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Kengo Kuma
and
Yusuke Obuchi
This is the fourth course in the “Four Facets of Contemporary Japanese Architecture” series, which focuses on the fourth facet: humans.
Economic miracle, environmental problems, bubble economy and its collapse, information technology and globalization, earthquakes, population decline, pandemic... The nearly 60 years between the two Tokyo Olympics, 1964 and 2021, was a turbulent time for humans in Japan. During this period, how has architecture changed? And what happened to humans that architecture was supposed to have supported?
Read more
This is the fourth course in the “Four Facets of Contemporary Japanese Architecture” series, which focuses on the fourth facet: humans.
Economic miracle, environmental problems, bubble economy and its collapse, information technology and globalization, earthquakes, population decline, pandemic... The nearly 60 years between the two Tokyo Olympics, 1964 and 2021, was a turbulent time for humans in Japan. During this period, how has architecture changed? And what happened to humans that architecture was supposed to have supported?
Read more
This is the fourth course in the “Four Facets of Contemporary Japanese Architecture” series, which focuses on the fourth facet: humans.
Economic miracle, environmental problems, bubble economy and its collapse, information technology and globalization, earthquakes, population decline, pandemic... The nearly 60 years between the two Tokyo Olympics, 1964 and 2021, was a turbulent time for humans in Japan. During this period, how has architecture changed? And what happened to humans that architecture was supposed to have supported?
This course on “Humans” will review the works of those architects who have attempted to conceptualize humans through their architecture and examine the changes over the last half century as well as the issues for the future. Hiroshi Hara, Toyo Ito, Osamu Ishiyama, Kengo Kuma, Satoko Shinohara, and Sou Fujimoto visit their buildings to discuss the ideas behind their respective works.
What you'll learn
- Development of contemporary Japanese architecture since the 1964 Tokyo Olympics
- Features of works of influential Japanese architects
- Unique technologies used for contemporary Japanese architecture
- Present concerns and potential future directions for contemporary Japanese architecture
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/udicc5/four
What's inside
Learning objectives
- Development of contemporary japanese architecture since the 1964 tokyo olympics
- Features of works of influential japanese architects
- Unique technologies used for contemporary japanese architecture
- Present concerns and potential future directions for contemporary japanese architecture
- Development of contemporary japanese architecture since the 1964 tokyo olympics
- Features of works of influential japanese architects
- Unique technologies used for contemporary japanese architecture
- Present concerns and potential future directions for contemporary japanese architecture
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Provides a comprehensive historical overview of contemporary Japanese architecture, highlighting both its development and influences
Features prominent architects whose works have shaped the landscape of Japanese architecture, offering insights into their unique approaches and design philosophies
Examines the evolution of architectural techniques and technologies employed in Japan, showcasing innovative and sustainable practices
Highlights current challenges and future prospects for Japanese architecture, fostering critical thinking about its role in addressing societal needs
Led by renowned architect Kengo Kuma, providing access to expert knowledge and insights from a leading practitioner in the field
Requires familiarity with architectural concepts and terminology, making it suitable for individuals with a background in architecture or related disciplines
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Reviews summary
Contemporary japanese architecture and human impact
According to learners, this course offers an excellent and unique deep dive into contemporary Japanese architecture, particularly focusing on its relationship with humans and societal changes. Students particularly praise the direct insights from influential architects through compelling interviews. While the content is described as academically rigorous and sometimes dense or abstract, making it potentially challenging for absolute beginners, those with a foundational interest in architecture or Japanese culture find it highly engaging and thought-provoking. The course is noted for its historical context from the 1964 to 2021 Tokyo Olympics.
Instructor provides clear, insightful guidance.
"The professor is very knowledgeable and passionate, making the lectures engaging despite the complex subject matter."
"I found the instructor's delivery to be clear and articulate, guiding us through intricate architectural concepts effectively."
"The quality of instruction is consistently high, which greatly aids in understanding the course material."
Offers comprehensive, academically rigorous material.
"The lectures are very informative and well-researched, providing a solid understanding of the topic."
"I found the course to be very deep and insightful, perfect for someone looking for a serious academic engagement."
"It's a comprehensive overview, going beyond just the buildings to explore the underlying philosophies."
Explores architecture through a human-centric lens.
"The focus on 'humans' as a facet of architecture is incredibly unique and gives a fresh perspective."
