Jian Wai Soho , Beijing
By reconsidering boundary as a space , he activates the threshold between public and private lives , achieving social value with every project , as each abounds with places for engagement and chance encounters . Small- and large-scale built works alike demonstrate masterly qualities of the spaces themselves , providing focus on the life that each one frames . Transparency is utilised so that those from within may experience the environment that lies beyond , while those passing by may feel a sense of belonging . He offers a consistent continuity of landscape , designing in discourse to the pre-existing natural and building environments to contextualise the experience of each building .
Tianjin Library , Nan Kai Qu , China
Hotakubo Housing , Kumamoto Prefecture , Japan
“ Yamamoto develops a new architectural language that doesn ’ t merely create spaces for families to live , but creates communities for families to live together ,” says Tom Pritzker , Chair of the Hyatt Foundation , which sponsors the award . “ His works are always connected to society , cultivating a generosity in spirit and honouring the human moment .”
His career has spanned five decades and his projects , ranging from private residences to public housing , elementary schools to university buildings , institutions to civic spaces , and city planning , are located throughout Japan , People ’ s Republic of China , Republic of Korea and Switzerland . www . pritzkerprize . com
Hiroshima Nishi Fire Station , Hiroshima , Japan
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