Design Policy
Edward Suzuki Associates have been applying, for some time, the concepts, ideas, and know-how of Japanese daily living developed and tested over time in traditional Japanese architecture, primarily in the realm of housing. Especially after World War II, Japan unfortunately abandoned the wisdom that was prevalent in traditional Japanese architecture just to embrace “Modernism,” or so-called “International Style,” propagated in the West. As a result, we believe that a lot of merits inherent in the old ways of Japanese lifestyle and building techniques were lost in the name of modernity. We at ESA are now trying to learn from such a misfortune and relearn and reapply the principles that at one time made Japanese architecture a success. And to do so not by returning to the past, but by looking back in order to look forward, with not only old but also new materials, technology, and design innovations. The following “Interface: Learning from Engawa (and Other Traditional Japanese Design Styles)” is basically ESA’s DESIGN POLICY and gives 12 good examples of such traditional Japanese wisdom, amongst many more, from which we try to borrow to achieve a sustainable and healthy, comfortable, and happy home.
