepts: Japan, Persia, the Nordic, and the Mediterranean. The Japanese-styled project, presented for your consideration, was born under severe structural constraints—much like the other villas in this complex whose interiors our studio designed as part of this commission. To work on the indoor spaces, the clients provided a traditional residential architectural template typical of South Carolina, featuring multiple pitched roofs alongside a rigid, unalterable floor plan that was identical for all four planned villas on the estate. While this approach ensured overall exterior cohesion across the property, it presented a profound challenge for the interior design. Our mission was to step inside this standard suburban American architectural envelope and forge a deep, radically minimalist concept historically rooted in entirely different architectural traditions. Through the designer’s uncompromising vision and refined professional mastery, this intricate spatial experiment culminated in an unexpected, deeply meditative Eastern sanctuary hidden behind the classic facade of a South Carolina residential home. To maintain absolute design integrity, 100% of the millwork, built-in architectural storage, and all upholstered furniture were custom-designed by our studio specifically for this project and literally embedded into its architecture

Since 2010, our studio has been designing interiors for investors, developers, and commercial property owners, focused on elevating market appeal, asset valuation, and competitive edge. Inspired by their global travels, the clients envisioned constructing four short-term luxury rental villas within their private estate in Greenville, South Carolina. The interiors were meant to capture a distinct regional flavor without relying on literal historicism, defining four directional concepts: Japan, Persia, the Nordic, and the Mediterranean. The Mediterranean-styled project, presented for your consideration, was born under severe structural constraints—much like the other villas in this complex whose interiors our studio designed as part of this commission. To work on the indoor spaces, the clients provided a traditional residential architectural template typical of South Carolina, featuring multiple pitched roofs alongside a rigid, unalterable floor plan that was identical for all four planned villas on the estate. While this approach ensured overall exterior cohesion across the property, in this particular instance, it least conflicted with the interior design goals, as both the architecture and the Mediterranean interior organically synchronize into a singular Southern narrative. As a designer, I wanted to capture the aesthetic of a sun-drenched coastline, raw textures, and absolute Southern comfort, creating a sensory oasis carved from limestone, wrapped in vines, and kissed by the sun. Although the home's architectural form dictates the rules of South Carolina, our studio boldly breaks them—masterfully weaving in the distinct moods of Ibiza and Sicily to once again rewire the connection between the architectural envelope and the interior soul.

Since 2010, our studio has been designing interiors for investors, developers, and commercial property owners, focused on elevating market appeal, asset valuation, and competitive edge. Inspired by their global travels, the clients envisioned constructing four short-term luxury rental villas within their private estate in Greenville, South Carolina. The interiors were meant to capture a distinct regional flavor without relying on literal historicism, defining four directional concepts: Japan, Persia, the Nordic, and the Mediterranean. The Mediterranean-styled project, presented for your consideration, was born under severe structural constraints—much like the other villas in this complex whose interiors our studio designed as part of this commission. To work on the indoor spaces, the clients provided a traditional residential architectural template typical of South Carolina, featuring multiple pitched roofs alongside a rigid, unalterable floor plan that was identical for all four planned villas on the estate. While this approach ensured overall exterior cohesion across the property, in this particular instance, it least conflicted with the interior design goals, as both the architecture and the Mediterranean interior organically synchronize into a singular Southern narrative. As a designer, I wanted to capture the aesthetic of a sun-drenched coastline, raw textures, and absolute Southern comfort, creating a sensory oasis carved from limestone, wrapped in vines, and kissed by the sun. Although the home's architectural form dictates the rules of South Carolina, our studio boldly breaks them—masterfully weaving in the distinct moods of Ibiza and Sicily to once again rewire the connection between the architectural envelope and the interior soul.

