Yokai Hall
Traditional Performing Arts Information Center
Project Overview
This project takes inspiration from the Cubism approach to form and space by renowned architect Le Corbusier. Situated in the district of Chiyoda in Tokyo, the "Traditional Performing Arts Information Center" not only serves as a building but as a nexus between the past and present, the static and the dynamic.
Drawing inspiration from Japan's traditional performing arts, particularly the mystical 'Yokai', the project transforms cultural symbols into unique spatial experiences, reflecting respect for Japanese traditional culture while incorporating modern architectural language.
Creative Process & Site Analysis
I began by exploring the intriguing aspects of Japan's traditional performing arts, particularly the mystical 'Yokai.' Using hands-on collage techniques, I transformed these elements into distinct symbols, setting the stage for an art form deeply connected to cultural shapes and motifs.
The Traditional Arts Information Center is located on the opposite side of the National Theater from the Uchibori-dori, where the main entrance of the National Theater is situated. It's on the National Theater-dori side. When you proceed on the National Theater-dori from Hanzomon, you'll find a slope designed to avoid steps. By going up this slope, you enter the premises of the National Theater.
Spatial Composition
The building consists of multiple functional areas, including the Main Exhibition Hall, Equipment room, Circulation tube, Secondary Exhibition Hall, Restroom, External Entrance, Archive Room, and Multimedia Hall. From these two-dimensional designs, my personal insights and reflections helped morph these concepts into three-dimensional forms, merging traditional narratives with spatial dynamics.
Form Inspiration & Materials
Inspired by Japan's traditional arts and the tales of 'Yokai', this space melds simple shapes with modern design. The central circulation shaft takes the form of a Reuleaux triangle, a unique shape that complements the overlapping structures, showcasing the transformation of flat designs into a vibrant three-dimensional space. Natural light filters in, casting gentle shadows and crafting a serene, welcoming ambiance.
Exterior materials include brushed aluminum panels, with light steel for the structure truss. Interior materials feature wood grain aluminum panels, while wall materials consist of cement fiberboard, white emulsion paint, and light steel structure.
Le Corbusier's Influence
Based on Cubism, Le Corbusier pioneered the Pure Modernism movement. He believed in the deconstruction and abstraction of natural elements, asserting that everything in the world can be abstracted into regular, orderly patterns. This perspective deeply influenced his architectural characteristics, integrating form into space, especially by introducing natural light to craft the aesthetic beauty within his designs.
Structure and Texture
Intuitively, people find it hard to perceive a building as beautiful if its structure seems illogical, regardless of how much it's embellished. It would still feel like a castle in the air. Structures can be likened to the human skeleton, where the depth and dimension of a face depend on the shape of the skull. The same principle applies to architecture. Therefore, in my quest for form and aesthetics, I delved deep into the outer shell's design. I employed brushed aluminum panels for the facade, creating a coherent structural framework, while the interior features wood-grain metal panels, evoking a sense of transparency and tranquility.
Reflections on Spatial Form
This subject lead to questions on spatial form: What defines a logical space? What shapes possess aesthetic appeal? How can one strike a harmonious balance between the beauty of form and the practicality of space?
After numerous attempts to experiment with various forms, I found it challenging to precisely convey the spatial experience I envisioned. It was at this moment I realized that for an aesthetic form to effectively blend into a tangible space, a sound structural foundation is paramount.
