Karimoku's Mas brand has created a unique exhibition named "Oyado Mas," transforming their Tokyo showroom into a Japanese inn. This immersive experience highlights furniture and accessories crafted from Japanese woods, emphasizing a new concept of Japanese comfort. Visitors are guided through a meticulously designed environment that mimics a traditional inn, showcasing the seamless integration of Mas's furniture with other Japanese artisanal products.
The exhibition, located in Karimoku Commons Tokyo in Aoyama, presents not only Mas's own creations but also collaborations with other notable Japanese brands. These include lighting by New Light Pottery, washi paper by Nao Tesuki Washi, tableware by Sekisaka, candles by Sheep, and bedding by Sinso. The collective aim is to create an authentic atmosphere, inviting guests to experience a sense of comfort and tranquility. Upon entering through a traditional noren fabric divider, visitors are welcomed into a reception area, which also functions as a shop for smaller items. The journey continues into a guestroom setup, featuring a bedroom and living area, all furnished with Mas designs.
Mas design director Wataru Kumano articulates the brand's new focus on "New Japanese Comfort," which extends beyond ergonomic design to encompass the profound comfort derived from unique Japanese materials and advanced woodworking techniques. The exhibition further enhances the hospitality experience by offering tea and sweets made from local Japanese ingredients, illustrating the comprehensive nature of the Japanese oyado concept. This innovative approach seeks to stimulate new values through a curated blend of furniture, lighting, food, and textiles, providing a holistic appreciation of Japanese design and tradition.
This exhibition beautifully demonstrates how traditional Japanese aesthetics and contemporary design can merge to create spaces that evoke a deep sense of comfort and cultural identity. By presenting furniture within a lived-in context, Karimoku encourages a deeper connection between objects and the human experience, fostering an appreciation for thoughtful craftsmanship and the serene elegance of Japanese hospitality.