me – world – cosmos: Through the Architectural Thoughts of Seiichi Shirai Part 1 Dissertation 2026 Miyu Umezawa University of the West of England | UK This work explores the architectural ideas of the Japanese architect Seiichi Shirai (1905–1983), asking how they can be understood and developed in today’s world, where different cultures, histories, and values interact.When Shirai was active in post-war Japan, architects debated tradition and Japanese identity as Western culture became increasingly influential. Shirai argued that preserving tradition did not mean following a single culture. Instead, he believed traditions could be renewed by learning from different cultures and histories, understanding their relationships, and reflecting on them critically.Describing tofu as the most beautiful design in everyday life and the Sydney Opera House as an example of ideal architecture, Shirai revealed a view of design and architecture shaped by refinement, the creator's discipline, cultural identity, and cosmic awareness. This work examines the architectural debates of the 1950s and Shirai’s later interest in calligraphy to explore the development of his ideas.The work is presented inside a box, with chapters developed as loose sheets, booklets, and small boxes. Tofu and the Sydney Opera House, such object-based ones, are presented as booklets, while the architectural debates and calligraphy, such action-based ones, are presented as small boxes.Most chapters are removable, allowing readers to engage with the work freely. Although numbers suggest a sequence, readers are encouraged to create their own paths. By forming their own connections between chapters, readers become part of the work, allowing it to continue evolving through their interpretations of Shirai’s ideas. Tutor(s) Nick Drofiak