worthj1970@yahoo.com (John W.) wrote in message > Get a box bathtub, and you might consider using a nice sliding,
> removable door if you're wanting to divide a room up (but want the
> option of a big open space for parties, etc.). But otherwise Japanese
> homes, as has been mentioned, are not exactly models of efficiency.

Thanks John. I guess I misspoke when I posted my initial message. I'm
interested in Japanese ideas for the efficient use of small interior
spaces.

For energy efficiency, I'm looking toward American (and elsewhere)
green / sustainable building practices; e.g. passive solar, energy
efficient appliances, and super-insulation.

My apologies to all those ESL teachers in Japan who suffer with
egregiously energy inefficient apartments and home rentals.

It's the intersection of energy efficiency (non-Japanese) and
intelligent design of small interior spaces (Japanese) I'm interested
in.


Cheers,

   Dana