Traditional Japanese architecture is given a contemporary twist inside the Kyoto warehouse home of gallerist Elmar Weinmayr.

The Nichinichi townhouse – which Weinmayr opens to guests – sits within a 100-year-old building constructed with traditional thick clay walls in the city’s historic district. Weinmayr’s gallery, displaying Japanese ceramics, is next door, and shares a kitchen with the Kyoto holiday home.

‘For more than 20 years we have been running the art gallery “Nichinichi”’, which is specialised in fine crafts,’ says Weinmayr. ‘We always had the idea to create a space where people could not only see and buy, but also use and experience our special style and selection’.

Set over two levels, the couple’s retreat – available to rent via Welcome Beyond from €259 per night – has its own private entrance and looks onto the building’s serene moss garden.

On the ground floor is the minimally furnished living room, with wooden floors and ceilings, as well as a study area with desk, all decorated in a soft colour palette of reds, purples and burnt brown shades.

Upstairs is a double bedroom with tatami beds and exposed clay walls.

‘Staying in our townhouse you can enjoy the lifestyle our gallery is standing for,’ says Weinmayr. Guests are encouraged to explore the surrounding neighbourhood via bicycle, two of which are supplied.

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