TATAMI GUIDE

STRUCTURE OF TATAMI

Each tatami mat is made up of 3 main components : omote (surface), doko (base) and Heri (Border) We have 2 kinds of doko options - coconut coir or coconut coir + softwood layer.

Both doko are made of coconut coir of course while the latter with an additional sandwiched softwood layer. The coconut coir layer is a natural materials which undergoes an antibacterial process and they can provide a firm and comfortable resting area for people lying down on tatami. The additional softwood layer which made by compressed soft wood chips, add the extra comfortless as the sandwich structure of the doko work as a cushion effect to the tatami. Doko with softwood layer required a minimum thickness of 3cm. It is highly recommended if you use tatami as the sleeping mattress!

 

TYPES OF TATAMI

Our tatami is divided into 3 types, each with different omote material - igusa (also called rush), washi and rattan. They provide different texture and feels.

Igusa tatami
The omote of igusa tatami is weaved by igusa and cotton thread and it is the most ordinary style of tatami. In spite of the its ancient beauty, igusa tatami work as a natural air purifier in a room as well as the humidity controls. It is truly a great tool to create a relaxing, healthy living environment!

Washi tatami
Unlike igusa tatami mats, washi tatami doesn’t have the aroma smell and cannot be worked as a natural air purifier. But the omote of washi tatami weaved as the same way as igusa tatami by “traditional japanese paper” - “washi” which gives its unique feature of water / dirt / stain resistant. It usually has a wide range of color options, single or mix colors. There is also a “Rimless Series” which is even more easy to match up with the modern interiors!

Rattan tatami
It is another modern type of tatami designed for “rattan lover”. Like washi tatami, it also offers a range of color options/patterns to choose. Rattan tatami is quite popular now due to its durable feature as well as its natural cooling effects while lying on the mats. Further to this, the price is much lower comparing to igusa or washi tatami. It is definitely a great alternative for one who want tov create a beauty space at the same time budget conscious!

ARRANGEMENTS OF TATAMI

Before choosing your tatami mats placing method, you may want to know...

Shyugi Shiki (祝儀敷き) is the most popular way done in normal households. The Tatami mats are placed in a way that the 4 corners of the Tatami don't gather in one spot.

Fushyugi Shiki (不祝儀敷き) is used for unlucky events such as funerals. It is a custom in order to avoid the bad luck. But because of its easy-to-store sizes and other reasons, many hotels or modern houses use this placing method nowadays.