Manifestations of the Japanese Thought in the Architecture of Tadao Ando

Abstract

The architecture of Tadao Ando intensely portrays values derived from his Japanese way of thinking such as sensitivity, deep reflection, spirituality, and respect for nature; his speech is anchored to his origin, combining Japanese philosophy, traditions, and culture. His architecture does not allow a single interpretation, especially because it employs a large number of symbols and, therefore, there are different perspectives from which it can be analyzed. This article describes some of his works and their relationship with essential concepts of Japanese thought; in this way, the hermeneutic approach indicates that the manifestations of substantive elements of his way of thinking are metaphors that lead us to understand our own human condition, where everyday elements such as materials, light, among many others are destined for inducing a deep reflection; consequently, these elements can be considered an instrument to reach spirituality. Not only is it important to know elements of Tadao Ando’s origin to infer the meaning of his work, but it is also fundamental to understand the spirituality of this architect who, by exposing his way of being, enable us to reconfigure the meaning of his work.