The Pritzker Prize for Architecture is the highest international award in the field of architecture, given annually to one or more architects of talent, vision, and commitment. The winner of the 2024 award is Riken Yamamoto, who is known for his use of high-tech building materials, his focus on the integration of architecture and the environment, and his emphasis on the design principle that architectural space influences the way people behave. For you to get to know this architect, let’s delve into the life and career of Riken Yamamoto. Explore his famous works and the architectural styles that have earned him the highest honors in the field.
Who’s Riken Yamamoto?
Rihan Yamamoto was born in Beijing in 1945 and then grew up in Yokohama, Japan. As a young boy, the family lived in a house that resembled a traditional Japanese townhouse. After a visit to the Kofuku-ji Temple in Nara, Japan, he was fascinated by its five-storied pagoda, which was his first experience of architecture. His career proved his belief that architecture should be an extension of nature, not a dominator of it.
His architectural life
In 1968, Riken Yamamoto graduated from the Department of Architecture, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Nihon University, and later received a master’s degree from Tokyo University of the Arts. He founded his studio in 1973. His earliest solo project was Yamakawa Hills (1977), a private residence in the woods.
Throughout his career, Yamamoto has worked to push the boundaries of architectural design. He is not just an architect, he is a thinker who uses architecture to tell stories and solve problems. From small homes to airports and universities, Riken Yamamoto’s buildings have always been about creating the right space with the human unit in mind.
Riken Yamamoto’s Notable Architectural Works
Riken Yamamoto’s portfolio is a collection of masterpieces that showcase his unique approach to architectural design. Let’s take a look at some of his most famous pieces.
Nagoya Zokei University
Nagoya Zokei University, a private art college, relocated to the city of Nagoya in 2022, while Yamamoto designed the architecture for the new campus. The school’s buildings are colored in white and logs for a cleaner look, in keeping with the atmosphere of its art college. Walking around the campus, you can feel the energy and vitality inspired by the design. It’s like walking into a living laboratory, with opportunities for exploration and discovery around every corner.
Zurich Airport The Circle Complex
The Circle is located just west of Zurich Airport, a center for business and living. More like a mini-city than a building, the building has a curved facade and an interior of streets and squares that resemble traditional Swiss neighborhoods. A large number of recycled materials were used in the choice of materials, as well as plants and solar panels on the roof. The layout of the complex promotes ease of movement while providing space for relaxation and recreation. It is a busy microcosm that distills the energy of modern life.
Tianjin Library
Tianjin Library is a mega library located in Tianjin, China. The exterior skin of the library is made of stone louvers, which, in addition to meeting the practical need for protection against high winds, maintain the transparency of the facade, and the resulting soft light creates a cozy atmosphere for reading. The internal open design provides a sense of permeability to this large building and creates a hovering effect. White is also used as the theme color, which allows readers to read in peace.
ECOMS Aluminum House
The house, located in Tosu City, Japan, was commissioned by an aluminum apparatus company. The main body of the house is an aluminum structure, made of a combination of aluminum grating, aluminum panels, and glass. The panels are interchangeable, and the aluminum house, designed and manufactured in 2004, reveals a different sense of the future. The exterior glass panels provide a sense of transparency.
The design of the house emphasizes simplicity and efficiency, with clean lines and open spaces that maximize the use of natural light. This proves Yamamoto’s ability to break the mold and create a house that is both beautiful and environmentally friendly.
Architectural Style
Yamamoto’s architectural style is a harmonious blend of form and function. His projects often incorporate natural elements, prioritizing sustainability and creating organic and vibrant spaces. And he emphasizes community culture. He designs spaces that encourage interaction and foster a sense of belonging. Whether it’s a college campus or a public library, Yamamoto’s buildings bring people together.
At the heart of Yamamoto’s architecture is a focus on the human experience. His designs prioritize comfort, accessibility, and usability, ensuring that the spaces he creates are not only visually stunning but also highly functional.
Conclusion
As the 46th Pritzker Prize winner, Riken Yamamoto’s work has always evoked a sense of connection, and Riken Yamamoto’s architectural works are more than just buildings; they express his visionary commitment to enhancing the human experience. Through his innovative designs, Yamamoto redefines what architecture can achieve, creating spaces that inspire and transform.
As we continue to explore the potential of architecture to shape the world, Yamamoto’s work is a powerful reminder of the impact that thoughtful design can have on our lives. His designs challenge us to rethink our relationship with the built environment, urging us to create spaces that nurture individuals and communities.
