Kengo KumaRooted into the vernacular Japanese architecture, the work of Kengo Kuma is well anchored in the 21st century. It is a perfect synthesis between East and West, tradition and creativity, nature and built environment.
Victoria & Albert Museum – Dundee, Scotland (in progress) The spectacular building which is due to be opened in 2014 maximizes its amazing location and meets rigorous 21st century environmental and sustainability regulations. The striking structural facade – composed of horizontal concrete bands clad in reconstituted stone – creates a dynamic texture, open to both natural light and ventilation.
GC Prostho Museum Research Center - Aichi, Japan (2010) Inspired by the cidori, a traditional Japanese toy building, the museum is constructed with 6000 sticks of cypress wood. The architect created a strong structural system consisting of surprisingly thin wooden components.
Lotus House – Eastern Japan (2006)Divided into two wings, the architecture plays with space and matter. For more lightness, the facades are composed of very thin travertine sheets suspended from a steel structure, creating a chessboard design.