Sketchbook
By Sou Fujimoto

The works of Sou Fujimoto resist any form of conventional categorization. This young Japanese architect stands for unconventional buildings that cannot be described by standard criteria and definitions such as inside/outside or public/private.

Clear divisions such as between floor levels and rooms are shattered by his complex ground plans and interlocking structures which, in a reference to the idea of the cave, he describes as “primitive future.” With this approach he creates forms that are committed to a playful interaction between user and space.

From the infinite dialogues of the brain, eyes, hand, paper, and space, new architecture is born./Sou Fujimoto

Sketch courtesy Lars Müller Publishers

Sketch courtesy Lars Müller Publishers

Sketch courtesy Lars Müller Publishers

Sketch courtesy Lars Müller Publishers

Sketch courtesy Lars Müller Publishers

The lines are never certain, never knowing where the next will lead to. never knowing, but continuing to draw. and for this very reason, there is always an opportunity for something new./Sou Fujimoto

Alongside private residences, such as the well-known N House, his library for Musashino Art University has achieved particular recognition. In addition he was represented at the 2010 Venice Biennale with a design for a house.

Photo: Iwan Baan
N House
Oita, Japan

Photo: Iwan Baan
Musashino Art University
Tokyo, Japan

In this personal sketchbook, Sou Fujimoto offers insights into his design process. Through the sketches, drawings, and notes readers can trace how his complex concepts are made manifest and develop on paper.