Hi, so I live in the U.S. but I would like to have a Japanese-like entrance in my apartment. My main reason is because I like the clear separation of where people are allowed to step with shoes. I know I can’t replicate it exactly without creating an indentation in the floor but was hoping someone has done this before or if there is something I can buy to have the same effect. Here is what my apartment entrance looks like : https://imgur.com/a/OgKvvbW
I would like a situation like this, however I cannot damage or remove any flooring: https://imgur.com/a/Ml2v25y
https://www.reddit.com/r/japan/comments/17cvdhu/i_want_a_genkanlike_entrance_for_my_apartment/
5 comments
Get a floor mat that’s big enough that folks can leave shoes on it?
Something like this (or one of the longer ones)?
[https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B8YKPB28/](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B8YKPB28/)
You could get a large floor tray and add a thick strip to define the area you wish.
https://www.amazon.sg/Vinyl-Floor-Transition-Threshold-Strip-Self-Adhesive-Threshold-Tile-Transition-Strip-Laminate/dp/B0BVH8GQNM
Something like this might be available at your local hardware or DIY store?
A floor mat and a shoe board right next to the mat should have enough “take off your shoes!” energy.
Many modern Japanese apartments (including the last two I have lived in) do not have a step after the genkan but simply a second threshold. The genkan itself will have hard tile or some other hardy material, with the actual indoor floor being usually hardwood. A clear transition like that with a friendly instruction should help folks get the message.
You could also add a shoe box/rack and if you have room a bench to the side where people can sit to put on/take off shoes. Definitely the mat that others said.