The weather in Tokyo has been unsettled since the beginning of April. We have many cloudy and rainy days, and even when the sun peaks through, it’s only for a fleeting moment. This fickle light seems to influence my mood, drawing me away from bright, dramatic displays toward something more grounded and quiet. Today, I felt like stepping away from European influences to lean fully into a "Wa" (Japanese) aesthetic.
I chose two simple everyday vessels: a soba-tsuyu pitcher and a soba-choko (buckwheat noodle cup). By now, this small pitcher has become a familiar face on this blog. I find myself reaching for it often because its modest form feels right for so many different flowers.
Today, I paired it with its matching cup to create a cohesive set. In the pitcher, I arranged purple and white campanula. Compared to roses or lisianthus, campanula are modest; they are often relegated to being "filler" flowers in larger bouquets. But here, I wanted them to be the center.
I placed the campanula pitcher inside a refined basket and set the scabiosa cup on a wooden board. Behind them, I used a dark-toned I used a dark-toned backdrop. I added a simple candle as a vertical accent. The texture of the wax felt in tune with the afternoon’s stillness. It felt as if the room had finally found its focus.
Next,I placed them on the long plate, simply keeping a space between the two. I also looked at the campanula in the basket and the scabiosa on the wooden compote, each on its own. It is all a quiet process of trial and error. I tried a few different arrangements today. I wonder, what kind of quiet atmosphere do you find yourself drawn to?
On a different note, I’m surprised by the prices at the supermarket lately. Even snacks have nearly doubled, so I don’t buy them as often now. But bamboo shoots are in season and more affordable than usual. I’ve been buying and boiling them frequently, simply taking in the season.
I hope your space brings you a little extra joy today.
-mizu
