The original Kawa location was a cherished local gem, deeply rooted in the Milwaukee community, before it was tragically lost to a fire. When our clients set out to rebuild, they envisioned something greater—an homage to the vibrant spirit of Japanese street markets, infused with the timeless elegance of traditional ramen culture.

As the project lead, I spearheaded the creative art direction, crafting a design narrative that seamlessly blended these rich cultural elements. Our goal was to thoughtfully reimagine Kawa for a broader audience, specifically tailored to resonate with Western American diners while preserving the authenticity and heart that made the original so beloved.