Lifestyle

From Japan to Los Angeles Homes: How Kado Blends Tradition with Modern Taste

Published

1 year ago

January 9, 2025

Michelle Langton

Photo Credit: KADO

Byline: Katreen David

When the doors to Kado opened in Los Angeles, they did not just swing open to another retail shop inspired by Japan. With walls lined with handcrafted ceramics, bamboo trays, and elegant decor, the store transports customers halfway across the world into an atmosphere of quiet sophistication and timeless elegance.

Herbert Johnson, Kado’s representative in Japan, describes the store as “a labor of love.” The brand intends not just to sell items but to celebrate Japan’s unique ability to merge functionality with art. “Our goal,” Johnson explains, “is to make it a space where people do not just find beautiful items, but also feel connected to a deeper cultural experience.”

In Los Angeles, a city known for its fusion of global cultures, the novelty store has found an audience that craves authenticity in its home decor. However, unlike many home goods stores, Kado is intentional about each product on its shelves. The team’s keen eye for traditional and modern art ensures that every piece reflects the brand’s values: items that embody traditional Japanese craftsmanship yet cater to modern American tastes.

Crafting a Niche in a Competitive Market

The growing market for home goods from Japan and other East Asian nations is fierce. Yet, Kado stands apart by doubling down on what Johnson describes as “cultural authenticity.” While many competitors might lean on trends or commercialized versions of “Zen-inspired” decor, Kado highlights pieces rooted in genuine Japanese traditions.

“Every piece in our store tells a story,” Johnson explains, reflecting on the significance behind the brand’s curated selections. “Our customers appreciate that connection to Japanese craftsmanship—they can see the quality and feel it. When they shop at Kado, they are buying and owning a piece of that culture.”

Bestsellers like the Shinrin-Yoku AM・PM Mists exemplify this approach. The mists are named after the Japanese practice of “forest bathing,” designed to bring the calming essence of Japan’s natural scapes indoors. In these small bottles, customers find more than just a home fragrance; they discover a sense of calm, a nod to Japan’s reverence for nature, and an invitation to partake in a mindful experience, all within their own living spaces.

Japan to the World: Beyond the Threshold

As the brand establishes itself in Los Angeles, its ambitions do not stop there. The brand plans to expand its product range and build exclusive collaborations with Japanese artisans, bringing even more unique and high-quality items to the U.S. market. For this Asian brand, growth is not simply about scaling up; it is about deepening its commitment to preserving and sharing Japanese craftsmanship with a broader audience.

“Our long-term goal is to make Kado the go-to destination in the U.S. for authentic Japanese home goods,” Johnson shares. “We want to offer a variety of items that speak to different tastes and needs, from the design aficionados to those just discovering Japanese culture.” Beyond the physical storefront, the brand is also exploring the possibility of e-commerce, aiming to reach those who might not have access to the store in Los Angeles but still seek its unique offerings.

In a retail world often defined by the fleeting nature of trends, Kado mirrors the enduring allure of culture and craftsmanship, connecting the space between Japan and Los Angeles.

Lifestyle

The Breakroom Reset: Small Changes That Improve the Workday

Published

10 hours ago

February 11, 2026

Michelle Langton

The office breakroom is a space that’s often neglected and can sometimes feel more like an afterthought than a key feature of the workplace. This is unfortunate, especially since employees typically visit the breakroom to rest and recuperate before finishing their shift. Considering its intended function, the breakroom should be viewed as one of the most important spaces in the entire office.

Having a welcoming and rejuvenating breakroom can promote social interaction, enhance workplace culture, and reduce stress. Employees who feel restored after visiting the breakroom are more likely to feel happy at work and be more productive the rest of the day. If your workplace breakroom leaves a lot to be desired, here are some small changes you can make to totally reset it.

Small Breakroom Changes That Improve the Workday

Unless your breakroom is in shambles and needs major reconstruction, you don’t have to spend a fortune on it to make it more inviting. In many cases, small and simple changes can make a big impact on the overall vibe of any space.

Whether you’re working with a limited budget or limited space, there are still plenty of things you can do to reset your boring breakroom. Here are some small breakroom changes that can improve the workday and give you maximum bang for your buck.

Convenient Hydration Options

Employees need to stay hydrated to keep their health and energy levels high. Unfortunately, many employees are chronically dehydrated because they don’t have access to tasty beverages at work. This doesn’t necessarily mean you have to install a soda machine in the breakroom. Giving workers unlimited access to sugary drinks could backfire in the long run by contributing to illnesses and increased sick days.

Instead of offering sugary beverages (that can actually contribute to dehydration in the long run), make it easier for your employees to stay hydrated with pure water. Providing a filtered office drinking water system is one of the best ways to encourage optimal hydration. Most employees will appreciate the clean, tasty alternative to standard office tap water.

Comfy Seating

When was the last time you took a look at the seating arrangements in your breakroom? If it’s been a while, take a walk over there and give it a good look. Is there sufficient space for multiple employees to sit at the same time? Are the seats comfortable and rearrangeable so employees can interact with others or achieve greater privacy as desired? If not, you might benefit from a breakroom seating reset.

Seating arrangements in breakrooms should be both comfortable and flexible. You might want to bring in some modular furniture because it’s easy to move and rearrange as needed. For maximum versatility, seating arrangements should include a mix of traditional breakroom chairs and tables, lounge chairs, and even bean bags. Making the space as open as possible will also help it look more roomy and inviting.

Nutritious Snack Options

Most employers don’t provide full meals for their employees. It’s perfectly reasonable to expect workers to make their own lunch or dinner arrangements. However, if you want to support your employees’ energy levels, keep healthy snacks in your breakroom. Nutritious snacks can enhance employee performance throughout the day, so workers find it easier to get more done.

Instead of investing in chips, candy bars, and other sugary sweets, opt for snack options that won’t cause sugar spikes and inevitable crashes. Some great options include trail mixes, protein bars, fresh fruit, popcorn, and veggie trays. Instant oatmeal cups can also be a convenient source of energy for those who don’t have time to grab breakfast before heading to work. You might want to send out an employee survey to see what types of healthy snacks your workers prefer.

Optimal Lighting

Did you know that poor lighting can negatively impact your employees’ psychological and emotional well-being? Improving workplace lighting (including in the breakroom) can make a huge difference in worker morale and energy levels. Warm white light may be a great choice for the breakroom because it creates a soothing, calm atmosphere. Cool white light might be a better fit for conference rooms and cubicle areas because it enhances focus and energy.

Of course, natural light is arguably the best option for the office whenever it’s available. If your breakroom has windows, try to keep the shades open during working hours. That way, employees can experience the mood- and health-boosting benefits of natural light exposure.

Entertainment Options

Some office managers and CEOs mistakenly think that a breakroom should be boring to serve its purpose well. However, the terms “boring” and “relaxing” are not synonymous. Employees may find a boring breakroom to be surprisingly non-restorative. On the flip side, a room equipped for entertainment can be very relaxing and rejuvenating.

To make your breakroom a more enjoyable place to spend time, you might want to install a corner television. That way, workers can watch their favorite sitcom while they relax. You might also keep a few card or board games stocked in a cupboard for employees who prefer to interact in fun ways during their lunch breaks.

Reset Your Breakroom Today

Your employee breakroom can reveal a lot about your overall workplace environment. If it’s not lit well, or if it’s boring and unwelcoming, workers are more likely to feel underappreciated and discontented. The good news is that you don’t have to sink a lot of money or effort into resetting your breakroom and getting a fresh start. Use these simple tips to revamp your breakroom and make it a place where workers can go to feel truly cared for and relaxed.