27. Japanese Architecture

Japanese architecture is rare in Eastern Canada. My comments are based on a single house beside the Grand River near Conestogo, Ontario.

What to look for (clues)

• The reddish tiled roof appears at 2 levels. On the top level, the roof appears truncated before it bends upwards. The lower wider level also extends upwards but protrudes farther from the house. It covers a verandah on the main floor that encircles the house. This shape appears in Japanese temples dating back to the 12th century.

• Upper story windows are paired and horizontal. Those on the main floor are also paired, but are vertical.

• The entryway is virtually a separate building at the front of the main house. Its painting is dramatic with a round red circle where the door appears. (The circle is, of course, the motif for the Japanese flag.)

• In front of the house is a lovely small garden complete with a pond.

• The overall effect is, for me, both attractive and serene.