In traditional Japanese architecture, the toko-no-ma, 床の間, floor-’s-room, is a central feature and acts as the central artistic, and perhaps, spiritual focal point. It is raised slightly above the main tatami mat floor to show it is a special space. The curated selection of the objects in the tokonoma are intentionally arranged to harmonize with the season, the overarching theme of the gathering, or the particular sensibilities of the  guest, or the host, and first function as a type of silent greeting. Through this precise presentation, a unique sanctuary is created, honoring the singular nature of this encounter, ichi-go ichi-e, 一期一会, one-time one-meeting, which exists only within...