Japanese Flavours in Berlin

Kraemer took inspiration for his designs from experimental sculpture and the idea of design communication and a Feng Shui master was later consulted to ensure that the designs conformed to the principals of the ancient tradition. In the centre of the room is a large counter made of Kebony Radiata with a discreet vase filled with flowering branches of wood. The counter and floor tiles are positioned slightly canted so that the guest is visually invited into the room.

Everything shines discreetly in white, brown and green to match the colours of the Macha tea. The entire experience of drinking tea at macha-macha has been designed around sensory gratification and wellbeing. Japanese teas, famed for their health benefits, are consumed in this room wherein the very architecture and interior design instils a sense of calm to all who pass through it.

The material selection for this unique space was also informed by the Japanese principal of Wabi-Sabi; the notion that materials should be allowed to change and that transience and imperfection are an integral part of their aesthetic. It was through this ideology that Kraemer discovered Kebony, which acquires a silver-grey patina over its lifetime under exposure to light and the elements. The use of Kebony''s pioneering Scandinavian technology in this traditional Japanese space lends it a timeless, anachronistic quality which is very much in keeping with the eclectic vibe of Berlin''s Hermannplatz.

The utopic ambience of the room meant that sustainability also had to feature high on the design agenda for the teahouse. Kebony''s strong eco-credentials and environmentally sound technology meant that the wood could be used without compromising the ethicality of the design.

Images courtesy of katberlin.com