The Japanese Pavilion at the 1937 Paris Exposition garnered a Grand Prix, establishing its designer as a significant force in global modernism. Junzo Sakakura, born in Takegahana in 1901, transitioned from an early academic background in art history to become a central figure in Japanese architecture throughout the mid-twentieth century.
Formative Training in Paris
After graduating from Tokyo Imperial University in 1927, Sakakura moved to France in 1930 to apprentice at Le Corbusier’s atelier. During a seven-year tenure, he progressed from a junior position to studio chief, frequently advising peers on design and construction. This period exposed him to seminal projects such as the Villa Savoye, which significantly influenced his subsequent structural approach.
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Following a competition for the Japanese Pavilion at the 1937 Paris Exposition, Sakakura was appointed lead architect after the French government requested that the project utilize French materials and labor. He navigated complex site constraints by consulting Le Corbusier, resulting in a design defined by a grey walled box mounted on black piloti with a free-form internal plan.
Mid-Century Architectural Contributions
Upon returning to Japan, Sakakura founded Sakakura Associates Architects and Engineers. His notable post-war works include the 1951 Museum of Modern Art in Kamakura, which utilized thin steel piloti and Oya stone. In 1959, he collaborated with Le Corbusier on the National Museum of Western Art in Tokyo, supervising the implementation of plans. He later executed large-scale urban infrastructure, such as the 1967 West Plaza of Shinjuku Station.
Fast facts
- Born: 1901, Takegahana
- Died: 1969, Minato
- Education: Tokyo Imperial University
- Key Employer: Le Corbusier
- Award: Order of the Sacred Treasure, 3rd class
- Notable Project: National Museum of Western Art, 1959
Questions readers ask
What was Sakakura's relationship with Le Corbusier?
Sakakura worked as an apprentice and later studio chief at Le Corbusier's atelier in Paris for seven years before returning to Japan.
Which major projects is Sakakura associated with in Tokyo?
He is known for the National Museum of Western Art, the International House of Japan, and the West Plaza of Shinjuku Station.
Achievements
- Order of the Sacred Treasure, 3rd class
- Movement: modern architecture
- Trained at Tokyo Imperial University and École spéciale des travaux publics, du bâtiment et de l'industrie
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