Maana Kamo
Maana Kamo was thoughtfully designed as a home for quiet contemplation and reflection, featuring understated and tranquil spaces. Its muted and seamless layout serves a pure purpose: silencing the noise within. By consciously restraining from the superfluous, the absence of material indulgence is highlighted, creating an austere space of simplistic harmony where beauty is reflected through light, shadows, and forms.
The machiya, approximately a century old and in a state of neglect, didn't offer many preservable interiors. However, the designers skillfully carved out new functional spaces while meticulously restoring the architectural integrity, emphasizing the old structure's charm. The ceiling was opened up to reveal the beautiful original wood beam and structure. Under this open ceiling, a new master bedroom was added, accompanied by a skylight that bathes the room in soft, indirect natural light. New walls were constructed for acoustic separation from other spaces, cocooning the area in a peaceful ambiance.
Blurring the lines between art and architecture, Maana Kamo is a powerful expression of austere harmony. Each space is thoughtfully curated to evoke a sense of tranquility and serenity.
The guest bedroom is designed as a Japanese tatami room, embracing the concept of "slow life." An unobtrusive modern bench allows guests to enjoy the ever-changing scenery of the Kamo river throughout the four seasons. This versatile room can also be used for yoga and meditation when not accommodating futons, adding an element of mindfulness and flexibility to the guest's experience.
