Japanese architectural innovations on display in Kolkata

An exhibition on modern Japanese architecture brings to the city the innovations in reconciling traditional and contemporary designs, experimental building styles and earthquake-resistant structures, a statement said Saturday.

The 'Parallel Nippon: Contemporary Japanese Architecture 1996-2006' exhibit at the Birla Industrial and Technological Museum (BITM) here is showcasing works by Japan's most influential architects such as Toyo Ito, Tadao Ando, Kenzo Tange and SANAA.

Running till Dec 4, it highlights "an accurate picture of Japan's architectural profession which generated new forms of value through fine-tuned designs adapted to the evolving demands during this period (1996-2006)".

During the mid-1990s Japan faced an economic recession which led to an escalation in urban migration, decline of birth rate and rise in aging population transforming the standard family structure.

These factors influenced its architecture.

According to the statement attributed to the Japan Consulate in Kolkata, this period is commonly known as Japan's transition from the "bubble" to "post bubble" period.

"Faced with the rapidly changing landscape, a new generation of architects was forced to re-evaluate their approach to design from an "expanding city" model to a "continuous city" outlook.

"Their quest led to radical results and creative possibilities for the new era and beyond," said the statement.

Japan reportedly has the highest number of architects in the world at 307,558, which works out to 240.4 architects per 100,000.

The event is organised by Consulate General of Japan in Kolkata in collaboration with BITM and Japan Foundation.