Designs That Never Were: Kisho Kurokawa's Cities

Contents:

• Agricultural City (1960)
• Floating City (1961)
• Spiral City (1961)
• Linear City, or "Metamorphoses of '65" (1961)
• Pompidou Centre (1971)

In the "Design That Never Was" section, we explore interesting and significant, yet unrealized, projects in architecture and urban planning. In this article, we will consider Kisho Kurokawa's concepts for cities that could have become ideal places to live and dream of many people. These projects demonstrate a unique vision of the future of the urban environment and offer inspiration for modern designers and architects.

In the 1950s, after the end of World War II, Japan was actively rebuilding devastated cities, which contributed to significant population growth. At this time, there was an acute housing shortage for citizens. The initial reconstruction was carried out taking into account the recommendations of the International Congress of Modern Architecture. According to these recommendations, cities needed to clearly separate residential areas, industrial zones, entertainment districts, and transportation infrastructure. This approach allowed for the creation of more convenient and functional urban spaces, contributing to an improved quality of life and economic development.

By the late 1960s, some Japanese architects realized that the traditional way of life was becoming inconvenient for people. In 1960, at the World Design Conference in Tokyo, a group of innovators presented a manifesto entitled "Metabolism: Proposals for a New Urbanism." This event became the starting point for a futuristic movement in Japanese architecture that continues to influence the architectural community today. Metabolism concepts, based on ideas of flexibility, adaptability, and organic interaction with the environment, inspire architects to create innovative and sustainable urban spaces.

One of the most prominent figures in the Metabolism movement was the young and talented architect Kisho Kurokawa. At just 26 years old, he unveiled his Nakagin Capsule Tower, which became a symbol of Japanese Metabolism. Sadly, however, this remarkable architectural work is scheduled for demolition, which began in April 2022. The loss of the Nakagin building will be a significant loss to the architectural heritage of Japan and the world, as it embodies the unique ideas and innovations inherent in the concept of Metabolism. Kisho Kurokawa is a prominent Japanese architect known for his innovative designs and unique approach to architecture. Born in 1934, he became a key figure in the Japanese architectural movement. Kurokawa actively utilized the concept of "organic architecture," merging nature and technology in his works. His projects, such as the National Museum of Art in Osaka and the NHK Building in Tokyo, reflect the harmony between the natural environment and modern technology. Kurokawa was also one of the founders of the Metabolism movement, which sought to create architecture capable of adapting and evolving with time. His work continues to inspire architects and designers around the world, highlighting the importance of sustainability and integrating nature into urban spaces. Learn more about Kisho Kurokawa's influence on modern architecture and his legacy in the field.

Kisho Kurokawa, born April 8, 1934, spent his childhood in the difficult conditions of the war years. However, in his youth, he witnessed the Japanese "economic miracle," which had a significant influence on his creative and visionary thinking. He received a high-quality education in architecture, studying at Kyoto and Tokyo universities under the renowned architect Kenzo Tange. In 1962, Kurokawa founded his own architectural firm, which marked a significant milestone in his career and made a significant contribution to the development of modern Japanese architecture. Kurokawa emphasized that modern architects and urbanists must focus on the future, given the rapid development of the world. With each passing decade, the needs of urban residents will change, and to prevent outdated cities from becoming isolated spaces, they must be viewed not as static "machines," but as "living organisms." Such cities "feed," grow, and develop according to their own laws. These concepts can form the basis for the creation of metabolic architecture, promoting the harmonious coexistence of humans and the urban environment.

Kurokawa has projects that remained only on paper or as models. Let's look at five of his ideas that continue to inspire and amaze even after 60 years. These designs reflect the architect's unique approach to design and architecture, highlighting his vision of the future and innovative ideas.

Agricultural City (1960)

In 1959, Kisho Kurokawa observed the devastating force of a typhoon in Ise Bay. This experience became a key moment in his life and inspired him to develop the concept of the Agricultural City. The main goal of this project was to create a self-sufficient and disaster-resistant community. Kurokawa sought to integrate various aspects of agriculture and urban life, which would minimize the risks associated with the elements and ensure sustainable development.

