A taste of the East – the rhythm of the West
A taste of the East – the rhythm of the West
Built on a strong narrative, Mimi Kakushi blends time-honoured Japanese classics with new thinking. Rather than an attempt to mirror a national identity, our concept is focused on capturing a moment in time. An authentic celebration of Oriental Art Deco, the heydays of the 1920’s brought to the modern day. Mimi Kakushi embodies Japan when jazz was swinging into 1920s Osaka, bringing modern art and western fashions to it. It challenges traditional values and ignites a new golden era.
The name ‘Mimi Kakushi’ (“covered ears” in Japanese) is borrowed from the distinctive bob haircut worn by the young Moga in 1920’s Japan. A direct reference to this turning point in culture.
Our main intention with the site, was to reintroduce the sophistication the space deserved, transforming the uninteresting empty shell into a unique dining experience, unknown to Dubai’s saturated restaurant scene.
Mimi Kakushi is layered with light, textures, contrast, and natural materials. The wooden screens provide spatial flexibility, with Japanese colonial influenced furniture, decorative fabrics, and hand painted walls.
Inspired by traditional Japanese joinery and principles of living, each element has been carefully curated, tailored and handcrafted. The light is carefully guided through the space. To the East, full-height stained glass windows in ambers and reds dresses the existing façade, allowing warm light to bathe the space during the day. To the South, a bespoke curtain of wooden beads covers the mirrored tables in dappled evening sun, transforming the sunset into an interiors feature. Each element of one’s journey has been carefully curated and crafted to immerse them in a strong narrative. The story is relevant and present in every detail.
Full design scheme from Architecture, through Interior design, decoration and accessorising.
Transformation of 2 existing houses (1 derelict) into 1 family home
Complete strip back to shell, retaining only the historical stone walls
Full new layout
Full interior Architecture scheme (all finishes, materials, etc)
Custom design of the floor tiles. Handmade by artisans. Traditional techniques
Specification of all the furniture and home accessories
Custom design of the furniture: living room sofa, living room tables, rooftop sofa.
Brand Design: AM Studioworks
Photographer: Maha Nasra Edde
