As we continue to navigate this new landscape of living with Covid, to accommodate a new normal, architects and designers have had to push the boundaries of innovation and creativity in areas we never thought we would have to explore. Many people have had to telework from their homes, forcing them to adjust and change lifestyle priorities. In this issue wood is a recurring theme, which speaks to us in terms of sustainability. The wood element is one that seeks ways to grow and expand. Maybe this moment in time has been given to us to reflect on the past and find ways to grow and expand our minds to think and work in more sustainable ways. This edition of Merci Magazine provides some solace from the continuing global pandemic and you are able to get some hints for your lifestyle from some of the hidden gems in Japan.