We shape spaces.

They shape us.

Kyoto Sansui Living

Exploring how thoughtfully designed spaces create the conditions for the life we aspire to live.

Could a home change the way we live?

We believe that lasting habits don't begin with discipline.
They begin with the spaces we inhabit.

To put that belief into practice, we spent two years transforming a century-old kominka on the outskirts of Kyoto.
Through materials, rituals, rhythm and intentional use, our home continues to shape the life we set out to live.

Today, our kominka remains both our home and the place where Kyoto Sansui Living continues to evolve.

From there, we help others create homes where
timeless Japanese principles, purposeful spaces and everyday rituals
make intentional living feel natural.

Learn more
Interior of a room with hinoki paneling, a hinoki soaking tub, ofuro, and large windows with bamboo blinds called sudare
A modern bathroom with natural wood accents, a white washlet, a wooden shelf with a soap dispenser, a towel, and storage baskets, illuminated by natural light from a large window with shoji.

The Kominika Conversion

Interior of a house with wooden beams, bamboo doors, and a staircase with wooden railing. The ceiling has dark yakisugi panels, and the walls are white shikkui. A hanging vintage light bulb is visible, and there is a butsudan in the background.
A woman with blonde hair, wearing an indigo natural linnen blue shirt, arranging flowers inspired by ikebana inside a white vase on a window ledge.

What We Hope to Pass On

When a home is passed from one generation to the next, more than a house is inherited. Ways of seeing, designing, making and crafting are carried forward alongside it.

Over the past two years, we have carefully explored the traditions, values and everyday practices that have resonated most deeply with us. Many have found their way into the design of our home—not as expressions of nostalgia, but as gentle invitations to live with greater presence, gratitude and connection.

We have restored our kominka with the hope that it will continue to serve future generations, while carrying some of these timeless qualities forward.

We are currently documenting this journey in a book, weaving together stories, observations, architecture and reflections gathered along the way.

We look forward to sharing glimpses of the journey as it continues to unfold.

With reverence, gratitude and curiosity,

Toshiki, Jens and Katarina