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to tradition and many treasures—temples,
teahouses, and gardens.
Part of Maana Kyoto's appeal is the
opportunity to dwell, however briefly, in
a piece of architectural history, even if
the past could do with some present-day
upgrades. "Although old-world Japanese
minimalism is charming, it may not be
suitable for contemporary living," Chang
confesses. "As a result, we integrate
modern lifestyle elements, such as open
kitchens, luxurious baths and west-
ern-style beds." Meanwhile, guests of
their properties will notice that the homes'
necessary but unsightly employments,
such as appliances, are fashionably out
of sight. The hope, Chang notes, is to
"inspire a new perspective of century-old
machiyas."
It is hard to imagine any perspective of
Maana Kyoto other than fresh and splen-
did. Located in the peaceful residential
area of Tanbaguchi, which is close to
Kyoto city center, it is a beautiful and
aesthetically focused space without argu-
ment. With services and room for a maxi-
mum of six guests, Maana Kyoto includes
both master and guest bedrooms, a bath-
room with sublime Japanese soaking tub,
a large living room, fully equipped kitchen,
and Japanese rock garden. Infused with
an easy, low-grade luxury, this still-life of
a space has a certain sense of sacred-
ness that feels particularly well suited to
shrine-obsessed Kyoto.
"Simple yet meaningful way of life—this
is the philosophy we wanted to express
with this house," says Chang. Discrim-
inating and disciplined in that pursuit,
"We restrained from filling the house with
decoration and objects. We focused
on void and negative space." When in
such a calm, austere and visually quiet
space, she continues, "simple everyday
life, such as making tea or coffee, taking
a bath, reading a book and listening to
music is highlighted and becomes very
intentional and meaningful." More so
when surrounded by an architecture of
fundamental craft and character. Credit
Kyoto architect Uoya Shigenori, who
Chang and Tsukamoto tapped for his
expertise in restoring machiya homes. In
5.19.23 | DIGS.NET 27
