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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

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