TOTO GALLERY·MA is pleased to present the exhibition Harvest in Architecture by SUEP. (Hirokazu Suemitsu and Yoko Suemitsu) at the TOTO Museum (Kitakyushu, Fukuoka).

What distinguishes SUEP. is the way they view architecture as an instrument for activating ecological processes. By focusing on natural features such as topography, groundwater systems, vegetation, and ecosystems and studying the action of wind, heat, and water with simulations to inform their designs, they have been working to construct buildings that integrate circular resource flows. Through taking a tolerant approach towards nature, they aim to enable people to enjoy the blessings of the Earth while contributing towards realizing a society where this can be done in a sustainable fashion. Additionally, they value the importance of enhancing the livability of buildings not only by improving functional performance but also by sharing with residents, users, and community members the joy of taking part in the circular flows.

The exhibition’s title, Harvest in Architecture, is an expression of the architects’ gratitude for being able to harvest the fruits of the Earth every day and also of their commitment to help ensure that we can continue doing so. The show will feature their research and investigations and shed light on how they have been connecting their findings to their circular building designs.

One could describe SUEP.’s work as a series of attempts to forge a new future by connecting architecture with our planet. What role can architects play in the effort to sustain the rich blessings of the Earth through coexisting with nature rather than exploiting it one-sidedly? The architects will put their ideas and experimentations on full display through this exhibition.