"I appreciated the profound approach to how architecture impacts and is shaped by human experiences."
"This course provided a truly thought-provoking exploration of architecture's connection to society and people."
Gain direct wisdom from leading Japanese architects.
"The talks with the architects themselves are invaluable. Their insights truly bring the concepts to life."
"It's fascinating to hear directly from the architects about their ideas and the stories behind their works."
"I enjoyed listening to the interviews and the thought process that goes into designing architecture."
Discussions can be abstract; some wish for more visual aids.
"While the discussions were intellectual, I sometimes wished for more concrete visual examples to accompany the abstract theories."
"Some parts felt a bit too theoretical and could have benefited from more diagrams or architectural plans to illustrate points."
"I found myself re-watching sections due to the density of information and the conceptual nature of the content."
Better suited for those with some prior architectural background.
"Some concepts were quite advanced, and I felt I needed a stronger background in architecture to fully grasp everything."
"While interesting, it's definitely not for beginners. A basic understanding of architectural terms is very helpful."
"I struggled with some of the more abstract ideas, which seemed to assume prior familiarity with the field."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Four Facets of Contemporary Japanese Architecture: Humans with these
activities:
Course Resource Compilation
Show steps
Helps students stay organized and engage with course materials.
Show steps
-
Create a digital or physical folder for course materials
-
Organize materials by topic or module
Review Japanese Architecture History
Show steps
Reviews basic concepts and principles of Japanese architecture before taking this course.
Browse courses on
Architecture
Show steps
-
Read architectural history textbooks
-
Review academic papers covering Japanese architectural history
-
Visit local architectural historical sites relevant to the course
Review 'The Japanese House' by Arata Isozaki
Show steps
Introduces students to key concepts of Japanese architecture.
View
The Contemporary Tea House: Japan's Top...
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read the book 'The Japanese House'
-
Summarize the book's main arguments and insights
Seven other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all ten activities
Analyze architectural plans
Show steps
Analyzing architectural plans will help you develop a deeper understanding of the technical aspects of contemporary Japanese architecture.
Browse courses on
Architectural Design
Show steps
-
Find architectural plans online or in a library.
-
Study the plans carefully and identify the different elements and spaces.
-
Sketch out your own architectural plans based on what you have learned.
Architecture Photo Journal
Show steps
Encourages students to experience contemporary Japanese architecture in person.
Show steps
-
Take photos of various contemporary Japanese architecture
-
Write short descriptions of architectural features, design, and context
-
Compile photos and descriptions into a photo journal
Tokyo Architectural Tour
Show steps
Provides an immersive experience of contemporary Japanese architecture in Tokyo.
Show steps
-
Research Tokyo's architectural scene and identify significant buildings
-
Book guided tours with architects or architectural historians
-
Participate in tours and observe architectural details
Design a contemporary Japanese building
Show steps
Designing a contemporary Japanese building will help you apply your knowledge of the subject and develop your creativity.
Browse courses on
Architectural Design
Show steps
-
Choose a specific type of building to design, such as a house, a museum, or a school.
-
Research the latest trends in contemporary Japanese architecture.
-
Sketch out your design ideas and create a scale model.
-
Present your design to a group of peers for feedback.
Architecture Presentation and Discussion
Show steps
Allows students to present their understanding of Japanese architecture and engage in discussions.
Browse courses on
Japanese Architecture
Show steps
-
Research a specific Japanese architect or architectural style
-
Prepare a presentation on the chosen topic
-
Present to peers and participate in discussions
Design a Contemporary Japanese House
Show steps
Encourages students to apply their understanding of Japanese architecture to design.
Browse courses on
Architecture Design
Show steps
-
Research different types of traditional and contemporary Japanese houses
-
Develop design concepts and sketches
-
Create digital or physical models
Participate in Architectural Preservation Project
Show steps
Provides practical experience in preserving and understanding Japanese architecture.
Show steps
-
Identify local historical societies or preservation organizations
-
Volunteer to assist in architectural restoration or preservation projects
-
Learn about traditional construction techniques and materials
Course Resource Compilation
Show steps
Helps students stay organized and engage with course materials.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Create a digital or physical folder for course materials
- Organize materials by topic or module
Review Japanese Architecture History
Show steps
Reviews basic concepts and principles of Japanese architecture before taking this course.
