Genius Architects

Vol.1 Kengo Kuma

1. Who is Kengo Kuma?

Kengo Kuma is a renowned Japanese architect and designer who was born in Kanagawa in 1954. At the age of 10, he was inspired by the Yoyogi Stadium and set his heart on becoming an architect. Kuma went on to study architecture at the University of Tokyo, graduating from the Faculty of Engineering's Department of Architecture. He later completed a master's degree in architectural design in 1979. Kuma then moved to New York to further his studies at Columbia University and became a professor at both American and Japanese universities.

In 1990, Kuma established his own architectural firm, Kengo Kuma & Associates, which has since become one of the most respected practices in the world. He is known for his unique principles that reinterpret traditional Japanese aesthetics and style, with the aim of re-balancing the relationship between humanity and the natural environment. Specifically, Kuma is recognized for his use of natural materials such as wood and paper, and his use of light and shadow to create a sense of fluidity and calm in his buildings.

Kuma has designed a wide range of buildings and structures, from small residential homes to large public institutions. His practices and principles have been recognized with numerous awards, including the Order of Arts and Letters from the French government, and he was named one of Time Magazine's 100 most influential people in the world in 2020.

Next post will be about his works, stay tuned!