The architecture and design-focused cultural space by TOTO LTD., Japan, is marking its 40th anniversary this year. Since opening its doors in Tokyo in 1985, the gallery has brought together some of the world’s most respected architects and emerging talents, creating a platform where ideas, creativity and cultural perspectives meet.
In the last four decades, the gallery has hosted over 179 exhibitions and 313 lectures, drawing in more than 1.5 million visitors. It continues to serve as a space for both discovery and learning—where architecture is not just a profession, but a way to engage with the society, environment, and the future.
To mark the milestone, what are the initiatives planned for India and one thing about TOTO’s cultural initiatives that Indian consumers should know?
Shiozawa Kazuyuki: TOTO’s cultural initiatives bring global design and architecture closer to everyday life, keeping in mind the Sustainable Development Goals by give and take from the environment.
To mark the 40th anniversary of the gallery, we’re excited to bring that spirit to India. Our Delhi showroom already serves as a hub for design dialogue, and we plan to deepen this with curated experiences and stronger engagement with the architecture and design community.
Showcasing titles by our Special Advisor Ar. Tadao Ando in our showroom library, the work will be accessible to all visitors and will form part of our ongoing effort to foster cross-cultural design conversations between Japan and India.
Why was Ar. Tadao Ando’s work chosen for the showroom library, and what kind of experience do you hope it creates for Indian visitors?
Shiozawa Kazuyuki: Ar. Tadao Ando’s work was chosen for the showroom library as it reflects TOTO’s philosophy of simplicity, harmony, and connection with nature. As a globally celebrated architect and a founding member of the TOTO Design Advisory Committee, Ando’s vision has deeply influenced TOTO’s approach. For Indian visitors, his presence in the library creates an inspiring and thoughtful space that elevates design beyond function
Additionally, the gallery will host a series of exhibitions in the upcoming months, including a special exhibition marking 100 years since the birth of Kazuo Shinohara and a showcase by award-winning South Asian architect Marina Tabassum.
How do exhibitions like the Kazuo Shinohara centennial or Marina Tabassum’s showcase help everyday people connect with architecture on a personal level?
Shiozawa Kazuyuki: Such exhibitions show how architecture connects deeply with everyday life. This gives the visitor an in-depth view point of the Architect’s thought process and his/her design philosophy, making the visitor think beyond the conventional architecture paradigm. With Indian architects actively shaping the future of architecture that is sustainable, inclusive and contextual, there’s growing potential for meaningful collaboration between the two countries in this space.
How does TOTO’s design philosophy influence the way people experience their homes beyond just functionality?
Shiozawa Kazuyuki: Our design philosophy goes beyond functionality by integrating technology, sustainability, and aesthetics to enrich daily living. By focusing on comfort, usability, and timeless design, TOTO transforms Conventional Routine into experiences of well-being and luxury, allowing people to feel a deeper sense of harmony, relaxation, and pride in their homes
What can visitors expect when they walk into the Delhi showroom—how is it designed to inspire rather than just sell?
Shiozawa Kazuyuki: Our showroom is Spread Across an area of 11000 sq. ft, is a true reflection of our luxury positioning, where we have showcased our specially curated luxury products displayed in both Contemporary and Minimalistic style. In the bespoken luxury segment where we have showcased our iconic NEOREST as our flagship product, WASHLET, Z selection faucets, Showers, Thin Rim basins with our newly launched seasoned themed basins and coloured faucets. To elevate the experience further, we have dedicated NEOREST experience restrooms, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the pinnacle of TOTO luxury and innovation.
