FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The Chakai: An Interactive Tea Ceremony Room Blending Tradition, Technology, and Sustainability

Studio Kaz's latest exhibition, The Chakai, transforms the centuries-old Japanese tea ceremony into a contemporary, interactive experience. Presented in Tokyo from October 18 to 27, 2024, The Chakai invites guests to become active participants in the ritual, blurring the boundaries between host and guest. The installation draws inspiration from the spirit of "omotenashi"-Japanese hospitality-by integrating traditional materials with modern technology, offering a fresh perspective on cultural rituals.

Central to The Chakai's design is the use of Tango Chirimen, a delicate Japanese crepe fabric, which serves as a psychological boundary within the tea room. This fabric, imbued with projection-mapped images, responds to the slightest movement of air, creating a dynamic interplay of visuals and sound. Embedded sensors detect the swaying of the cloth, allowing the environment to react in real-time to guests' movements, thereby deepening their engagement and sense of presence within the space.

The floor of The Chakai is crafted from IGUSA-faced plywood, an original material developed by adhering rush grass-traditionally used for tatami mats but often discarded due to length-onto plywood. This sustainable approach not only preserves the essence of Japanese craftsmanship but also highlights the importance of resourcefulness in modern design. The project, realized with the collaboration of video, graphic, and interior designers, overcame significant technical and creative challenges, including the integration of interactive sensors and the adaptation of traditional materials for a new context. The Chakai's innovative blend of form, function, and hospitality earned it the Silver A' Design Award in 2025, recognizing its outstanding creativity and technical excellence.

By reinterpreting the tea ceremony as an immersive, guest-driven experience, Studio Kaz's The Chakai bridges tradition and innovation, inviting visitors to reflect on the evolving nature of cultural practices and the role of design in fostering meaningful human connections.

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