# Synergistic Eco Architecture 'Sliding Nature' Marries Traditional Japanese and Western Designs By Rahul Kalvapalle | Published 2014-03-21 | Eco Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/sliding-nature References: [designboom](http://www.designboom.com/architecture/panasonic-sliding-nature-torafu-architects-milan-design-week-2014-03-10-2014/) & [torafu](http://torafu.com/about/) 'Sliding Nature' is a structure that will be built by Torafu Architects at the behest of [Panasonic](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/wholehome-ventilation). Torafu proposes to build a "house that breathes" to demonstrate how built-up living environments can be harmonized with nature and address the relationship between tradition and technology. The construction will be revealed at [Milan Design Week](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/milan-bakery) in April 2014. Panasonic will utilize the installation to showcase its technological and product developments. 'Sliding Nature' makes use of [traditional Japanese paper sliding doors](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/shou-sugi-ban) as the stand-out architectural feature. The laterally moving walls allow for a cool breeze and soft daylight to enter the interior. The openings are underlit by LED lights that represent better energy management as well as the ability to match lighting to people's lifestyle. Torafu says it "wanted to create a space in which the private turns public, while integrating with the surroundings." Photo Credits: [designboom](http://www.designboom.com/architecture/panasonic-sliding-nature-torafu-architects-milan-design-week-2014-03-10-2014/), [torafu](http://torafu.com/about/) ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 4.7/10 - Popularity: 66% | Activity: 66% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: Europe, Asia ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Eco](https://www.trendhunter.com/eco) > [Eco Architecture](https://www.trendhunter.com/ecoarchitecture) ## Key Themes ### Key Themes Behind This Trend - **Harmonization of Built Environment and Nature:** The concept of 'Sliding Nature' demonstrates the potential for harmonizing built environments with nature, presenting opportunities for eco-friendly architecture and sustainable urban development. - **Integration of Traditional and Modern Design Elements:** The use of traditional Japanese paper sliding doors in 'Sliding Nature' showcases the potential for integrating traditional and modern design elements, creating opportunities for cross-cultural design collaborations and cultural preservation. - **Smart Lighting and Energy Management:** The LED lights in 'Sliding Nature' highlight advancements in energy management and personalized lighting, suggesting opportunities for smart lighting systems and energy-efficient design solutions. ### Where This Applies - **Architecture and Construction:** The 'Sliding Nature' concept presents opportunities for architects and builders to explore eco-friendly design principles and innovative construction techniques. - **Interior Design:** The integration of traditional Japanese sliding doors in 'Sliding Nature' offers possibilities for interior designers to incorporate cultural elements into contemporary spaces. - **Home Technology and Appliances:** The use of LED lights and other smart technology in 'Sliding Nature' showcases opportunities for home technology companies to develop energy-efficient products and integrated smart systems. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Traditional Japan-Honoring Homes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/c4l-house.md) - [Contemporary Timber Homes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/house-in-saidera.md) - [Interactive Architectural Pavilions](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/folding-landscape.md) - [Modern Multi-Purpose Japanese Buildings](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/muiltipurpose-japanese-building.md) - [Timber Tradition Homes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/fukasawa-residence.md) - [Minimal Japanese Home Designs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/house-in-kyobate.md) - [Renewed Kyoto Townhouses](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/studio-aluc.md) - [Shape‑shifting Retreats](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/modular-offgrid-house.md) - [Woodland Arts Pavilions](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/waterhouseoyama.md)