Fuji Kindergarten in Tachikawa, Tokyo. Designed by Tezuka Architects. Completion in 2007. Photo by Katsuhisa Kida.
LOS ANGELES, CA – The Japan Foundation Los Angeles (JFLA) announces the second session of its Japanese Architects Talk Series, 5 Dimensions of Japanese Architecture, featuring Takaharu and Yui Tezuka of Tezuka Architects from Japan, and Prof. Don Choi of Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo.
The event will take place on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the JFLA Hall, located at 5700 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 100, Los Angeles, CA 90036. Admission is free, but registration is required.
Co-organized with the UCLA Terasaki Center for Japanese Studies, the UCLA Department of Architecture and Urban Design, and UCLA xLAB, this engaging lecture series explores five key concepts integral to Japanese architecture.
The December 10 session will delve into the theme of KANE: The Canon of Japanese Architecture. The concept of KANE reflects a harmonious framework of norms and measurements, shaping the distinctive aesthetic order of Japanese design.
Takaharu and Yui Tezuka will share their insights into how this modular system influences their architectural philosophy and practice.
About the Speakers
Takaharu and Yui Tezuka are the founders of Tezuka Architects, established in 1994, and renowned for their innovative and child-centered architectural designs. Their iconic Fuji Kindergarten, recognized as the “best school in the world” by OECD and UNESCO, exemplifies their commitment to creating inspiring spaces for children.
The Tezukas are celebrated globally, receiving prestigious honors such as the UNESCO Global Award for Sustainable Architecture, the Architectural Institution of Japan Prize, and the Japan Institute of Architects Prize. Takaharu’s TED Talk was among the most viewed worldwide in 2015, and Yui has contributed significantly to establishing design codes for kindergartens in Japan.
Their theories on creating optimal environments for children are featured in the "Yellowbook" from Harvard University.
Dr. Don Choi is a professor of architecture at Cal Poly in San Luis Obispo, where he specializes in the history of modern architecture. In particular, he researches Japan since the 1800s, examining the development of its distinct architectural culture.
While working on his Ph.D. at UC Berkeley, he studied under Dr. Hiroshi Adachi at Kobe University and Dr. Terunobu Fujimori at Tokyo University.
At Cal Poly, in addition to teaching classes in history and design, he originated a quarter-long study abroad program in Japan for architecture students.
About the Series
The Japanese Architects Talk Series examines five distinctive dimensions of Japanese architecture: MA, KANE, HAI/KYO, IN/EI, and SUKI. Esteemed architects and scholars discuss these concepts, their cultural significance, and their practical applications in contemporary design.
This series offers a rare opportunity to explore Japanese architectural heritage through the lens of modern practice.
