JA 114 Summer, 2019: Hiroshi Nakamura & NAP

The 114th issue of JA is the first monograph devoted to Hiroshi Nakamura & NAP and features 31 projects since its founding in 2002. From an early age, Nakamura was impressed with how architecture takes shape by building connections between various elements – local history and tradition, materials and craftsmanship, and human lives and philosophies. This led to a design process that seeks to foster better relationships among people, between people and the local community, and people and nature. He achieves this through an analysis of climate, local industry, and landscape to create designs that connect with the behaviors and emotions of the inhabitants. This results in complex forms as in the housing project Dancing Trees, Singing Birds where existing trees are retained and become part of the design. In the Sayama Lakeside Cemetery project, serene interiors and views of the surrounding landscape create a peaceful location for visitors to remember their loved ones. Text in English and Japanese.