Since 2010, our studio has been designing interiors for investors, developers, and commercial property owners, focused on elevating market appeal, asset valuation, and competitive edge. Inspired by their global travels, the clients envisioned constructing four short-term luxury rental villas within their private estate in Greenville, South Carolina. The interiors were meant to capture a distinct regional flavor without relying on literal historicism, defining four directional concepts: Japan, Persia, the Nordic, and the Mediterranean. The Japanese-styled project, presented for your consideration, was born under severe structural constraints—much like the other villas in this complex whose interiors our studio designed as part of this commission. To work on the indoor spaces, the clients provided a traditional residential architectural template typical of South Carolina, featuring multiple pitched roofs alongside a rigid, unalterable floor plan that was identical for all four planned villas on the estate. While this approach ensured overall exterior cohesion across the property, it presented a profound challenge for the interior design. Our mission was to step inside this standard suburban American architectural envelope and forge a deep, radically minimalist concept historically rooted in entirely different architectural traditions. Through the designer’s uncompromising vision and refined professional mastery, this intricate spatial experiment culminated in an unexpected, deeply meditative Eastern sanctuary hidden behind the classic facade of a South Carolina residential home. To maintain absolute design integrity, 100% of the millwork, built-in architectural storage, and all upholstered furniture were custom-designed by our studio specifically for this project and literally embedded into its architecture

Since 2010, our studio has been designing interiors for investors, developers, and commercial property owners, focused on elevating market appeal, asset valuation, and competitive edge. Inspired by their global travels, the clients envisioned constructing four short-term luxury rental villas within their private estate in Greenville, South Carolina. The interiors were meant to capture a distinct regional flavor without relying on literal historicism, defining four directional concepts: Japan, Persia, the Nordic, and the Mediterranean. The Japanese-styled project, presented for your consideration, was born under severe structural constraints—much like the other villas in this complex whose interiors our studio designed as part of this commission. To work on the indoor spaces, the clients provided a traditional residential architectural template typical of South Carolina, featuring multiple pitched roofs alongside a rigid, unalterable floor plan that was identical for all four planned villas on the estate. While this approach ensured overall exterior cohesion across the property, it presented a profound challenge for the interior design. Our mission was to step inside this standard suburban American architectural envelope and forge a deep, radically minimalist concept historically rooted in entirely different architectural traditions. Through the designer’s uncompromising vision and refined professional mastery, this intricate spatial experiment culminated in an unexpected, deeply meditative Eastern sanctuary hidden behind the classic facade of a South Carolina residential home. To maintain absolute design integrity, 100% of the millwork, built-in architectural storage, and all upholstered furniture were custom-designed by our studio specifically for this project and literally embedded into its architecture

Since 2010, our studio has been designing interiors for investors, developers, and commercial property owners, focused on elevating market appeal, asset valuation, and competitive edge. Inspired by their global travels, the clients envisioned constructing four short-term luxury rental villas within their private estate in Greenville, South Carolina. The interiors were meant to capture a distinct regional flavor without relying on literal historicism, defining four directional concepts: Japan, Persia, the Nordic, and the Mediterranean. The Japanese-styled project, presented for your consideration, was born under severe structural constraints—much like the other villas in this complex whose interiors our studio designed as part of this commission. To work on the indoor spaces, the clients provided a traditional residential architectural template typical of South Carolina, featuring multiple pitched roofs alongside a rigid, unalterable floor plan that was identical for all four planned villas on the estate. While this approach ensured overall exterior cohesion across the property, it presented a profound challenge for the interior design. Our mission was to step inside this standard suburban American architectural envelope and forge a deep, radically minimalist concept historically rooted in entirely different architectural traditions. Through the designer’s uncompromising vision and refined professional mastery, this intricate spatial experiment culminated in an unexpected, deeply meditative Eastern sanctuary hidden behind the classic facade of a South Carolina residential home. To maintain absolute design integrity, 100% of the millwork, built-in architectural storage, and all upholstered furniture were custom-designed by our studio specifically for this project and literally embedded into its architecture

