Open Architecture for the People: Housing Development in Post-War Japan

Open Architecture for the People explores Japanese architecture and the three different phases of development between the years 1950 and 2018.

Changing ways of life through differing generations have caused fluctuations in the building industry. This book demonstrates how each generation’s expectations have resulted in discernible eras in architecture which can be examined collectively as well as in isolation. For example, the sudden increase in productivity from 1950 brought about by the Industrial Revolution flowed to the production of buildings and homes and designs were influenced by modern ideas.

With over thirty black and white images to illustrate the changes, Matsumura brings to light architectural developments that have previously been confined to Japanese speaking academics. In doing so, the book broadens the scope for further architectural examinations internationally. It would be ideal for academics, students and professionals within the areas of architecture and urban planning, particularly those with an interest in Japanese architecture.

Shuichi Matsumura is a project professor in the Department of Architecture, at the University of Tokyo.