The architect described the scheme as follows: streets represent the main structure, and buildings act as a substructure. Kurokawa drew inspiration from Kyoto, where there are no squares, but only a street grid consisting of a sequence of houses. This emphasizes the importance of streets as organizing elements of the urban environment, which shape the unique appearance and character of the area.

The architect created a lattice megastructure consisting of concrete slabs installed on four-meter-high piles. Wide streets are designed to accommodate roads and monorails, and utilities, including water and electricity, will be located underneath them. Residential and administrative buildings are planned at the intersections of the roads, which will provide convenience and functionality to the urban infrastructure.

Kurokawa proposed a concept of "mushroom"-shaped houses, which are built on wooden piles and have no load-bearing walls. These buildings are equipped with a massive aluminum roof, including skylights. This project highlights the architect's desire to combine two key concepts: the walls and roof should function as a single unit. This approach creates a unique architectural style, where structural elements interact harmoniously with each other, emphasizing the modernity and functionality of the living environment. Everyday life in the city is intended to develop above ground, freeing up more space for agriculture and protecting homes from the destructive effects of typhoons. This approach will ensure the sustainability of urban infrastructure and preserve agricultural land, which is an important aspect for ensuring food security.

Kurokawa sought to eliminate the traditional division between city and country. He envisioned agricultural structures as autonomous, high-tech settlements capable of free development. The basis for this approach was a 500 by 500 meter frame designed to accommodate 200 people. This standard architectural plan simplified the process of construction and further development of urban infrastructure.

Floating City (1961)

Kurokawa anticipated that cities would face overpopulation in the future, so he began developing the concept of a city on the water. The architect intended to begin implementing this project simultaneously with the construction of a new international airport in the Narita area, located near Tokyo. This innovative idea could be a solution to urban problems related to population growth and space constraints in megacities.

The floating city is intended to resemble residential "lily pads" connected by bridges and roads. This unique structure offers opportunities for free development and adaptation, creating a harmonious coexistence between humans and nature. The floating city symbolizes innovation in architecture and urban planning, offering sustainable solutions for living on water.

The architect sought to separate the automobile and pedestrian traffic, proposing to place roads and bridges on the upper level. Although sidewalks run underneath and are not always convenient, they occupy significant space on residential platforms. Each platform is additionally equipped with a harbor for ferries and cargo ships. Kurokawa also designed a system of escalators that connect the roads to the platforms and the embankment to the harbor, providing comfortable movement for pedestrians and improving the functionality of the space.

In the Floating City, every resident has the opportunity to independently choose the building materials for their home. This ensures the uniqueness and individuality of each "water lily," allowing for the creation of inimitable architectural solutions and the reflection of the owner's personal style. This approach contributes to the diversity and aesthetic appeal of the urban space.

Spiral City (1961)

Kurokawa sought to develop the city not only in vertical and horizontal directions, but and along less obvious trajectories. His research led him to the concept of a spiral structure that allows people to move diagonally up and down buildings. This innovative idea opens new horizons for architecture and urban planning, allowing for the creation of more functional and comfortable spaces for living and working.

In the concept The Spiral City's architect was inspired by the DNA form, creating a dynamic space with a segregated flow. Cars in this city can navigate complex routes via multi-layered overpasses, eliminating the need for sidewalks. Pedestrians, meanwhile, will be able to directly cross from the street into the center of the desired building and move freely between skyscrapers, ensuring convenience and safety. The Spiral City is an innovative urban design model that optimizes the relationship between transport and urban infrastructure.

Navigating in a densely populated city is a complex task. The architect later applied his ideas, testing them on more compact projects such as the Pompidou Centre. This approach allowed him to optimize the design of urban structures and improve the functionality of public spaces.

