Maxell Kuse Ga Aru Studio by kvalito: A Quirky Hub for Art, Technology, and Creativity in Kyoto

Maxell Kuse Ga Aru Studio, designed by kvalito, is a compact yet highly versatile building located within the Art & Technology Village Kyoto (ATVK). Spanning approximately 100 square meters on the Maxell Corporation site, this innovative studio embodies the concept of “KUSE GA ARU” (quirky), fostering a unique environment where creativity, technology, and unexpected sensibilities intersect.

In collaboration with Kyoto Prefecture and the KYOTO Industrial Support Organization 21, Maxell aims to generate new value by “mixing” (MAZERU) its expertise, emerging talent, and cutting-edge technologies. The studio hosts the KUSE ga aru Award: MAZERU, workshops, talks, and interactive events, providing a dynamic platform for next-generation creators.

Innovative Architectural Layout: Circulation Meets Centrality

The studio’s architectural design balances circulation and centrality, creating a space that adapts to multiple functions. A corridor-style plan surrounds a central hall approximately 30 square meters, a nod to the traditional Japanese architectural unit Kokono-Ma.

Transparent exhibition walls crafted from wire mesh act as modular fixtures, seamlessly connecting the hall and corridor. These walls allow the space to flexibly transform for exhibitions, workshops, or other events, reflecting the studio’s mission of fostering creativity through adaptable environments.

TABLE_MX: Functional Art and Dynamic Display

At the heart of Maxell Kuse Ga Aru Studio is TABLE_MX, an original fixture designed in collaboration with various creators. Inspired by the studio’s logo by Yuta Ichinose, TABLE_MX serves as:

• A round workshop table for collaborative activities
• A curved exhibition platform that enhances spatial movement
• A modular display stand when its central removable top is repositioned

This multifunctional furniture exemplifies the studio’s commitment to spatial flexibility and supporting emerging creative talent.

Eaves, Structure, and Sunlight Optimization

To achieve an open exhibition space, the eaves extend 1.8 meters from the building perimeter, determined via precise sunlight simulation. Structural challenges at the corners are addressed with wire supports integrated into high-side light braces. These braces also function as truss beams, supporting the 5.4-meter central span and ensuring stability without compromising aesthetics.

Art, Technology, and Nature: The ATVK Concept

The studio’s design embodies the ATVK philosophy, Art, Technology, Village (Nature). Perimeter wires serve multiple purposes:

• String art adding artistic expression
• Structural reinforcement for stability
• Greening elements integrating nature into the built environment

Originally planned as a steel-frame building, the design was optimized to a wooden structure with fewer structural wires to reduce costs. Movable exhibition walls, original furniture, and layered wire elements create a multifunctional and adaptive environment.

As the works of emerging creators accumulate, the space continually evolves, revealing a variety of quirks (KUSE) that embody the studio’s mission to co-create the future.

A Hub for Emerging Talent and Creative Exchange

Maxell Kuse Ga Aru Studio is more than a building; it is a cultural incubator where technology, nature, and artistic expression converge. By integrating adaptable architecture, multifunctional furniture, and flexible exhibition systems, the studio encourages collaboration, experimentation, and innovation among young creators.

This project highlights how compact spaces can achieve maximum functional and creative impact through thoughtful design, blending tradition and technology in an inspiring setting in Kyoto, Japan.

  All photographs are works of  Tatsuya Tabii