The Ukrainian Makhno Studio has created the art space Kaji Gallery in Kyoto, Japan.

This gallery of antique finds is intended to be a “a sense of age, preciousness and deep value on all levels.” The space is spread over two floors. The first floor houses a hall with a central tea area, a green oasis and access to a terrace, while the second floor houses an exhibition area and a large lecture hall.

On the first floor, the walls are made of clay plaster with incorporated clay and wood. The furniture, also made of clay, is hand-made by the studio’s artisans. Above the tea area are Khmara ceramic art lamps, and next to the window is a Choven lamp. Near the stairs is a green oasis, traditional in Japanese culture. A unique cast floor that seamlessly continues into the gallery’s showcases draws special attention. The space is free of sharp “predatory” angles or “cold” industrial elements.

The exhibition corridors on the second floor are decorated with TETRAPOD ceramic tiles in 3D art, which form a dynamic pattern and add modern and even futuristic touches to the traditional concept. This tile won the Red Dot Award.

The lecture hall is an example of ideal Japanese design, reinterpreting ancient principles of shōin-zukuri using native materials such as wood, bamboo, ceramics and paper.

KAJI GALLERY is an art experiment project. Much like a chawan, hand-formed and glazed, it lives, breathes, influences and interacts with anyone brave enough to engage with it.