Linear City, or "Metamorphoses '65" (1961)

Kurokawa's concept of the Linear City arose from his reflections on the place of man in a rapidly urbanizing world. He recognized that in modern conditions, feelings of loneliness and the need for constant interaction with others simultaneously exist. This idea emphasizes the importance of creating urban environments that promote social connections and reduce isolation. The linear city is becoming a response to the challenges of modernity, offering a harmonious coexistence of individuality and public interests, which is especially relevant in an era of rapid metropolitan growth.

The architect concluded that cities traditionally form radially around a more developed center, which attracts the main flows of people. This leads to the degradation of the outskirts, as resources and investment are concentrated in the business center. This distribution of resources hinders the development and strengthening of local communities. To create sustainable urban spaces, it is necessary to consider the interests and needs of all districts, not just the central zone. This will help balance the development of urban infrastructure and improve the quality of life of residents of the outskirts.

Kurokawa proposed the concept of a long linear city, In which each building will contain all the necessary shops and services for residents. This will reduce commute times and facilitate more frequent encounters between people. As a result, residents will be able to establish lasting personal connections right in their homes, not just in the office environment. This approach will not only improve quality of life, but also create a more cohesive community where interactions between people become natural and convenient.

Kurokawa developed the concept of the Linear City, inspired by the structure of an organism's cell. This model includes all the necessary elements that, when combined, form a single, functioning organism. He envisioned the city growing and developing like a cell, dividing into new structures. The city's linear form would expand in different directions, responding to the real needs of residents rather than following a predetermined urban plan. This approach allows for the creation of a more flexible and adaptive urban environment, capable of responding to changes and the needs of the population.

Pompidou Center (1971)

Kurokawa participated in the competition to design the Pompidou Centre in Paris. Although his work was not selected, the jury recognized the project with a special commendation during the finalists' ceremony. This demonstrates the high level of his creativity and originality, underscoring the significance of his contribution to the architectural community. Unlike the Linear City, Kurokawa's project already had a fixed center, as the structure was integrated into the existing building. Nevertheless, Kurokawa approached the task in an original way: he intended to transform the Pompidou Centre into a city within a city, connected to old Paris via various routes. This approach emphasizes the uniqueness and innovation of the architectural concept, creating a harmonious interaction between modern and historical elements of the urban environment.

Kurokawa proposed creating a building frame reminiscent of a "waffle net," measuring 27 meters wide and long with a ceiling height of five meters. This structure would ensure the building's stability and divide it into conventional "honeycombs," each of which would perform a unique function depending on the type of art. This concept allows for flexible adaptation of the space for various events and exhibitions, making the building multifunctional and drawing attention to contemporary artistic practices.

You can visit the museum in three ways: from the metro, through the main entrance On the ground floor and through the roof using a diagonal bridge. All entrances, except the roof, are walk-through, allowing visitors to exit on the other side of the building or continue their journey via the metro line. This makes visiting the museum convenient and accessible for everyone.

To successfully implement the "city within a city" concept, the creation of water spaces at each entrance and exit was an important element. The metro included a swimming pool, which not only enhances the atmosphere but also facilitates comfortable travel for residents. A water garden was installed on the ground floor, serving as a natural filter and adding greenery to the space. An artificial stream on the roof complements these elements, creating a unique atmosphere and visually expanding the urban space. Such solutions make the passage through the Center not only convenient, but also aesthetically attractive, emphasizing the harmony of nature and the urban landscape.

To create the building's unique appearance and separate it from the surrounding urban environment, Kurokawa proposed a stepped architectural structure with terraces. These terraces can serve as seating areas for visitors, providing a comfortable space for relaxation and socializing. As a result, the building's interior space can be optimized, allocating more space for exhibits and administrative offices. This approach not only improves functionality but also creates a harmonious interaction between nature and architecture.

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• Kurokawa Kisho, Metabolism in Architecture, 1977
• Koolhaas / Obrist. Project Japan. Metabolism Talks, 2011

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