About the Author
Certified First-Class Tatami Craftsman / Owner of Higuchi Tatami Shop
Trained at Sawabe Tatami Co., Ltd. in Kyoto, a workshop led by a "Contemporary Master Craftsman" honored with the Medal with Yellow Ribbon, before starting his own business in Edogawa, Tokyo.
Winner of the Kyoto Tatami Competition (Governor’s Award) / Holder of the National First-Class Tatami Craftsman License.
Extensive experience from temples and shrines in Tokyo’s Edogawa ward, to private homes, tea rooms, houseboats, and guesthouses.
Hello everyone! This is Higuchi from Higuchi Tatami Shop. In this article, I will guide you through borderless tatami mats—what they are, how they differ from traditional tatami, and their key advantages and disadvantages. Whether you’re considering updating your Japanese-style room or adding a modern touch to your home, this guide from a professional tatami craftsman will help you make the right choice.
What Is Borderless Tatami?
Traditional tatami mats consist of three components: the tatami core (tatamidoko), the tatami surface (tatamiomote), and the tatami border (tatamiberi). Borderless tatami, as the name suggests, omits the tatami border, resulting in a sleek and minimalist design. This style has gained popularity not only in traditional Japanese rooms but also in modern living spaces and apartments.
Advantages of Borderless Tatami
1. High Design Aesthetics
The absence of borders gives borderless tatami a clean and contemporary appearance, making it a seamless fit for modern homes and apartments. It blends well with both traditional Japanese and Western interior styles.
2. Beauty of the Checkerboard Layout
When arranged in a checkerboard pattern (ichimatsu-jiki), especially with half-size mats, the interplay of light on the tatami surface creates a dynamic and luxurious ambiance. This layout is increasingly favored in design-conscious establishments like ryokan inns and stylish guesthouses.
3. Enhanced Safety
Without the raised edges of borders, there's a reduced risk of tripping, making borderless tatami a safer option for households with young children or elderly individuals.
4. Compatibility with Western Rooms
Borderless tatami is ideal for those who wish to incorporate tatami into Western-style rooms. It pairs well with flooring and is increasingly used in bedrooms and living areas.
Disadvantages of Borderless Tatami
1. Higher Cost
The production process for borderless tatami is more intricate, leading to higher costs. Additionally, using half-size mats increases the number of mats needed for a room, further elevating the expense.
2. Durability Concerns
The technique of folding and sewing the tatami surface can lead to quicker wear, especially when using natural rush (igusa) surfaces. The exposed corners are more susceptible to damage from friction, potentially leading to cracks or tears.
3. Repair Challenges
Repairing borderless tatami is more complex due to its construction. Once the mat sags or becomes uneven, restoring it to a flat state requires multiple steps, including reinforcement with thick paper. Unlike bordered tatami, partial repairs are difficult, and significant damage may necessitate replacing the entire mat.
4. Unsuitable for Traditional Japanese Rooms
In formal settings like tea rooms or Shinto shrines, bordered tatami mats are the standard. While there are innovative examples, such as circular tatami mats in Kyoto's tea rooms, borderless tatami is generally not recommended for traditional spaces.
Recommended Spaces for Borderless Tatami
- Living areas in apartments
- Children's rooms and bedrooms (prioritizing safety)
- Modern-style Japanese rooms
- Stylish spaces in ryokan inns and commercial establishments
Conclusion
Borderless tatami offers advantages in design, safety, and adaptability to Western interiors. However, considerations regarding cost, durability, and repairability are important. As a tatami craftsman, I view borderless tatami as an excellent choice for those seeking to modernize their living spaces while retaining the essence of tatami. When considering a tatami replacement, consulting with a specialist can ensure the best fit for your needs.
