Architectural Cases

The "Chair for Kids" initiative represents a remarkable fusion of childhood imagination and practical design, orchestrated by designer Taekhan Yun in collaboration with young learners in Siem Reap, Cambodia. This project goes beyond mere aesthetics, serving as an engaging platform to introduce fundamental design principles while translating the vivid sketches of children into tangible, functional seating. It embodies a holistic approach to creative development, allowing participants to experience the full spectrum of the design process, from initial concept to final product, all while fostering a sense of ownership and accomplishment.

The journey began with an exploration of form and function, as the children were encouraged to draw their ideal stools and chairs. These early artistic expressions formed the foundation for their designs. A crucial next step involved the students actively measuring their own heights and body dimensions. This practical exercise integrated basic ergonomic considerations, ensuring that each chair was tailored to the individual's physical needs and promoting an intuitive understanding of scale and spatial relationships. This personal involvement in the foundational stages instilled a deeper connection to their creations.

Following the initial sketches, accessible and malleable clay was introduced for prototyping. These small-scale models served as vital three-dimensional references, bridging the gap between two-dimensional drawings and the eventual physical furniture. Designer Taekhan Yun then meticulously crafted the final chairs based on these prototypes. The project culminated in a vibrant finishing phase where the children took center stage, applying color to their completed chairs using crayons. This was followed by the application of acrylic lacquer spray and varnish, ensuring durability and a polished appearance. This hands-on coloring activity not only added a personal touch but also reinforced the concept of bringing their artistic visions to life.

The "Chair for Kids" project successfully interwoven design education, practical material experimentation, and collaborative participation. It resulted in a distinctive collection of chairs, each piece a testament to the individual contributions and collective effort. This methodology not only produced unique furniture but also empowered the young participants with valuable creative and practical skills, demonstrating the transformative power of design when approached as a collaborative and educational endeavor.

This inspiring program, conceived and brought to life by Taekhan Yun in the heart of Siem Reap, Cambodia, showcases how innovative educational strategies can merge artistic expression with practical application. It empowered a new generation to see their ideas materialize, instilling confidence and a foundational understanding of design principles through an engaging and memorable experience.

In Fujisawa City, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan, the renowned Schemata Architects, under the leadership of Jo Nagasaka, has completed a remarkable project, transforming the architectural landscape for Uchida Shōten, a hardware manufacturer with a rich 160-year history. The design of their new two-story wooden head office is deeply inspired by the historical urban fabric of the surrounding area, particularly drawing from the distinct townhouse culture that emerged along the old Tōkaidō road, known as Fujisawa-juku during the Edo period. This area was historically characterized by narrow, elongated plots, a feature that profoundly influenced the spatial organization of the new building.

The building's conceptualization stems from the traditional Japanese machiya model, which encompasses characteristic narrow and deep layouts, intricate wooden latticework, and a seamless integration of living and working areas. This architectural approach not only offers a refreshing change from conventional building designs for a company focused on building components but also injects a dynamic cultural presence into Fujisawa's historic Tōkaidō road. Adhering to strict budget limitations and a clear design philosophy, the structure is composed of a series of frames forming a singular, expansive box, prioritizing adaptability and longevity over ornate aesthetics. Its northern facade, featuring awning windows, opens towards the street, allowing natural light and the vibrant street life to permeate the interior, while inviting the building's internal activities to engage with the external environment.

The project\\'s architectural vision is largely shaped by the city's historical memory, particularly the Edo period's frontage taxation, which led to the creation of plots with minimal street width but considerable depth. These plots typically featured retail spaces at the front, residential areas at the back, and additional storage or sleeping quarters on upper floors or behind. Uchida Shōten's previous structures mirrored this layout, with offices or shops facing the street and more private functions tucked away. Although there were initial plans to restore the existing main residence, structural integrity issues and seismic safety concerns led to a shift in focus. Consequently, the new head office was developed first, establishing a modern foundation that continues to animate the site. Schemata Architects skillfully reinterpreted the machiya style to suit modern requirements, maintaining a similar footprint to the former office but reconfiguring its layout to foster public and cultural engagement. The front of the building now hosts an artist-in-residence area, directly interacting with the street, while the offices are situated towards the rear. This frontal zone serves as both the daily entrance and a communal space, and also welcomes external artists, designers, students, and international innovators for creative work and exhibitions. Behind the typically closed exterior, a compact living space, referred to as 'nedoko' (berth), provides essential residential amenities and a spacious loft accessible via a spiral staircase, facilitating temporary stays within the premises.

This project stands as a beacon of architectural innovation, demonstrating how historical typologies can be reinterpreted to meet contemporary needs while enriching the urban fabric. It exemplifies a thoughtful integration of past and present, creating a space that is not only functional but also fosters creativity and community. By blending tradition with modern design principles, Schemata Architects has crafted a building that resonates with cultural significance and forward-thinking functionality, contributing positively to the architectural narrative of Fujisawa.