Open Architecture for the People

Open Architecture for the People explores Japanese architecture and the three different phases of development between the years 1950 and 2018. Changing ways of life through differing generations have caused fluctuations in the building industry. This book demonstrates how each generation's expectations have resulted in discernible eras in architecture which can be examined collectively as well as in isolation. For example, the sudden increase in productivity from 1950 brought about by the Industrial Revolution flowed to the production of buildings and homes and designs were influenced by modern ideas.With over thirty black and white images to illustrate the changes, Matsumura brings to light architectural developments that have previously been confined to Japanese speaking academics. In doing so, the book broadens the scope for further architectural examinations internationally. It would be ideal for academics, students and professionals within the areas of architecture and urban planning, particularly those with an interest in Japanese architecture.

'Too little attention has been paid in English language publications to contemporary developments in Japanese architecture and built environment, aside from the "starchitects" or the embattled vernacular traditions. Yet inside Japan, a lively discourse is ongoing into much deeper transformations of Japanese architecture. At a time of depopulation and resource limits, coupled with a deep cultural reverence for traditional social structures, Japanese architectural production is subtly but inexorably changing. This book makes a significant contribution to understanding these transformations.' - Stephen Kendall, PhD (MIT’90 – Design Theory and Methods), Emeritus Professor of Architecture, Ball State University, Co-Director, Council on Open Building"In conclusion, the book provides informative reading, especially for people unfamiliar with architectural trends in Japan today." - Yura Kim, Chubu University, Japan (excerpt from Traditional Dwellings and Settlements Review), Too little attention has been paid in English language publications to contemporary developments in Japanese architecture and built environment, aside from the "starchitects" or the embattled vernacular traditions. Yet inside Japan, a lively discourse is ongoing into much deeper transformations of Japanese architecture. At a time of depopulation and resource limits, coupled with a deep cultural reverence for traditional social structures, Japanese architectural production is subtly but inexorably changing. This book makes a significant contribution to understanding these transformations. Stephen Kendall, PhD (MIT’90 – Design Theory and Methods), Emeritus Professor of Architecture, Ball State University, Co-Director, Council on Open Building

Shuichi Matsumura is a project professor in the Department of Architecture, at the University of Tokyo.