The Divan

Japan is well known for their simple interior with futons, floor cushions and low tables. A similar relation that can be made to the Japanese style seating is the Middle Eastern low seating originated from Turkey. 

This style of home furnishing is called the divan. The divan had a different evolution line compared with greek kline (from word klino, cause to lean). The term originates in the Persian word devan, with diverse meanings but in the general sense is the idea of meeting. Also known as diwan in Persian, was a long seat formed of a mattress laid against the side of the room, upon the floor, or upon a raised structure or frame, with cushions to lean against. With cushions distributed on the floor, this element of resting originates in Turkey around the VIII century. Wealthy Arabs sometimes slept on elaborate tent like beds, but most people living in villages are accustomed to this type of seating. Many with nomadic lifestyles, it allows them to pack it while traveling on camels.

The divan has been commonly known in Europe since about the middle of 18th century. It became fashionable roughly around 1820 to 1850 in areas where the romantic movement in literature penetrated. All the boudoirs of that generation were garnished with divans. They even spread to coffee- houses, which were sometimes known as divans or Turkish divans.

Floor style seating has slowly reappeared in present interior designs. The most recent one I have come across is the the floor mattress cushions from Urban Outfitter Home. Two cushions bound together which can be opened to spread on the floor creating single size mattress. Another example of this style I have come across while reading Dwell magazine (image posted) is a contemporary style of divan room.  

Sources: Wikipedia, Design Boom