Ando. Complete Works 1975-Today. 2023 Edition

Tadao Ando is a renowned architect who has won four prestigious prizes, including the Pritzker, Carlsberg, Praemium Imperiale, and Kyoto Prize. His designs are known for their unique aesthetic, combining concrete, wood, water, light, and space in abstract forms. This updated edition showcases his entire career, including new projects such as the Bourse de Commerce in Paris and the Nakanoshima Children's Book Forest in Osaka.

Format: Hardback
Length: 740 pages
Publication date: 15 August 2023
Publisher: Taschen GmbH

Tadao Ando, a visionary architect, stands apart as the sole recipient of the prestigious Pritzker, Carlsberg, Praemium Imperiale, and Kyoto Prizes, the four most esteemed awards in the field. Renowned designer Philippe Starck describes him as a "mystic in a country that is no longer mystic." Philip Drew affectionately refers to his buildings as "land art," as they "struggle to emerge from the earth." Ando's designs are often likened to haiku, crafted from the elements of concrete, water, light, and space. However, for him, true architecture transcends metaphysics and beauty, manifesting in the spatial embodiment of physical wisdom.

This extensively revised edition encompasses the entirety of Ando's remarkable career, showcasing notable new projects such as the Bourse de Commerce in Paris and the Nakanoshima Children's Book Forest in Osaka. Through a combination of photographs and architectural drawings, this edition delves into Ando's exceptional use of concrete, wood, water, light, space, and natural forms. Presenting designs from award-winning private homes, churches, museums, and apartment complexes across Japan, South Korea, France, Italy, Germany, Mexico, and the USA, this XXL-edition offers a close-up and personal encounter with a Modernist master.

Ando's architectural philosophy revolves around the concept of "voids," which he believes can evoke a sense of spirituality and transcendence. His buildings are characterized by their minimalistic and organic forms, often incorporating natural elements such as stone, wood, and water. Ando's attention to detail and craftsmanship are evident in every aspect of his designs, from the intricate textures and patterns to the precise placement of elements.

One of Ando's most iconic works is the Museum of Contemporary Art in Tokyo, known for its stunning concrete structure and serene garden. The museum's design seamlessly blends with the surrounding environment, creating a harmonious and contemplative space. Another notable project is the Church of the Light in Osaka, which features a minimalist interior and a breathtaking glass facade that allows natural light to flood the space.

Ando's influence extends beyond his architectural achievements. He has been a mentor to many young architects and has played a significant role in shaping the architectural landscape of Japan and beyond. His work has inspired a generation of designers and architects who seek to create spaces that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

In conclusion, Tadao Ando is a visionary architect whose unique aesthetic has left an indelible mark on the world of architecture. His profound understanding of the interplay between space, light, and nature has resulted in buildings that are both visually stunning and spiritually enriching. Through his meticulous attention to detail and commitment to the principles of minimalism and organic design, Ando has demonstrated that true architecture is not merely about creating beautiful structures but about creating spaces that resonate with the human spirit.

Weight: 7147g
Dimension: 390 x 308 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783836589567
Edition number: Multilingual ed