The Japanese view of nature is profoundly influenced by the changing seasons and the thoughtful use of materials. This unique cultural lens conveys both the challenges and the beauty of coexisting with nature, allowing us to learn from Her and translate those lessons into living concepts.

In our proposal, each element not only highlights the natural elegance and durability of our signature material, igusa, but also brings the serene and healthy comfort of a Japanese-style room. With its distinctive qualities, igusa serves as an effective meeting point between modern interiors and timeless sophistication. Discover how igusa can elevate the quality of the living spaces.

Pure by nature

1) Igusa has excellent deodorizing properties

Igusa absorbs various chemicals that cause bad odors. It suppresses sweat odors, tobacco smells, and other unpleasant odors that humans perceive, creating a pleasant air environment. Moreover, its deodorizing ability is maintained for many years.

Just breath

2) Igusa has preventive effect against asthma and sick building syndrome

Inside the Igusa, there is a honeycomb structure with nodes between its fibers, forming numerous small compartments. With its extensive internal surface area, the sponge-like Igusa breathes and absorbs nitrogen dioxide “NO2” and formaldehyde, purifying the indoor air.

Formaldehyde remaing
concentration

Reduction rate

98%

The adsorption of nitrogen dioxide emitted from automobile exhausts, stoves, and other sources shows its effectiveness in a short period of time.

Nitrogen dioxide remaining
concentration

Reduction rate

78%

It exhibits a high adsorption effect on formaldehyde, which is considered a cause of sick house syndrome.

A perfect habitat

3) Igusa optimizes room humidity for comfort

Igusa has an extremely high moisture absorption capacity and the unique ability to release stored moisture into the room during dry periods. The moisture absorption of igusa is characterized by a high initial absorption rate, allowing it to quickly adapt to fluctuations in humidity.

Comparing the transaction of humidity in Japanese style room and Western style room.

Even on rainy days, Japanese-style rooms experience less humidity variation.

Feeling good

4) Igusa provides a relaxation effect

Parasympathetic nervous system activity​
It can be said that igusa has a calming effect as it significantly promotes parasympathetic nervous system activity, which tends to increase during a relaxed state.

The presence of igusa (rush grass) leads to a predominant shift in parasympathetic nervous system activity.

Brainwave measurement​
It can be said that igusa has a calming effect as it promotes an increase in alpha band amplitude of occipital brain waves, which tends to occur during a relaxed state.

The presence of igusa (rush grass) enhances the amplitude of brainwave alpha frequencies, inducing a state of relaxation.

Source: “Relaxation effect of Igusa” Kyushu University Graduate School of Agriculture, Kuniyoshi Shimizu.

If you would like to learn more, please contact our team for additional information and a fact sheet on properties and scientific analysis.

Historical image of Igusa Waving – Meiji period, late 1800s, Japan