Takasaki Masaharu: An Architecture of Cosmology

Bognar, Botund (Introduction)

ISBN 10: 156898121X / ISBN 13: 9781568981215

Published by Princeton Architectural Press, 1998

About this Item

Light wear to covers. Spine not creased. Eraser rubbing to top corner of half-title page. The cover has separated from the first page where the adhesive has failed but it is still firmly attached to the spine. Just a minor cosmetic issue. 160pp Size: 200mm x 270mm.

Seller Inventory # 029806

Bibliographic Details

• Title: Takasaki Masaharu: An Architecture of Cosmology
• Publisher: Princeton Architectural Press
• Publication Date: 1998
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 156898121X
• ISBN 13: 9781568981215
• Binding: Soft cover
• Edition: 1st Edition.
• Condition: Good
• Dust Jacket Condition: No Jacket as Issued
• Book Type: Book

About this title

Synopsis

This study features the work of Tokyo-based architect Takasaki Masaharu, known for his innovative design projects. Since the 1970s he has been creating unusual structures throughout Japan. He has recently received an award from the Japan Institute of Architects as the most outstanding young architect in the country. Takasaki's designs combine the organic and the mythological. He describes his architecture as an "environmental being" which connects humanity with the cosmos. This philosophy manifests itself in his use of egg-shaped forms, diffused light to create mystical interiors, and skewed columns and planes. The monograph explores eight of his projects, including Crystal Light in Tokyo, Tamana City Observatory Museum in Kumamoto, Earth Architecture in Kagoshima, and Kihoko-cho Astronomical Museum in Kagoshima. Each building is thoroughly described through text, photographs and drawings. Also included is an illustrated list of the architect's projects, and a critical text by Botund Bognar.

Review

Experiencing the magical world of Takasaki's architecture evokes the awe that one feels when looking at images taken by the Hubbell Telescope...it is the experience of coming face to face with the infinity and timelessness of the cosmos, the inexplicable and the unexplainable, that is, the dimensions of the unknown and the unknowable. Botond Bognar, from his introduction to "Takasaki Masaharu: An Architecture of Cosmology" Above all, Takasaki's buildings are orchestrated by a gutsy exuberance that celebrates humanity in all its messy complexity and diversity.... In the reductivist world of mass housing [his work] stands as an illuuminating example of the fecund, transforming power of architecural imagination. Phoebe Chow, "Architectural Digest"