In May, for the ninth time, a Japanese architect won the prestigious Pritzker Architecture Prize. See also the article in this Archicomm on page 10. This prize, also known as the Nobel Prize for Architecture, has been awarded annually since 1979 to living architects who have made a significant global contribution to architecture. Unlike Japan, the Netherlands has produced only one winner to date: Rem Koolhaas in 2000. Japan's 9-1 lead therefore begs the question: what can Dutch architects learn from their Japanese colleagues? After all, don't we Dutch, also like to win awards?
Japanese architecture is characterized by a deep connection to nature and a strong emphasis on minimalism and functionality. In fact, Japanese culture places a high value on simplicity and harmony, which you see reflected in architectural designs. Anyone who has been to Japan sees these aspects almost everywhere. This approach is rooted in traditional philosophies such as Zen Buddhism, which emphasizes tranquility, balance and sobriety. Japanese architects such as Tadao Ando and Shigeru Ban have put these principles forward in their work, often using natural materials and light to create serene and functional spaces.
Another feature of Japanese architecture is the flexibility and adaptability of spaces. Traditional Japanese houses are often modular, with sliding doors (fusumas) that can separate or connect spaces depending on the needs of the occupants. This concept of adaptable spaces is also used in modern buildings, providing a high degree of functionality and efficiency.
Dutch architecture, on the other hand, is characterized by innovation, pragmatism and a strong emphasis on sustainability. Dutch architects have therefore gained a reputation in recent decades for their bold and progressive designs, often with a focus on repurposing old buildings and creating sustainable cities. The work of architects such as Rem Koolhaas, for example, attests to this creative and innovative approach.
Dutch architects are - in international opinion - masters at dealing with challenges such as limited space and high population density. So this approach, compared to Japanese perspectives, is much more focused on pragmatic solution thinking. We ourselves would define that as "just common sense.
Yet there is much to learn (for us) from the Japanese approach to architecture. The emphasis on simplicity, natural materials and the integration of nature can inspire Dutch architects to find new ways to bring tranquility and harmony to urban environments. This is certainly not a luxury in today's zeitgeist! We could actually use a little more de-stressing in our society! You see it already ín homes, for example, where personalizing design has taken off and even the bathroom is seen as a place for Mindfulness.
The flexibility and adaptability of Japanese designs -- especially for the interior --
can also provide valuable insights for creating more multifunctional and space-efficient buildings in the Netherlands. This trend has been visible in recent years anyway. Once again, we mention Rem Koolhaas with his "De Rotterdam.
Yet it must be recognized that the cultural differences between the Netherlands and Japan mean that not all aspects and concepts of Japanese architecture can simply be adopted. After all, Dutch society has its own unique needs and challenges. The only question is how we - with our proven pragmatism - get a little more in the picture with the judges of the annual Pritzker Architecture Prize. After all, it is high time for a successor to the only Dutch winner we have had so far! Should we all design something more 'Japanese'?
(Sources: 1. [Pritzker Architecture Prize Laureates](https://www.pritzkerprize.com/laureates) 2. Bognar, B. (1990). *Contemporary Japanese Architecture: Its Development and Challenge*. From Nostrand Reinhold. 3. Koh, J. (2021). *The Influence of Zen on Japanese Architecture*. Architectural Digest).