Japanese Architecture and Design Examples

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Questions and Answers

What are the three attributes of buildings, according to Vitruvius?

Sustainability, Functionality, and Aesthetics

Firmitas, Utilitas, and Durability

Ephemerality, Lightness, and De-materialization

Strength, Utility, and Beauty (correct)

What is a common characteristic of contemporary architecture, made possible through technology advancements and material selection?

Maximalism and complexity

Durability and stability

Minimalism and simplicity

Ephemerality and lightness (correct)

What is a unique aspect of ephemerality in architecture culture in Japan?

Emphasis on spiritual buildings and beliefs (correct)

Influence of Western architectural styles

Use of heavy and dense materials

Prioritization of durability and sustainability

What is the significance of the Shikinen Sengu ceremony in Japan?

It is a spiritual ritual to rebuild shrines every 20 years Signup and view all the answers

How many cypress trees are needed to rebuild the shrines during the Shikinen Sengu ceremony?

10,000 Signup and view all the answers

When are the present shrines, dating from 2013, scheduled to be rebuilt?

2033 Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of the celebrations and events accompanying the reconstruction?

To preserve traditional carpentry techniques Signup and view all the answers

Which architectural firm designed the Garden and House SANAA?

SANAA Ryue Nishizawa + Kazuyo Sejima Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the 'curtain wall' in the Garden and House SANAA?

To control interior conditions such as view, light, and wind Signup and view all the answers

What is unique about the deck spaces in the Garden and House SANAA?

They are attached on the east and south sides of the second-floor living room Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of closing the external glazed doors and curtains in the Garden and House SANAA?

To provide insulation during winter Signup and view all the answers

In what kind of neighborhood is the Moriyama House located?

A traditional part of Tokyo Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of the Glass Pavillion at the Toledo Museum of Art?

A glass making facility and exhibition space for the museum's glass collection Signup and view all the answers

How do the individual volumes on the site interact with each other?

They are scattered across the site, creating a series of individual gardens Signup and view all the answers

What is the unique feature of the River building at Grace Farms?

Its single long roof that seems to float above the ground Signup and view all the answers

What is the change in grade of the terrain at Grace Farms?

43 ft – 9 in Signup and view all the answers

What is the current use of some of the buildings on the site?

They are rented to create a small community of little dwellings Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary material used in the construction of the River building at Grace Farms?

Glass, concrete, steel, and wood Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Community and Tradition in Reconstruction

Celebrations and events engage the entire community, preserving traditions and construction methods.
These activities ensure the continuation of carpentry techniques.

Key Architectural Works and Their Concepts

Sendai Mediatheque (Toyo Ito, 2000): Notable for its blend of structural innovation and community space.
Curtain Wall House (Shigeru Ban Architects, 2005): Features a "curtain wall" for light and ventilation control while offering insulation in winter.
Pao: Dwellings for a Tokyo Nomad Woman (Toyo Ito + Kazuyo Sejima, 1985-89): A prototypical space exploring modern living needs.

Key Examples of Ephemerality

Garden and House (SANAA, 2006): Designed with a strong connection to nature, utilizing contemporary materials and extensive outdoor decks.
Moriyama House (SANAA, 2005): Comprises independent volumes creating an interconnected community, with diverse uses and garden spaces.
Glass Pavilion at Toledo Museum of Art (SANAA, 2006): A transparent annex facilitating an interaction between art and landscape through multiple courtyards.
Grace Farms (SANAA, 2015): Architecturally influenced by the natural terrain, embodying a flowing, roof-like structure that integrates with the landscape.

Theories of Architecture

Vitruvius highlights three essential building attributes: strength, utility, and beauty, foundational to Ancient Roman architecture.
Contemporary architecture increasingly embraces qualities like ephemerality, lightness, and de-materialization, enabled by technological advancements and design intention.

Cultural Context of Ephemerality in Japanese Architecture

Influences on Japanese architecture include spiritual beliefs, the transition to online existence, and responses to natural disasters.
Shikinen Sengu Ceremony: Ritual of reconstructing shrines every 20 years, reflecting cultural beliefs in renewal—features the preparation of timber and ceremonial tree cutting.
Current iteration of the Sengu ceremony, rebuilt in 2013, is the 62nd, with the next scheduled for 2033, demonstrating ongoing tradition and craftsmanship.