Exploring the harmony of nature, culture, and sustainability through groundbreaking designs
An Architect Rooted in Hokkaido’s Forests
Your architectural journey spans acclaimed projects like the Serpentine Gallery Pavilion in London and “L’Arbre Blanc” in Montpellier. How has your upbringing in Hokkaido shaped your vision?
Growing up in Hokkaido, I often played in wild forests, unaware of their influence on my future career. When I began studying architecture, I realized how these childhood experiences shaped my understanding of scale, diversity, and purpose. Hokkaido’s natural environment contrasted sharply with Tokyo’s urban landscape, where I later studied. Walking through Tokyo’s bustling streets felt akin to exploring a forest, with power lines and small structures echoing the branches and undergrowth of trees. This connection between architecture and nature became a foundational element of my design philosophy, inspiring spaces that celebrate diversity and invite personal exploration.
The Philosophy Behind “L’Arbre Blanc”
“L’Arbre Blanc” blends organic forms with urban design, incorporating terraces that mimic tree branches. Can you elaborate on this concept?
This project was born from a design competition by Montpellier City Council in 2013. The goal was to create a landmark that embraced eco-friendliness while honoring the city’s heritage. Montpellier’s Mediterranean lifestyle, where outdoor activities are a way of life, inspired the building’s expansive balconies and outdoor spaces. Rather than a singular artistic vision, the design evolved through collaboration and a shared understanding of local culture, resulting in a structure that harmonizes natural and urban elements.
Japanese Traditions in a Global Context
Japanese architecture often intertwines with nature. How do you reflect these traditions in your international projects?
Traditional Japanese homes integrate light materials and natural surroundings, emphasizing seamless transitions between interior and exterior spaces. This philosophy influenced my project, House N, where layers of space blur the line between indoors and outdoors, creating a modern interpretation of “ma” – the Japanese concept of space and silence. My aim is to adapt these traditions globally, reinventing them to align with local contexts while preserving their essence.
Sustainability as a Design Pillar
Sustainability is increasingly crucial in architecture. How do you incorporate it into your projects?
Sustainability is central to my work, especially through innovative uses of wood. For instance, the roof of the Osaka Kansai Expo, opening in 2025, is one of the largest wooden structures globally. By combining ancient Japanese techniques with modern technology, we showcase wood as a sustainable material of the future. My designs aim to foster connections between people, nature, and urban spaces, creating environments that honor diverse lifestyles while addressing global environmental challenges.
Unity in Diversity: The 2025 Japan International Expo
As the Expo 2025 site producer, what is your vision for this global event?
The Expo symbolizes “Unity in Diversity,” a space where people and cultures connect. The centerpiece, a vast wooden ring, exemplifies this theme. Constructed using traditional Japanese techniques, it combines ancient craftsmanship with modern innovation. I hope visitors experience the ring as a testament to sustainability, cultural heritage, and the possibilities of global collaboration.
Fusing Music and Nature in Design
The “House of Music” has earned international acclaim. What inspired its unique integration with the forest?
The project’s starting point was its location in a beautiful forest. The architecture transitions seamlessly from the forest to the interior, with a glass music hall that invites the natural surroundings into the space. This approach creates a sensory experience where visitors feel the harmony between music and nature.
Designing for Cultural Diversity
How do you balance local cultural values with your design philosophy in international projects?
Each culture has a deep history and unique lifestyle that must be respected. My role as an architect is to honor these traditions while connecting them to the future. By listening to local narratives, I aim to create designs that resonate globally yet remain rooted in their specific cultural contexts.
Sou Fujimoto
Key Messages from Dubai
During your visit to Dubai with Al-Futtaim Contracting and Toto Japan, what insights did you share?
I emphasized the importance of integrating sustainability, cultural harmony, and innovation into design. Architecture must bridge tradition and modernity while fostering connections between urban spaces and nature. This dialogue is essential for creating a sustainable and inclusive future.
Through each project, I strive to craft spaces that reflect the beauty of diversity, the richness of tradition, and the boundless potential of innovation.