The traditional Japanese building element that mediates the relationship between interior and exterior is called Engawa.
1. Engawa is a unique feature in Japanese architecture that serves as a veranda or an intermediary space between the inside and outside of a building.
2. It typically runs along the perimeter of a traditional Japanese building, connecting the interior rooms to the outdoors.
3. This element allows inhabitants to experience nature and outdoor surroundings while still being sheltered within the building.
4. Engawa also provides shading, ventilation, and a sense of continuity between the living spaces and the natural environment.
In summary, Engawa plays a crucial role in creating a harmonious connection between the interior and exterior spaces in traditional Japanese architecture.
