Koichi Takada of Koichi Takada Architects

Taking cues from nature, Koichi Takada is constantly searching for ways to evolve. Dedicating his architectural practice to intertwining nature with the built environment, Koichi continues to question how we can be better, all in the name of the human condition.

Growing up in Tokyo, Koichi was incredibly influenced by the powerful forces of nature, especially the distinct four seasons. “That’s the beautiful part of nature,” he explains. “But equally in Japan, there are also earthquakes, tsunamis and dangerous parts of natural phenomenon that we learn to live with. You learn to respect nature, to adopt a sensitivity to both its beauty and power.” This belief formed the foundation for his architectural pursuits, working with a deep understanding of balance, order, structure and control – “like in a Japanese garden. I was encouraged to conform, so I learned to obey the rules, but I craved places that gave me a sense of freedom.”

In some capacity, each Koichi Takada Architects project is fuelled by this duality – the unpredictability of the environment paired alongside the Japanese sense of restraint.

In some capacity, each Koichi Takada Architects project is fuelled by this duality – the unpredictability of the environment paired alongside the Japanese sense of restraint. Seeing the tension between the two provides an immediate emotional response. “When I studied architecture – in both New York and London – I decided that I wanted to
design architecture that reconnected us to nature,” he notes. “Buildings had become all concrete, all glass, and cities are grey. It became my mission to reconnect humans and nature, to restore the relationship using architecture.”

“We always look to nature for inspiration,” Koichi muses of his and his team’s work. “It provides unexpected solutions that engage a sense of awe.” Today, we spend most of our time indoors, yet Koichi reminds us not to dismiss the advantages that nature provides. “Trees and greenery reduce the urban heat island effect, moderate flooding, enhance and support biodiversity and pollinate our food,” he says. “There are also psychological benefits to nature-filled spaces. Studies show a reduction in stress, better sleep quality and stronger human relationships. In other words, if nature thrives, we thrive, too.”

Working in harmony with nature rather than against it, Koichi seeks out the dynamic and refined elements of a design with grace.

Working in harmony with nature rather than against it, Koichi seeks out the dynamic and refined elements of a design with grace. “I also strive to create the space of what we call in Japan ‘iyashi’, a sense of retreat through our design, an escape from demanding urban lifestyles; similar to the effect nature has on lifting your energy and recharging your mind. The feeling of a soft breeze, the acoustics in a cave or the ambience of natural light through a tree canopy – these are elements we cannot draw but try to involve in the experience of a design, in particular how an experience changes over time.”

Incorporating sustainable philosophies is also integral to each project. “The most sustainable building is one that stands the test of time and inspires us to play our part in bringing about a greener future,” says Koichi. “We can’t save the planet alone, but we can steer the conversation away from the doom and gloom and remind the world of the power of nature to improve our lives and our cities.” In this vein, architecture is positioned quite uniquely in its ability to contribute firsthand to our environments in either a positive or negative way. “Our role has never been more relevant in determining what the future holds.”

Working with several clients that have shared the studio’s vision has allowed Koichi Takada Architects to create disarmingly captivating structures of discerning quality.

Working with several clients that have shared the studio’s vision has allowed Koichi Takada Architects to create disarmingly captivating structures of discerning quality. The most recent project, Upper House, is a high-rise residential tower in Brisbane for Aria Property Group. The structure explores new ways to foster interaction and wellbeing within the building’s community and culture. “From the entry, a five-storey artwork by artist Judy Watson wraps the facade and reveals Indigenous histories. From there, architectural ribbons inspired by the roots of the Moreton Bay fig climb to the rooftop and intertwine in a timber pergola that crowns the building.”

Solar Trees Marketplace in Shanghai, China, is another project of note. An adaptable commercial and retail destination, the area is instantly recognisable due to its biophilic structure. “We were shocked to learn that the site was covered in trees as recently as 1984, so our design seeks to start conversations around what can be achieved through design to create a living, breathing environment that inspires, nurtures and adapts to the needs of both residents and the community,” says Koichi. The next stage is to incorporate a residential aspect and, once residents move in, the structure will transition. “A canopy of translucent photovoltaics will power the operation of the community hub and marketplace. This ability to evolve ensures that it remains relevant in an ever-changing future.”

“We always look to nature for inspiration,” Koichi muses of his and his team’s work. “It provides unexpected solutions that engage a sense of awe.”

Welcoming back nature into cities is not a radical idea, yet it’s not always executed as holistically and strikingly as Koichi Takada Architects achieves. Embracing change, the studio manages to fuse the built environment with the ever-evolving principles of nature. “I want to leave a mark on the architectural landscape and, at the same time, improve the wellbeing of people who engage with my designs.”