In Tokyo, a Former Rice Shop Transformed Into a Creative Space

A former rice shop, renamed Almost Perfect by its new owners, serves as a den for artists and creatives from overseas who are passing through Tokyo. Those who go there for a week or even several months will find a cocoon-like space, designed to help them develop, create or exhibit their works. Almost Perfect also helps them to widen their professional network in Japan.

The building was constructed in 1924, just after the ‘Kanto’ earthquake the previous year, and for a long time served as a family home and shop for its owners. Before being left abandoned, it survived the bombing during the Second World War, amongst other dramatic events. However, since artistic director and illustrator Luis Mendo and his wife Yuka Mendo (head of the ethical clothing brand INHEEL) bought and renovated it in 2018, the place has been transformed.

The rice machines are still there, but only as a ground-floor decoration; this area has been turned into a café/art gallery. The second floor serves as both a guestroom and creative studio, and the top floor is an apartment, where the couple live. Luis and Yuka pay particularly close attention to the environment. Rather than buying new things, they gather up objects which have already been used and do their shopping in the local area, known for the rich artisanal quality. The transformation is radical to look at, but respects the original dynamic of the building. Almost Perfect is a ‘complete’ place where people can both live and work.