The Japan Architect (JA) is a dual-language English/Japanese publication that endeavours to bring Japanese architectural practices into a wider awareness. It showcases buildings and structures that have involved Japanese architects, builders and structural engineers with a particular emphasis on structures that highlight Japanese building practices and/or materials. There are several essays included in each issue that discuss a particular theme, and presentations of many (20+) architectural projects that also tie in with the theme accompanied by digital images/blueprints/pictures and commentary by the architects.
This particular issue focuses on wood construction and so each featured structure has wood intrinsic to the design. From modularly-constructed disaster-relief housing (“Minimum house for local revitalisation in Oshika Peninsula”) to residential housing built on top of office towers (“Beautifying cities with added value”), along with the plethora of beautiful and complex wood lattices, wickerwork walls and trusses.
There is also a large emphasis placed on the benefits of wood as a construction material as opposed to steel or concrete. The essays and architect commentaries underline the environmental and psychological value of wood, as well as its value to local communities and businesses.
The magazine is a beautifully designed publication, with clean layouts revolving around large photos and architectural designs. It would be well at home on the coffee table of any design enthusiast and provides a wealth of information to people interested in the use of wood by Japanese architects.