Nature Within: The Architecture of Toyo Ito

Nature Within: The Architecture of Toyo Ito is a solo exhibition focusing on the works of Toyo Ito, one of Japan’s most prominent architects. Over his career spanning more than fifty years, Ito has made his mark on the architecture world with his innovative and conceptual designs. In particular, he is renowned for making use of open space in a way that evokes the feeling of being outdoors, even when indoors.

This exhibition focuses on three of Ito’s iconic works: Sendai Mediatheque (2000), ‘Minna no Mori’ Gifu Media Cosmos (2015), and Ibaraki City Culture and Child-rearing Support Complex ONIKURU (2023). These public buildings are constantly teeming with life, facilitated by the creation of fluid spaces with fewer walls, rather than functionally defined rooms. These design features encourage flexibility, allowing users to freely wander and choose their spots as if they are in a natural environment.

With architectural models, sketches and photography by Iwan Baan on display, Nature Within showcases some of Ito’s most notable projects, from concept to completion. It is hoped that this exhibition will spark conversations about the evolving possibilities of architecture, and the shapes that exceptional architecture may take on in years to come.

Nature Within: The Architecture of Toyo Ito will be held at The Japan Foundation Gallery from January 31 to April 18, 2026.

Photos by Document Photography