Our Partnership
The recent collaboration between ArchiLab and the Moku Landscape Design marks a sophisticated synthesis of contemporary Emirati architectural innovation and centuries-old Japanese landscape craftsmanship. By uniting ArchiLabʼs expertise in regionally responsive, modern spatial design with Moku Landscape Designʼs Japanese artisans, the partnership bridges the built form with the natural world. This synergy addresses a rising regional demand for authentic japanese landscaping design by integrating nature into interior architectural spaces and curated courtyards through introducing bespoke, meticulously engineered traditional and modern Japanese gardens directly into the highend residential and urban landscapes of Dubai.
Grounded in a shared philosophical respect for context and environmental harmony, the collaboration focuses on blurring the boundaries between architecture and the exterior urban realm. Utilizing Moku Gardenʼs specialized consulting and construction management, the partnership infuses ArchiLabʼs architectural frameworks with structural elements inspired by nature and waterfeatures. The resulting spaces are designed to foster community resilience and everyday tranquility, establishing a new benchmark for luxury, multi-sensory environments that honor both the unique climate of the Middle East and the minimalist, disciplined beauty of Japanese master craftsmanship.
Akane Ishitoku
Akane Ishitoku is the Managing Director of Moku landscape design in Dubai, overseeing the Middle East market and international projects for 1moku.
Born in Japan and educated in New Zealand, she holds a master’s degree in International Business. Before joining 1moku’s overseas operations in 2017, she worked at Deloitte as a strategy consultant, focusing on global strategy projects for major Japanese corporations.
Growing up on a small island in Japan and experiencing the nature of New Zealand shaped her deep connection to landscapes. With a strong passion for art, she is dedicated to preserving Japanese landscape techniques and creating artistic spaces that harmonize with the land and people’s way of living.
Hirofumi Suga
Hirofumi Suga is the CEO of 1moku Inc. and 1moku Spain. His major works include the rooftop garden of Shanghai Grand Cinema, the shrine garden of Chinzanso, and the garden of Taikoen.
Suga began working as a landscape gardener at Shinwa Zoen Co., Ltd. in Tokyo when he was 17 years old. In 1994 at the age of 22, he became independent and established Ichimoku Isseki, a landscape design and gardening company in Osaka later renamed to '1moku'.
Suga's philosophy is reminiscent of the traditional role and approach of the gardener. He excels at designing the entire space with a holistic approach, ensuring that both the garden and the building function in harmony.