Browse courses on
Architecture
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read architectural history textbooks
- Review academic papers covering Japanese architectural history
- Visit local architectural historical sites relevant to the course
Review 'The Japanese House' by Arata Isozaki
Show steps
Introduces students to key concepts of Japanese architecture.
View
The Contemporary Tea House: Japan's Top...
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read the book 'The Japanese House'
- Summarize the book's main arguments and insights
Seven other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all ten activities
Analyze architectural plans
Show steps
Analyzing architectural plans will help you develop a deeper understanding of the technical aspects of contemporary Japanese architecture.
Browse courses on
Architectural Design
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find architectural plans online or in a library.
- Study the plans carefully and identify the different elements and spaces.
- Sketch out your own architectural plans based on what you have learned.
Architecture Photo Journal
Show steps
Encourages students to experience contemporary Japanese architecture in person.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Take photos of various contemporary Japanese architecture
- Write short descriptions of architectural features, design, and context
- Compile photos and descriptions into a photo journal
Tokyo Architectural Tour
Show steps
Provides an immersive experience of contemporary Japanese architecture in Tokyo.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research Tokyo's architectural scene and identify significant buildings
- Book guided tours with architects or architectural historians
- Participate in tours and observe architectural details
Design a contemporary Japanese building
Show steps
Designing a contemporary Japanese building will help you apply your knowledge of the subject and develop your creativity.
Browse courses on
Architectural Design
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a specific type of building to design, such as a house, a museum, or a school.
- Research the latest trends in contemporary Japanese architecture.
- Sketch out your design ideas and create a scale model.
- Present your design to a group of peers for feedback.
Architecture Presentation and Discussion
Show steps
Allows students to present their understanding of Japanese architecture and engage in discussions.
Browse courses on
Japanese Architecture
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research a specific Japanese architect or architectural style
- Prepare a presentation on the chosen topic
- Present to peers and participate in discussions
Design a Contemporary Japanese House
Show steps
Encourages students to apply their understanding of Japanese architecture to design.
Browse courses on
Architecture Design
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research different types of traditional and contemporary Japanese houses
- Develop design concepts and sketches
- Create digital or physical models
Participate in Architectural Preservation Project
Show steps
Provides practical experience in preserving and understanding Japanese architecture.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify local historical societies or preservation organizations
- Volunteer to assist in architectural restoration or preservation projects
- Learn about traditional construction techniques and materials
Career center
Learners who complete Four Facets of Contemporary Japanese Architecture: Humans will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Architect
Architect
Architects design and create buildings, taking into account the needs of the people who will use them. This course would be particularly helpful for architects who want to specialize in contemporary Japanese architecture. The course covers the development of contemporary Japanese architecture since the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, as well as the features of works by influential Japanese architects. This knowledge would be invaluable for architects who want to design buildings that are both beautiful and functional.
Architectural Historian
Architectural Historian
Architectural historians research and write about the history of architecture. This course would be helpful for architectural historians who want to specialize in contemporary Japanese architecture. The course covers the development of contemporary Japanese architecture since the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, as well as the features of works by influential Japanese architects. This knowledge would help architectural historians to understand the context of contemporary Japanese architecture and to write more informed and insightful articles and books.
Architectural Critic
Architectural Critic
Architectural critics write about architecture for magazines, newspapers, and websites. This course would be helpful for architectural critics who want to specialize in contemporary Japanese architecture. The course covers the development of contemporary Japanese architecture since the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, as well as the features of works by influential Japanese architects. This knowledge would help architectural critics to understand the context of contemporary Japanese architecture and to write more informed and insightful reviews.
Urban Planner
Urban Planner
Urban planners design and plan cities and towns. This course would be helpful for urban planners who want to specialize in contemporary Japanese architecture. The course covers the development of contemporary Japanese architecture since the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, as well as the features of works by influential Japanese architects. This knowledge would help urban planners to understand the context of contemporary Japanese architecture and to design cities and towns that are both beautiful and functional.
Landscape Architect
Landscape Architect
Landscape architects design and create outdoor spaces, such as parks, gardens, and plazas. This course would be helpful for landscape architects who want to specialize in contemporary Japanese architecture. The course covers the development of contemporary Japanese architecture since the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, as well as the features of works by influential Japanese architects. This knowledge would help landscape architects to understand the context of contemporary Japanese architecture and to design outdoor spaces that are both beautiful and functional.
