Riken yamamoto biography

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Born in 1945 in Beijing, China, Yamamoto studied at Nihon University, where he later returned as a professor. Characterized by a profound commitment to community engagement and a keen awareness of local dynamics, the 9th Japanese architect to receive this accolade has an architectural portfolio that exemplifies the transformative power of architecture in society.

His architectural journey began with a focus on urban planning and gradually evolved to incorporate a unique blend of traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern sensibilities. One of his notable works is the Kanagawa Institute of Technology Workshop in Atsugi, Japan, showcases his skill in creating dynamic spaces that foster creativity and collaboration.

Who Is Riken Yamamoto?

riken yamamoto biography

From addressing the needs of the children to the needs of the elderly, Yamamoto's work underscores the profound impact architecture can have on the lives of individuals across all age groups.

2022

Tokyo University of the Arts Visiting Professor

2024

Kanagawa University,Visiting Professor

2024

Yokohama National University,Honorary professor,Honorary doctor

Riken Yamamoto

Born: 1945 | Beijing, China
Practice:
Awards: Architectural Institute of Japan Award, Pritzker Prize (2024), Fukushima Architecture Culture Award
Projects: Rotunda Building, Hamlet Building, Named Techno Core, Ryukoentoshi Apartments, Tianjin Library, Yokosuka Museum of Art

Riken Yamamoto rose to prominence through his innovative designs and deep-rooted philosophies.

Beyond Japan, Yamamoto’s influence extends globally with projects such as the Kowloon East Cultural Centre in Hong Kong. This project demonstrates his ability to adapt his design philosophy to diverse cultural contexts while maintaining a distinct aesthetic identity.

Awards

Pritzker Prize (2024)

Portfolio Highlights

Hotakubo Housing Complex, Hotakubo, Japan (1991)

Saitama Prefectural University, Koshigaya, Japan (1999)

Future University of Hakodate, Hakodate, Japan (2000)

Tianjin Library, Tianjin, China (2005)

Hiroshima Nishi Fire Station, Hiroshima Japan (2000)

Yokosuka Museum of Art, Yokosuka, Japan (2006)

Fussa City Hall, Fussa, Japan (2008)

Circle at Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland (2020)

EXPLORE MORE RIKEN YAMAMOTO PROJECTS >

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16 Things to Know About the 2024 Pritzker Architecture Laureate
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Riken Yamamoto's receipt of the prestigious Pritzker Architecture Prize in 2024 is met with pleasant surprise.

Throughout his career, Yamamoto emphasized the importance of space, light, and the relationship between architecture and its surrounding environment.

Yamamoto’s portfolio boasts an array of iconic projects that reflect his visionary approach to architecture. To provide insight into the architect's educational journey and career trajectory, here are 16 key facts to learn more about the 2024 laureate.

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1968

BA from Department of Architecture, College of Science and Technology, Nihon University

1971

MA from Tokyo University of the Arts, Faculty of Architecture
Hara Laboratory at Institute of Industrial Science,the University of Tokyo as a research Student

1973

Founded Riken Yamamoto & Field Shop Co., Ltd.

2002

Kogakuin University Department of Architecture Professor (-2007)

2007

Yokohama Graduate School of Architecture, Yokohama National University(Y-GSA) Professor　(-2011)

2011

Graduate School of Architecture, Yokohama National University Visiting Professor
Graduate school of Engineering , Nihon University Special-appointment Professor

2018

Nagoya Zokei University of Art & Design President(-2022).