Penguin Environmental Design L.L.C.

08/04/2026

Shishi-odoshi, a traditional Japanese water feature in the garden we designed.

06/03/2026

In the creation of Japanese gardens, there is a traditional technique known as Shakkei, or “borrowed scenery.” It is the art of incorporating the landscape beyond the property’s boundaries so seamlessly that it appears to be an integral part of the garden itself. However, this spatial manipulation—framing and capturing an outside view—is not unique to landscape design; it is also frequently employed in architecture through the strategic design of windows and openings.

In the creation of Japanese gardens, there is a traditional technique known as Shakkei, or “borrowed scenery.” It is the art of incorporating the landscape beyond the property’s boundaries so seamlessly that it appears to be an integral part of the garden itself. However, this spatial manipula...

05/26/2026

A recent visit to a client’s home, where we designed the sunroom and patio a few years ago. I believe this project perfectly embodies PED’s core motto: 'Designing place from the outside-In.' We intended to seamlessly connect the sunroom with the patio, allowing it to become a natural extension of the surrounding garden and woodland scenery. Knowing that this space directly contributes to our client's well-being brings the ultimate fulfillment as a designer.

05/07/2026

Space for Well-being News: Moving Boundaries Symposium, Focusing on the Japanese Garden as a Healing Garden

05/05/2026

Focusing on the Japanese Garden as a Healing Garden

It has long been observed that Japanese gardens and traditional architectural spaces offer profound psychological and physical healing effects for those who inhabit them. At PED, we are convinced that the essence of these restorative spaces can be integrated into modern architecture worldwide. We continue to conduct research to bridge these traditional wisdoms with contemporary design.

Japanese gardens and traditional architectural spaces offer profound psychological and physical healing effects for those who inhabit them.

05/04/2026

We are honored to announce that Yoko Kawai will be one of the lecturers of the international symposium called "Moving Boundaries Japan" in August.

04/20/2026

A look behind the scenes: We are in the process of stabilizing a steep hillside using Geocells. This structural component is essential for preventing erosion and ensuring the long-term stability of the terrain in our project.

04/14/2026

During my recent trip to Japan, I visited the National Museum of Western Art in Ueno, Tokyo. The building was designed by Le Corbusier, with his three prominent Japanese disciples—Junzo Sakakura, Kunio Maekawa, and Takamasa Yoshizaka—heavily involved in the project. Even though I arrived right at opening time, there was already a long line of visitors.

04/08/2026

At the request of the client, a professional artist, I integrated a traditional 'Ranma' (transom window) into the studio wall. The soft, diffused light filtering through adds a refined Japanese accent to this contemporary space.

04/08/2026

The artist's studio we designed was completed!