GUILIN– The Harvard University Graduate School of Design (Harvard GSD) has officially launched the themed exhibition "Designers of Mountain and Water: Alternative Landscapes for a Changing Climate." As a model of sustainable development in Asia, Integral was invited to participate and distinguished itself among 60 selected projects, becoming one of the few works presented in the form of a physical scale model. Together with leading global design practitioners, it explores pathways for resilience amid the climate crisis.

© Justin Knight Photography

The exhibition seeks to rediscover the traditional Asian philosophy of "Shanshui" (Mountain and Water)—not only as an artistic inspiration, but as a crystallization of ancient wisdom in balancing societal progress with natural ecosystems. In an era of growing climate challenges, the exhibition calls for innovative solutions that harmonize human civilization with ecological equilibrium, exploring how design can help shape a livable future for a changing world.

© Justin Knight Photography

As the tangible realization of Esquel Group’s vision, Integral demonstrates how abstract concepts are translated into concrete and measurable impact through its sustainability practices:

· A Living Model of Visionary Action: More than just a landscape garden or a manufacturing site, Integral serves as a real-world demonstration of Esquel’s vision of "Making a Difference"—focusing on tackling climate change and narrowing the wealth gap. Here, sustainable thinking is transformed into actionable solutions with measurable outcomes.

· A Multidimensional Climate Response: Through systematic ecological restoration and highly integrated Energy Management Systems, Integral actively advances the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). From the restoration and expansion of ecological wetlands to the rigorous control of production emissions, these initiatives significantly reduce carbon footprints while rebuilding a self-sustaining, vibrant ecosystem. This demonstrates both the possibility and feasibility of harmonious coexistence between industry and nature.

· A Bridge from Theory to Reality: Integral remains committed to turning sustainable ideas into actionable solutions. This commitment is further extended through The Knowledge Hub, which convenes global experts, scholars, and industry leaders to build a comprehensive educational platform. Through this platform, Integral fosters diverse practical initiatives to drive global sustainability. Participation in this exhibition demonstrates to the international community that Integral offers not only profound insights but also tangible achievements through landscape reshaping, technological innovation, and knowledge empowerment.

The landscape of Integral was designed by the Bangkok-based architecture and design studio P Landscape (PLA). As a globally oriented landscape design practice bringing together a diverse team of landscape architects, horticulturists, and artists, PLA played a pivotal role in recommending Integral for inclusion at Harvard GSD as a representative example of Asian landscape wisdom.

Curated by Jungyoon Kim, Associate Professor in Practice of Landscape Architecture at Harvard GSD, the exhibition is currently open to the public at the Druker Design Gallery and will run through May 15, 2026. We cordially invite visitors from all sectors to experience firsthand Integral’s innovative vision and explore how manufacturing and nature can coexist in perfect harmony.

Back