The influence of traditional Japanese timber design and construction techniques on contemporary architecture and its relevance to modern timber construction

Georgios Anagnostou - 2017

The premise of this report is to connect the dots between contemporary timber architecture, current high-tech timber engineering and how traditional Japanese craftsmanship could be relevant to the development either.

It starts with a brief exploration of the rich history of traditional Japanese timber design and construction techniques and how these are deeply rooted in Japans cultural heritage and connection with its forests. An overview of traditional arts and craftsmanship and a summary of traditional design principles will form the basis of our understanding of the country’s modern timber architecture and its influence internationally. But it is not only architectural design that has been influenced by traditional values and design aesthetics. It is also construction technologies and product design that has been informed by traditional techniques.

The report will outline some specific areas of relevance and where certain traditional concepts have already found their modern application.

Finally, a number of case studies will provide references and examples of adapted design and construction principles.

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