Interior designer
Interior designer
Interior designers design and create the interiors of buildings. This course would be helpful for interior designers who want to specialize in contemporary Japanese architecture. The course covers the development of contemporary Japanese architecture since the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, as well as the features of works by influential Japanese architects. This knowledge would help interior designers to understand the context of contemporary Japanese architecture and to design interiors that are both beautiful and functional.
Construction Manager
Construction Manager
Construction managers oversee the construction of buildings and other structures. This course would be helpful for construction managers who want to specialize in contemporary Japanese architecture. The course covers the development of contemporary Japanese architecture since the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, as well as the features of works by influential Japanese architects. This knowledge would help construction managers to understand the context of contemporary Japanese architecture and to oversee the construction of buildings that are both beautiful and functional.
Real Estate Developer
Real Estate Developer
Real estate developers acquire and develop land for residential, commercial, and industrial purposes. This course would be helpful for real estate developers who want to specialize in contemporary Japanese architecture. The course covers the development of contemporary Japanese architecture since the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, as well as the features of works by influential Japanese architects. This knowledge would help real estate developers to understand the context of contemporary Japanese architecture and to develop projects that are both profitable and aesthetically pleasing.
Professor of Architecture
Professor of Architecture
Professors of architecture teach and research architecture at universities and colleges. This course would be helpful for professors of architecture who want to specialize in contemporary Japanese architecture. The course covers the development of contemporary Japanese architecture since the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, as well as the features of works by influential Japanese architects. This knowledge would help professors of architecture to understand the context of contemporary Japanese architecture and to teach their students about this important topic.
Architecture Librarian
Architecture Librarian
Architecture librarians manage and maintain collections of books, journals, and other resources related to architecture. This course would be helpful for architecture librarians who want to specialize in contemporary Japanese architecture. The course covers the development of contemporary Japanese architecture since the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, as well as the features of works by influential Japanese architects. This knowledge would help architecture librarians to build and maintain collections that are relevant to the needs of their users.
Museum curator
Museum curator
Museum curators oversee the collections of museums and art galleries. This course would be helpful for museum curators who want to specialize in contemporary Japanese architecture. The course covers the development of contemporary Japanese architecture since the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, as well as the features of works by influential Japanese architects. This knowledge would help museum curators to develop and curate exhibitions on contemporary Japanese architecture.
Art historian
Art historian
Art historians research and write about the history of art. This course would be helpful for art historians who want to specialize in contemporary Japanese architecture. The course covers the development of contemporary Japanese architecture since the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, as well as the features of works by influential Japanese architects. This knowledge would help art historians to understand the context of contemporary Japanese architecture and to write more informed and insightful articles and books.
Journalist
Journalist
Journalists write and report on news and current events. This course would be helpful for journalists who want to specialize in contemporary Japanese architecture. The course covers the development of contemporary Japanese architecture since the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, as well as the features of works by influential Japanese architects. This knowledge would help journalists to understand the context of contemporary Japanese architecture and to write more informed and insightful articles.
Photographer
Photographer
Photographers take pictures of people, places, and things. This course would be helpful for photographers who want to specialize in contemporary Japanese architecture. The course covers the development of contemporary Japanese architecture since the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, as well as the features of works by influential Japanese architects. This knowledge would help photographers to understand the context of contemporary Japanese architecture and to take more informed and insightful photographs.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/udicc5/four
Reading list
We've selected seven books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Four Facets of Contemporary Japanese Architecture: Humans.
Presents a collection of essays on contemporary Japanese architecture, written by leading architects, critics, and historians. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the development of contemporary Japanese architecture.
Presents a comprehensive overview of the work of Osamu Ishiyama, one of the most influential Japanese architects of his generation. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the development of contemporary Japanese architecture.
Presents the works of Hiroshi Hara, one of the architects featured in the syllabus.
Features the works of Kengo Kuma, one of the course instructors.
Save
Examines Japanese architecture throughout history, offering a broader context for the course's focus on contemporary trends.
Offers a critical analysis of contemporary Japanese architecture, providing additional insights into the course's topics.
Save
Presents a comprehensive overview of Japanese architecture, serving as a reference guide for the course's content.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/udicc5/four
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Rating
5.0
Effort
1 to 2 hours per week for 7 weeks
Level
Introductory
Via
edX
Institution
The University of Tokyo
Instructors
Kengo Kuma
Yusuke Obuchi
Language
English
Transcript
English
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