From August 17 to 26, 2024, the SEKISUI HOUSE – KUMA LAB and the National Technical University of Athens conducted a joint workshop in Japan.
This workshop aimed to mutually learn about traditional architectural techniques from Japan and Greece. Ten participants, including faculty and students from NTUA, joined, along with seven participants from the University of Tokyo.
The group studied temple carpentry techniques at Ikaruga School in Tochigi and Takumi Kodo in Kyoto and delved into the essence of Sukiya architecture at Nakamura Sotoji Komuten in Kyoto.
In Nara, they observed the reconstruction site of the East Pagoda at Heijō Palace by Takenaka Corporation, learning about the restoration process of Nara period architecture.
The group also visited projects in Kyoto guided by architect Shigenori Uotani, learning about the traditional architecture of Kyoto, its urban landscape, and the methods for its preservation.
Additionally, the group toured iconic wooden structures representing various historical periods, such as Katsura Imperial Villa, Tōshōgū Shrine, and Hōryū-ji Temple, to deepen their understanding of the architectural styles and techniques of each era.
Special thanks: Ikarugakousha, Uoya Shigenori, Shokodo, Takenaka corp, Nakamura Sotoji, HOSOO
