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Shoin
The Japanese term shoin can be used to refer to (1) a school, (2) a study or drawing room, (3) a style of Muromachi-era architecture, or (4) a window-writing alcove in a traditional home. The fact that the term has so many meanings makes it confusing at best. This article attempts to straighten out some of the confusion by examining in detail the history of Japanese architecture and the role played by the shoin style of architecture. The better known (and more influential) sukiya style is in some ways related to the shoin style. And many forms of Japanese room design have been influenced by shoin-style rooms, with their expanded tokonoma and built-in desk/window areas.
It certainly helps to understand the various meanings of the term, shoin. But because the word "shoin" has so may different meanings, and because the term is often used recklessly, prudent observers can not be faulted if they shun the word. JOJG usually tries to avoid using the term and has generally succeeded in substituting other, more understandable words in its place.
