A Modern Take on the Traditional Matcha Bowl: Our Collaboration with Mikachaa

Every collaboration begins with a conversation — of ideas, of textures, of tones. Our most recent project with Mikachaa, a newly opened matcha bar in Ho Chi Minh City, grew from one such dialogue: a shared passion for authenticity, craftsmanship, and the beauty of imperfection.

The project began with sketches and color studies that explored how Mikachaa’s identity — modern yet soothing, minimalist yet full of energy — could take form in ceramic. Our goal was to design a collection of chawan bowls that felt grounded in tradition while speaking to contemporary sensibilities.

Courtesy of Mikachaa

Each chawan matcha was thrown and trimmed on the pottery wheel, then glazed and painted by hand, one by one. Every brushstroke carries its own rhythm — sometimes soft and fluid, sometimes bold and expressive — creating organic variations that make each piece a one-of-a-kind object. These quiet differences are what give these handmade chawans their soul: the subtle irregularity of a rim, the slight variation in color, the evidence of human touch.

The surface of each matcha tea bowl is animated by delicate violet splashes that echo Mikachaa’s signature color. These marks were not merely decorative; they were the result of a long creative process that began with curiosity and experimentation. The paint used in this collection was entirely developed in-house — a custom blend made by carefully combining natural pigments and raw materials. Through countless tests and firings, we sought the perfect shade that captures the essence of the brand’s unique color.

Courtesy of Mikachaa

Working with Mikachaa was an inspiring exchange between two creative worlds: one rooted in clay, the other in matcha. Both celebrate ritual, material, and authenticity. Just as Mikachaa reimagines the experience of enjoying matcha in a modern setting, we at OWO strive to reinterpret traditional craftsmanship in ways that feel fresh and relevant today.

In the end, this collaboration became a meeting of philosophies — of process, patience, and purpose. Each matcha bowl stands as a tangible reflection of shared values: a love for color, a respect for tradition, and an appreciation for the imperfect beauty of handmade work.