Innovative kotatsu designs are warming Japanese homes, in a new cozy revolution brought on by the rise of remote work
(ANN/THE JAPAN NEWS) – As the rhythm of Japanese lifestyles undergoes a subtle transformation, the heartbeat of this change resonates in the emergence of revamped kotatsu designs—cherished traditional tables with internal heating that is often draped with a futon quilt to retain the warmth
Amidst this cultural evolution, a heartfelt response to the rise of remote work is witnessed in the popularity of single-person kotatsu units.
These intimate spaces become sanctuaries, enveloping individuals in a warm embrace as they navigate the contours of a digital workspace. It’s a tender acknowledgment of the increasing number of souls seeking solace and productivity within the confines of their homes.
In the dance of innovation, another kotatsu variation takes center stage, especially for those who prefer to sit in chairs over the customary floor seating.
“It’s suddenly become very cold, so more and more people are snapping up kotatsu,” said a 24-year-old sales assistant in charge of home electric appliances at home center Cainz’s Makuhari branch in Narashino, Chiba Prefecture.
A single person-kotatsu made by appliance maker Yuasa Primus Co is among those proving a hit. The table-top measures about 55 centimetres square and is 57 centimetres high — a good height for someone seated in a chair.
Sections of the legs can be removed to lower the height to 38cm for those who prefer to use the kotatsu while lying on the floor.
Cainz also sells other heated tables suitable for use by one to two persons. Since the number of people working remotely has increased, such products tend to be mostly purchased by those looking for a work-friendly kotatsu.
Removing the futon quilt allows the kotatsu to be used as a desk. “It’s convenient because it can be adjusted to your liking depending on the situation,” the sales assistant said.
One university student living alone came to the store to buy such an item, saying, “I don’t want a heater that uses real fire or an air conditioner with heater that could increase my electricity bill and make the air in the room too dry.”
Suited to remote work
Uniquely designed kotatsu are also proliferating.
In October, mail order website Dinos began marketing a 40cm counter-like kotatsu. The top board sports two power outlets.
Dinos is encouraging purchasers to use it as a table for remote work and home study. The kotatsu does not require a quilt, and the heater attached to the underside keeps the legs warm. The table has a certain visual appeal, too, having been crafted from the wooden barrels of a whisky distillery.
Home appliance company Lithon, meanwhile, sells a rounded, tube-like kotatsu, which warms users from the knees down when seated in a chair. The sides are lined with heaters covered by material and gently envelop the legs with warm air.
“Even if you use it for a month, the electricity only costs about JPY1,000, so it’s good on the home economic-front, too,” said a Lithon employee.
For its part, major furniture manufacturer and retailer Nitori Co sells kotatsu with a single, centrally located leg.
By pressing a pedal at the base, users can alter the table-top height from 58cm to 72cm. A heater is attached on the underside and the kotatsu can be used while sitting on a chair or a sofa.
Saving energy
According to Makiko Tanaka, a writer who specialises in home appliances, a kotatsu uses about one third the electricity of an air conditioner when used for the same amount of time.
Some kotatsu come with a sensor that turns the power off when the kotatsu is vacated, helping cut electricity bills.
“Since the novel coronavirus pandemic, more and more people have been spending longer periods of time at home,” Tanaka said.
“This has led to the rediscovery of kotatsu as cost-efficient and comfortable heating devices, and people have begun seeking out models with new designs that reflect the times.” – Mako Nagaiwa
