Kengo Kuma, born August 8, 1954, in Yokohama, Japan, is a prominent Japanese architect celebrated for his innovative use of natural materials and his commitment to harmonizing architecture with the environment. He studied architecture at the University of Tokyo, graduating in 1979, and later continued his studies at Columbia University. In 1990, he founded Kengo Kuma & Associates, which has grown into an internationally recognized firm with offices in Tokyo, Paris, and Beijing. Influenced by traditional Japanese design and a desire to counter the rigidity of modernist architecture, Kuma emphasizes human-scale buildings, lightness, and the integration of architecture with nature. His work often incorporates wood, stone, and bamboo, reflecting both a regional sensitivity and a global ecological awareness.
Kuma’s architectural philosophy is encapsulated in his concept of “anti-object,” which seeks to dissolve the boundaries between buildings and their surroundings. This vision has been realized in numerous significant projects, including the Suntory Museum of Art in Tokyo, the Asakusa Culture and Tourism Center, and the Nezu Museum. Internationally, his work includes the V&A Dundee in Scotland and the Nagasaki Prefectural Art Museum. One of his most high-profile commissions was the Japan National Stadium, designed for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, which showcases layered wooden eaves inspired by traditional temple architecture. Throughout his career, Kuma has also taught extensively and authored several influential books on architecture, solidifying his role as a leading voice in contemporary design.
Select Projects:
Sunny Hills, Tokyo Japan
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