TOTO Reinforces Global Leadership, Invites Renowned SANAA Architects to Inspire Thai Design

On September 12, 2024, at TOTO Technical Center, 12th floor, G Tower Building, TOTO (Thailand) Co., Ltd., the leading manufacturer and distributor of bathroom products and accessories in Japan, with a history of more than 100 years, led by Mr. Seiichiro Sato, President of TOTO (Thailand) Co., Ltd., organized a special event called “Architect Talk 2024: Architecture & Environment” to respond to the philosophy of the founder who is committed to “creating a more perfect and convenient life” and to align with TOTO’s global environmental vision (or TOTO Global Environmental Vision) that emphasizes people’s lifestyles in all dimensions, including cleanliness and convenience, environmental care, and good relationships with people in society, especially social activities that TOTO has a concept of being a bridge to pass on and exchange cultures and ideas of architects and designers. To support this goal, TOTO established TOTO Gallery Ma in 1985, a gallery that exhibits the works of architects and designers who specialize in design. In addition, lectures are organized for students, scholars, and those involved in the architecture business in Japan and TOTO’s business groups in other countries.

This year marks the third annual TOTO event, which began in 2020. We are honored to welcome Ms. Kazuyo Sejima and Mr. Ryue Nishizawa, founders and principals of the world-renowned architecture firm SANAA, as our keynote speakers. Internationally acclaimed for their diverse portfolio spanning the globe, Ms. Sejima and Mr. Nishizawa have garnered numerous prestigious awards, including the 2010 Pritzker Prize—often referred to as architecture’s Nobel Prize.

“The 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art” in Kanazawa, Japan, is one of the first and most significant projects. Located in the historic heart of Kanazawa, the circular building lacks a defined front or back, inviting visitors from all directions. Its flexible gallery spaces, abundant natural light, and interconnected public areas foster a sense of openness and community engagement. The museum seamlessly blends art and architecture, offering a unique and inspiring experience.

21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art Kanazawa, Kanazawa_Exterior 

Photo by SANAA

Furthermore, the duo presented their experiences and conceptual approaches to other notable projects such as the Louvre-Lens in France, the Bocconi University New Urban Campus in Italy, The Art Gallery of New South Wales in Australia and New Kagawa Prefectural Gymnasium.

Bocconi University New Urban Campus Photo by SANAA
	Louvre-Lens_Exterior photo by SANAA
The Art Gallery of New South Wales 22-11 SANAA 1372_Photo by Iwan Baan
	New Kagawa Prefectural Gymnasium photo by SANAA

The atmosphere at the event was filled with many honorable guests from the Thai real estate industry who attended the lecture. It was a very special experience to listen to the design concepts and experiences of two famous architects up close, which greatly impressed the participants.

The lecture atmosphere on the topic of “Architecture & Environment” by Mr. Kazuyo Sejima and Mr. Ryu Nishizawa.

Question and Answer session and exhibition zone of SANAA’s works within the event.

From left to right: Mrs. Korakoth Kunalungkarn (President of the Thai Interior Designers Association), Ms. Kazuyo Sejima (Founder and Principal of SANAA), Mr. Ryue Nishizawa (Founder and Principal of SANAA), and Mr. Seiichiro Sato,  President of TOTO (Thailand) Co.,ltd.

• facebook
• twitter
• line