The IFI PRIZE, an award presented to individuals or organizations that have made exceptional international contributions, was awarded to architect Kengo Kuma at the IFI Global Awards Program (IFI GAP), organized by the International Federation of Interior Architects/Designers (IFI), a global organization based in New York, USA, of which the Japan Institute of Design Promotion is a member.

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Biography:

Kengo Kuma was born in 1954. He established Kengo Kuma & Associates in 1990. He is currently a University Professor and Professor Emeritus at the University of Tokyo after teaching at Keio University and the University of Tokyo. KKAA projects are currently underway in more than 50 countries. Kengo Kuma proposes architecture that opens up new relationships between nature, technology, and human beings. His major publications include Kengo Kuma Onomatopoeia Architecture Grounding (X-Knowledge), Nihon no Kenchiku (Architecture of Japan, Iwanami Shoten), Zen Shigoto (Kengo Kuma – the complete works, Daiwa Shobo), Ten Sen Men (Point Line Plane, Iwanami Shoten), Makeru Kenchiku (Architecture of Defeat, Iwanami Shoten), Shizen na Kenchiku (Natural Architecture, Iwanami Shinsho), Chii-sana Kenchiku (Small Architecture, Iwanami Shinsho) and many others.

Reason for Kengo Kuma’s Award:

His approach transcends traditional boundaries, harmonizing architectural environments with nature and cultural contexts, while rethinking the role of space in our lives. By delicately incorporating materials such as wood, bamboo, and stone, he creates environments that connect with the natural world. Moreover, he bridges traditional Japanese craftsmanship with contemporary design, creating sustainable and culturally meaningful spaces. His works serve as exemplary models of how architectural environments can balance innovation, sustainability, and cultural depth.

For more details, please visit the press release (available in Japanese only) : 

https://archive.jidp.or.jp/ja/pressrelease/2024/241126jdp.pdf