The Kyoto Wand Café, designed by Kazuteru Matsumura Architects, is a nuanced blend of tradition and innovation, echoing the gentle yet dynamic flow of the nearby river, after which it is named.
This renovation project, situated in a traditional Japanese townhouse (machiya) near Kyoto's Kiyomizu Gojo Station, reimagines the space as a confluence for travelers, much like a bay that nurtures diverse life while maintaining its connection to the main river. The café's design embraces the local community's aesthetics and the architectural history of Kyoto, making it a welcoming spot for day tourists who seek both respite and an immersive cultural experience.
At the heart of the renovation lies a deep respect for the building's original structure, which had been altered by multiple previous renovations. Under the guidance of master carpenter Masaaki Okimoto, the team meticulously dismantled and reconstructed the machiya, balancing the need for modern reinforcements with a dedication to preserving the townscape's elegance. The exterior, once covered by later renovations, was restored to its traditional form, with large glass windows and sliding doors now connecting the interior to the street, allowing the café to flow naturally into the city.
Inside, the design continues this harmonious blend of old and new. The indigo-dyed wood panels in the kitchen, a collaboration with artist Yuko Yamamoto, serve as a striking centerpiece, embodying the project's emphasis on craftsmanship and artistic expression. The interior materials, from washi paper counters by Wataru Hatano to chromate steel ceilings, showcase an interplay between traditional and industrial elements, resulting in a space that feels both timeless and contemporary. The thoughtful arrangement of furniture, designed by Naomi Toda and Yuto Sasaki, along with art installations by local artists, further enhances the café's role as a cultural hub where visitors can engage with art in a casual, welcoming environment.
The café’s unique structure, which includes facilities such as showers and lockers, and its time-based fee system, distinguishes it from typical cafés. It is designed not just as a place to enjoy coffee—expertly roasted by local artisans—but as a space to relax, refresh, and absorb Kyoto's rich artistic and cultural landscape.
