I analyzed the tearoom as form (hardware) and space (software), and I decided to omit all forms, to simply suspend the “spirits” of the guest and the host in the air. Consequently, this tearoom comes with no hanging scrolls or utensils of any kind. The guest and the host are reduced to an essence and, while still sharing the same space and time, they enjoy a constant, imagined exchange. Though this approach is in opposition to the traditional tea ceremony with a series of ceremonial actions in a defined space using specific utensils, I hope that my work offers the opportunity to reexamine the importance and the profound significance that a ceremony possesses.

No doubt some viewers will note the resemblance of this design concept to John Cage’s 4 minutes 33 seconds --a musical performance without any music. Can we not likewise occasionally enjoy a completely imaginary gathering?

- Atsushi Kitagawara