Since 2010, our studio has been designing interiors for investors, developers, and commercial property owners, focused on elevating market appeal, asset valuation, and competitive edge. Inspired by their global travels, the clients envisioned constructing four short-term luxury rental villas within their private estate in Greenville, South Carolina. The interiors were meant to capture a distinct regional flavor without relying on literal historicism, defining four directional concepts: Japan, Persia, the Nordic, and the Mediterranean. The Mediterranean-styled project, presented for your consideration, was born under severe structural constraints—much like the other villas in this complex whose interiors our studio designed as part of this commission. To work on the indoor spaces, the clients provided a traditional residential architectural template typical of South Carolina, featuring multiple pitched roofs alongside a rigid, unalterable floor plan that was identical for all four planned villas on the estate. While this approach ensured overall exterior cohesion across the property, in this particular instance, it least conflicted with the interior design goals, as both the architecture and the Mediterranean interior organically synchronize into a singular Southern narrative. As a designer, I wanted to capture the aesthetic of a sun-drenched coastline, raw textures, and absolute Southern comfort, creating a sensory oasis carved from limestone, wrapped in vines, and kissed by the sun. Although the home's architectural form dictates the rules of South Carolina, our studio boldly breaks them—masterfully weaving in the distinct moods of Ibiza and Sicily to once again rewire the connection between the architectural envelope and the interior soul.

Since 2010, our studio has been designing interiors for investors, developers, and commercial property owners, focused on elevating market appeal, asset valuation, and competitive edge. Inspired by their global travels, the clients envisioned constructing four short-term luxury rental villas within their private estate in Greenville, South Carolina. The interiors were meant to capture a distinct regional flavor without relying on literal historicism, defining four directional concepts: Japan, Persia, the Nordic, and the Mediterranean. The Mediterranean-styled project, presented for your consideration, was born under severe structural constraints—much like the other villas in this complex whose interiors our studio designed as part of this commission. To work on the indoor spaces, the clients provided a traditional residential architectural template typical of South Carolina, featuring multiple pitched roofs alongside a rigid, unalterable floor plan that was identical for all four planned villas on the estate. While this approach ensured overall exterior cohesion across the property, in this particular instance, it least conflicted with the interior design goals, as both the architecture and the Mediterranean interior organically synchronize into a singular Southern narrative. As a designer, I wanted to capture the aesthetic of a sun-drenched coastline, raw textures, and absolute Southern comfort, creating a sensory oasis carved from limestone, wrapped in vines, and kissed by the sun. Although the home's architectural form dictates the rules of South Carolina, our studio boldly breaks them—masterfully weaving in the distinct moods of Ibiza and Sicily to once again rewire the connection between the architectural envelope and the interior soul.

Since 2010, our studio has been designing interiors for investors, developers, and commercial property owners, focused on elevating market appeal, asset valuation, and competitive edge. Inspired by their global travels, the clients envisioned constructing four short-term luxury rental villas within their private estate in Greenville, South Carolina. The interiors were meant to capture a distinct regional flavor without relying on literal historicism, defining four directional concepts: Japan, Persia, the Nordic, and the Mediterranean. The Mediterranean-styled project, presented for your consideration, was born under severe structural constraints—much like the other villas in this complex whose interiors our studio designed as part of this commission. To work on the indoor spaces, the clients provided a traditional residential architectural template typical of South Carolina, featuring multiple pitched roofs alongside a rigid, unalterable floor plan that was identical for all four planned villas on the estate. While this approach ensured overall exterior cohesion across the property, in this particular instance, it least conflicted with the interior design goals, as both the architecture and the Mediterranean interior organically synchronize into a singular Southern narrative. As a designer, I wanted to capture the aesthetic of a sun-drenched coastline, raw textures, and absolute Southern comfort, creating a sensory oasis carved from limestone, wrapped in vines, and kissed by the sun. Although the home's architectural form dictates the rules of South Carolina, our studio boldly breaks them—masterfully weaving in the distinct moods of Ibiza and Sicily to once again rewire the connection between the architectural envelope and the interior soul.

A custom designed koi pond is the central feature in the japanese inspired landscape. The waterfall is not only essential to the health of the fish and the aquatic plants, but it adds soothing, relaxing background noise to throughout the backyard. Espalier apple trees grow on custom built supports along the back fence.