Architecture has the potential to rise above its basic function of providing shelter by making structures that are attractive for people to mingle, socialize or immerse in beautiful surroundings. This year’s Pritzker Prize, Architecture’s highest honor, went to Japanese designer and architect, Riken Yamamoto (b 1945) for building residences that unites private and public spaces in a way that welcomes both guests and passersby. From the very beginning of his practice, Yamamoto has been been a fervent champion of this communal approach to architecture. His first project, Yamakawa Villa in Nagano, Japan, is exposed on all sides and is situated in the woods, making the residence feel entirely like an open-air terrace. The experience significantly influenced his future works as he extended into social housing, bridging cultures and generations through relational living and even into larger structures such as the Saitama Prefectural University in Koshigaya, Japan, The Circle at Zurich Airport, and the Yokosuka Museum of Art in Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan.
Born in 1945, Yamamoto nearly became an engineer, following the footsteps of his father who died when he was five. Instead, he forged a path in architecture, inspired by a visit to Kôfuku-ji Temple, in Nara when he was 17. He was captivated by the ancient temple built in 730, especially the five-storied pagoda symbolizing the five Buddhist elements of earth, water, fire, air and space. “It was very dark, but I could see the wooden tower illuminated by the light of the moon and what I found at that moment was my first experience with architecture.” At the age of 28, Yamamoto founded his practice, Riken Yamamoto & Field Shop in Yokohama where he continues to practice and reside. Yamamoto has received numerous other honors including being appointed Academician by the International Academy of Architecture in 2013. He currently teaches as a visiting professor at Tokyo University of the Arts.
Selected Architectural Works of Riken Yamamoto
Yamakawa Villa, Yatsugatake, Nagano Prefecture, Japan.
The Yamakawa Villa (1977) was Yamamoto’s first project, and one that greatly influenced his subsequent works. At first glance, the villa seems unassuming, but on looking deeper, one begins to see the genius of the design. The villa spans a site area of 10250 square meters, with a modest built-in area of just 168 square meters. However, its architectural significance is monumental. The entirely wood structure rises modestly to a maximum height of 370 cm and blends seamlessly into its wooded setting. The decision to situate each room independently on the deck is a deliberate move to treat each room as an isolated entity under the overarching canopy of the roof, thereby prioritizing the interior’s relationship with the environment. Similarly, the small, carefully placed windows of each room offers controlled views that frame the natural beauty outside, ensuring that even within the most private quarters, one is never far from the natural landscape.
Yokosuka Museum of Art, Kanagawa, Japan (2006)
Facing the sea to the north and surrounded by mountains, the Yokosuka Museum is a site to behold. To integrate the museum with the environment, the architects buried most of the structure in the ground. The interior space is covered by a double-skin roof that controls sunlight and offers visitors the experience to enjoy the art objects while remaining connected with the outside.
The Circle at Zurich Airport (2020)
One of the largest structures in Switzerland, the Circle is a multifunctional space designed by Riken Yamamoto. It is not just a building, but a city in dialogue with people. Taking a leaf from the design of Mediaeval cities, between the building units, the Circle is criss-crossed by alleys and squares like a traditional city center. Alleys and squares serve as outdoor spaces open to the public 24/7. To ensure sustainability, these spaces are partially covered with a glass roof to protect against the elements but allow the outdoor climate to be experienced without air conditioning. The entire complex is presented as a curved glass surface to the airport, bus and tram hub and opens to the green space of a park, establishing direct rapport between building and landscape.
