Homeowner Tomoko Matsuyama integrated a simple Japanese aesthetic into the 100-year-old townhouse she purchased in uptown Manhattan. Navigating a Life From East to West examines Ms. Matsuyama's collaboration with architect Michi Yanagishita of Front Studio. With the help of her architect, the two-unit building was made into a three-unit building, adding additional rental income while employing some clever design tricks...

Ms. Matsuyama lives in a duplex starting at the middle floor. An additional duplex rental unit shares half of a floor. Notice the lift-up cupboards in the kitchen and the open stairway. Ms. Matsuyama has a penchant for Warhol!

The above doorway functions in two ways: It either closes off the stairway and is open to the bedroom, or closes off the bedroom and is open to the stairway. This is a great trick in a small space, as long as there is room to turnaround at the top of the stair!

Check out the complete story and audio slideshow for more pictures and information.

(Pics: Ozier Muhammad)