Skip to main content

Research: Kengo Kuma

The Angular Iiyama Cultural Hall in central Japan shows Kuma's architectural philosophy which is to "seamlessly integrating buildings with their surroundings, emphasising materials that reflect the local context and culture"(Real, 2024). The design has been created with the intention to engage with the surrounding landscapes. Kuma's approach considers the site's topography, climate, and cultural context, resulting in a building that blends with its environment.

The Angular Iiyama Cultural Hall

The Angular Iiyama Cultural Hall has been created with the intention to engage with the surrounding landscapes. It has a unique design with lively and non-linear shapes which makes it different from traditional architectural styles. The design highlights his creative use of natural elements such as wood, paper, bamboo, and glass (Kengo Kuma and Associates, 2015). Paper or Washi has a special place in the Japanese culture and is a material that Kuma uses a lot in his designs (abundance, 2022). I think that because the structure is mainly made of wood, it gives a structural and decorative aspect to the design, and paper and bamboo are used for interior. Kuma uses glass to have illuminated spaces that connect the building with its surroundings. Natural light and ventilation are also important for the interior environment. In 2024, Real quoted Kengo Kuma saying "We endeavor to capture the exquisite interplay between natural materials and this ever-changing light, showcasing the beauty of their harmonious composition". 

Studying Kengo Kuma's philosophy has shown me how to integrate architecture with nature, experiment with different materials and how to make sustainable designs .by using natural elements to promote sustainability, and to create a designs for people, I can develop an environmentally friendly designs.

Reference

abundance, zero = (2022). Kengo Kuma meets kogei (traditional Japanese craftsmanship): Kuma to Shika -. [online] zero = abundance. Available at: https://www.interactiongreen.com/kengo-kuma-shika-nakagawa/#:~:text=Kuma%20has%20been%20using%20washi [Accessed 12 May 2024].

Kengo Kuma and Associates. (2015). Iiyama Cultural Hall. [online] Available at: https://kkaa.co.jp/en/project/iiyama-cultural-hall/ [Accessed 12 May 2024].

Real, C. (2024). Harmonizing Nature: The Architectural Philosophy of Kengo Kuma. [online] Art Summit. Available at: https://www.art-summit.com/kengo-kuma/#:~:text=Kuma [Accessed 12 May 2024].

Comments

  1. Sam Dargan22 May 2024 at 04:38

    Okay, there is some depth to this research, but....... how much do you understand about what Kuma was trying to achieve with his design? How much do you understand regarding his use of materials, the climate he was designing for, the use of the building? This research post and others just reiterate the text you have found. And adding a brief and not informative paragraph on how this research has impacted your project doesn't answer the my questions!

    Tania, please make more of an effort with your research posts - research is important in order for you to better understand your industry and develop your practise.

    ReplyDelete

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Multi-faith centres and religious spaces

Multi-faith  centres are inclusive spaces that encourage dialogue, understanding, and collaboration among people from various religious backgrounds. They   provides a space where people of differing religious beliefs can spend time in contemplation or prayer  (Center for Architecture, 2023) .  These spaces promote diversity and unity through shared values and interfaith harmony. They provide a neutral setting for worship, dialogue, and community-building, contributing to inclusivity. The significance of these centres in promoting inclusivity and diversity lies in their celebration of diverse religious traditions and encouragement of interaction among different faiths. They also foster open dialogue to break down cultural and religious barriers through shared spaces and activities, as well as promote the idea that diversity is an asset by providing a space where all faiths are respected  (KAICIID, 2020).  Understanding diverse cultural and rel...
1 comment
Read more

St. Moritz by john Pawson : Research

 In this piece of research  will explore the St. Moritz church by John Pawson. I am writing about it because I am  gathering information for my architecture project which is a multi faith center and this church is one of my inspiration  St. Moritz church  St. Moritz Chapel, designed by John Pawson, is located in located in Augsburg, Germany. The artwork mirrors the peaceful beauty of the area and captures the interaction between nature and human influence in a harmonious manner. Pawson's minimalist style aligns with St. Moritz's cultural importance as a playground for the wealthy, combining modern simplicity with the traditional grace of the region. The piece embodies the attraction of this famous place, drawing from its special mix of sophistication and natural beauty. John Pawson is famous for his minimalist style, which emphasises simplicity, clarity, and a focus on the fundamental elements of design. The St. Moritz Chapel primarily uses white concrete, align...
1 comment
Read more

Final major project: Form and function

       The primary function of my project is to allow children to have a good time outside in a safe and sustainable place. Creating spaces that are in harmony with the environment, using eco-friendly materials, and promoting practices that help preserve our natural resources  Sustainable Playground I am creating this playground because in my city (Kitwe, Zambia) we have plenty of parks but people do not use them as they are not user-friendly and as a result they are not safe or maintained. The playground is located near city centre, where the vegetation is dense and will allow the users to have fresh air. Having a sustainable playground in Kitwe will allow the children of the community to engage together in a safe environment.          Reference         s.c, C.I.-S. (no date) Inter-Play Playground equipment, inter-play.eu. Available at: https://www.inter-play.eu/blog/eco-friendly-playgrounds:-a-rising-trend-in-t...
2 comments
Read more