17 - Easy-Breezy Doorway

One of my favorite pieces of Japanese decor is the noren, a door curtain. When I initially moved across Tottori Prefecture, my awesome colleagues in the English department gave me one as part of my farewell party. Smarty pants they are as it doubled as a house warming present for my new apartment. Since then, I have used it in four different locations, including my parents house when I returned to the US last January.

Various textiles are used for making noren, with cotton being the most popular. Often noren are used at the entrances of businesses, especially restaurants, bars, traditional Japanese-style inns (ryokan), or public bath houses. They are also used in interiors for privacy and as room dividers. The one I received was made of hemp and its dimensions are 17"x60", so I previously hung it outside my bathroom. When I lived in Japan my toilet was separate from the shower room, and there was no dressing area. The length provided my guests with privacy, and the loose weave allowed the light through so the hallway was still well lit.

The blue gradation reminds me of the Sea of Japan and the times of day in Tottori. Though it was not made in Tottori, the texture of the hemp reminds me of the rural life I once lead. The open floor plan I have in my apartment doesn't provide many convenient places to hang this piece, but I think it would be best to hang it outside my bathroom. If one were to look into my bedroom window, one would have a direct line of sight into my bathroom if the door is left open. Trying to get the steam out of the bathroom can be tricky without bathroom window to assist in the ventilation process. Also, I hang my delicates to drip dry in there as well, so I don't want passersby to find out my little secrets. 

I believe my friend, Wakako, was responsible for the selection of this item, so naturally I want to pay homage to our long running friendship. When I look at the gifts I have received from my friends, it closes the distance and helps ease the sting of homesickness. Like Gainesville, Tottori was my home for five years, so I have roots and a special place in my heart for it. I have more items I want to showcase here and in my future decor scheme. I do not want to strip away their unique character, but I also want help in making them blend seamlessly into my design plans.