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How do gates fences and sleeve fences connect a Japanese garden to a house?
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Japanese garden
A Japanese garden.
In Japanese garden design, elements such as gateways and fences serve as essential architectural features that harmonize the natural beauty of the garden with the structure of the house.1
These components act as transitional devices that bridge the gap between the interior living space and the outdoor landscape. Specifically, sode-gaki, or "sleeve fences," are attached directly to the side of a house to screen certain areas, providing a sense of privacy and visual continuity. By integrating these structures, designers can effectively manage the transition from the built environment to the garden, helping to create a cohesive aesthetic that blends the home into its natural surroundings.1