Cat’s Eye View of Japanese Architecture vol.1
Architects often visualize objects through a “bird’s eye view”. But at PED, we try to use a “cat’s eye view”, instead. Why? A view through “bird’s eye” is an image of space that you would never actually see as a human being. It would make you understand the total form of architecture, but if you never see it once built, what […]
Essences of Japanese Architecture in Connecticut?
In visiting the Grace Farms in New Canaan,Connecticut, if you are expecting a typical American farm, such as the ones you see in the “Little House on the Prairie” (; I love that old TV series), then you might be dissapointed. But if you admire a life in the nature, like the one used to be seen in American […]
Map from 1886 Showing the Original Kyoto Station
This interesting map was published in Kyoto in 1886. I encounterd it in doing a reasearch for my seminar. It is only about 20 years after the Meiji Restration, yet to my surprise, the map carries an image of original Kyoto station. It is an one-story building at the photo’s center that almost looks like a barn. Can you find […]
Bright Color and Japanese Architecture
Very intriguing contrast of colors between bright Lamborghini and a temple in Kyoto. This looks unusual, but I was not surprised. Traditional Japanese architecture, in fact, often creates an excellent background for objects in bright color. Think about a lady in bright kimono in Kyoto! The architecture’s colors are subdued. But they have natural rich […]
Rain Chain – Supreme Alternative to Downspouts
Architects and home owners often detest downspouts; they are too functinal and ugly. I agree and usually place them inconspicuous locations. But I also know that there is a much better alternative: a rain chain. Rain chains are decorative chains installed at the nose of roofs or eaves in Japanese traditional architecture. Through them, rainwater tricles down gracefully. […]
