Capturing Tadao Ando's Architecture

On my last trip to Japan I spent quite a lot of time visiting a number of buildings designed by talented Japanese architect Tadao Ando. I visited 5 locations in total, but since I was based in the Kansai region, and most of his buildings are situated in this area as he is originally from Kobe, it made it easy for me to explore and get around to visit these pieces of architecture.

I'm in the process of writing a book so some of the pictures will be used for this project. Even if I wasn't undertaking this I have always been fascinated with Tadao Ando's work. The clean lines, texture of the concrete, and the contrast between the environment and his architecture. I also think there's something attractive about the simplicity and stripped back nature of his work, there is a purity of sorts. Everything is base level but still very detailed and considered. It's amazing to think his limited use of material is what actually elevates his work and his given him a style that will certainly transcend time.

On another note, there are rare occasions when exploring a piece of architecture is a spiritual experience. It's not just the aesthetic, it could be how the different areas connect or how the shadows fall on the architecture and the echoes reverberate around the room. Tadao Ando is certainly a master at creating angular forms that cast beautiful shadows, so for this reason I wanted to highlight some imagery of my favourite details that sparked my imagination. Angles and shadows captured by me in Japan. Enjoy.