Next to our studio, there is an old single-story building. Until now, we had been using it bit by bit as a warehouse and office space. However, renovating it more substantially, like altering the plumbing or removing ceilings, was a daunting task, so we decided to have Mr. Yamaguchi from ARTON take on the full-scale renovation.
ARTON is decorated with a variety of imported goods and antiques collected by a couple, creating a natural and warm atmosphere that feels like stepping back in time or wandering into another world as soon as you enter. The menu focuses on ethnic cuisine, rich in seasonal vegetables flavored with herbs and spices.
I heard that the concept of 'The Witch of Spices' was Mr. Yamaguchi's idea, inspired by his wife Naho's request, and he single-handedly handled everything from carpentry to plastering and decorating.
As he was a junior from my middle school, I felt comfortable asking Yamaguchi to undertake the renovation of ONE KILN’s gallery. The renovation began in September of this year, and our staff occasionally assisted, diligently working towards completion. Those interested can view the process compiled in the Instagram Stories Highlight titled 'Creating Gallery'.
Yamaguchi would ask, "Mr. Kido, what shall we do here?" I'd ponder, "Maybe this way—or that might be good too. What do you think?" Yamaguchi would reply, "Either way could work." And I'd decide, "Then let's go with this!" "Okay, okay," he would agree.
We kept exchanging ideas like this, brainstorming together on site.
Given that he created such a unique world, I thought he might be a stickler, but Yamaguchi is always neutral, never dismissing others' opinions, and remains calm. He works steadily and returns home, arriving punctually the next day with Naho's chai in his flask.
I've heard he never argues with his wife or yells at his children. "There are things that baffle me, like the other day when—," he'd share amusing family stories during breaks.
Realizing there's no point in getting angry or trying to change someone's mind for the sake of asserting oneself, my own malice vanished while measuring, processing wood, and fastening screws, leaving me feeling as refreshed as after a sauna.
While it would be dishonest to say I'm unconcerned about others' opinions when creating, watching him makes me wonder if he really doesn't care at all! He even created an Instagram account but hardly updates it, which is funny.
He seems to find joy simply in the act of creating, and once something is made, he's already thinking about the next thing. However, seeing the joy in our staff as the space gradually comes together, it's clear he's pleased too.
Focusing intensely on the task at hand without attachment. Perhaps this is what it means to live life in one's own way.
In these three months, Yamaguchi has given me not only a pleasant place but also valuable insights. Thank you!
I hope we can fully enjoy what's in front of us in this newly created space and continue to introduce what excites us.
