Bed and Craft Opens OUKA, a 'Stayable Gallery' in Japan's Woodcarving Town Inami

Bed and Craft has launched OUKA, its seventh lodging initiative, in Inami, Toyama Prefecture. This project repurposes a renovated Showa-era home along the Daimon River into a 'stayable gallery' that immerses visitors in contemporary Japanese craftsmanship. Architect Tomotsugu Yamakawa, through Corare Artisan Japan, designed the two-bedroom space, which showcases a blend of architecture, furniture, lighting, and curated everyday items by designer Masanori Oji. The interior highlights creations from Inami woodcarvers IPPA, brass artisans FUTAGAMI of Takaoka, AIZAWA Wood Works from Wajima, and porcelain producer JICON from Arita. Unique furnishings include TAO Half-Arm Chairs by TENON, a circular table crafted by Komei Tanaka, and zaisu chairs from Isorok Fabrik in Hiroshima. A sculptural stone marks the semi-outdoor entrance, bridging the landscape with the interior. Established in 2016, Bed and Craft has cultivated a network of restored buildings in Inami, which boasts over 80 woodcarving studios, alongside a brewery, bakery, restaurant, craft shop, and aromatherapy store. OUKA emphasizes craft as an integral part of the daily experience rather than a mere exhibit.