When you look at Japanese traditional architecture, you have to

The soft murmur of the café filled the space, blending with the rhythmic sound of rain against the window. Jack sat across from Jeeny, his fingers wrapped loosely around his coffee cup, staring out at the rainy streets. Jeeny, sitting opposite him, seemed lost in thought, her fingers gently tracing the rim of her cup.

Host: After a brief moment of silence, Jeeny spoke, her voice thoughtful but calm.

Jeeny: “I came across a quote from Tadao Ando today that made me reflect on the connection between architecture and culture. He said, ‘When you look at Japanese traditional architecture, you have to look at Japanese culture and its relationship with nature. You can actually live in a harmonious, close contact with nature - this is very unique to Japan.’ What do you think about that? Do you think architecture can really bring us into closer contact with nature?”

Jack: He looked up, a thoughtful expression crossing his face. “I think Ando’s point is really powerful. Architecture isn’t just about creating structures; it’s about how those structures interact with the environment, with the natural world. In Japanese traditional architecture, there’s this deep respect for nature, a recognition that we’re not separate from it, but part of it. Ando’s work, especially, embraces that philosophy—buildings are designed to be in harmony with their surroundings, to enhance the experience of being in nature, rather than dominate it.”

Jeeny: She nodded slowly, her eyes reflective. “Exactly. It’s a balance. The design doesn’t stand apart from the environment, but instead becomes an extension of it. In Japan, nature and architecture are often seen as interconnected, not as separate entities. Ando’s buildings, like his Church of the Light or the Water Temple, use simple forms, natural materials, and light to connect people to nature, almost as if the building itself invites you into a dialogue with the environment.”

Host: The rain outside had softened, and the conversation between them deepened. Jack shifted slightly, his fingers resting on his coffee cup as he continued.

Jack: “And that’s what’s so striking about Japanese architecture—it’s not just about aesthetics, it’s about creating a space that makes you feel connected to the world around you. It’s not about dominating nature or imposing human design on the land, but about creating a balance that allows people to experience nature in a more intimate way. It’s almost like the buildings fade into the landscape, and the landscape becomes part of the building itself.”

Jeeny: “Exactly. And there’s a sense of humility in that approach. The idea that architecture isn’t the centerpiece, but a tool to enhance the natural beauty around it. It’s about creating spaces where you can experience nature, not just view it from a distance. And that’s a very unique aspect of Japanese design, one that doesn’t prioritize the human ego, but instead focuses on harmony.”

Host: The quiet in the café seemed to deepen, as if the conversation had brought a sense of clarity to the ideas they were discussing. Jack looked at Jeeny, his expression softening as he reflected on the importance of connection—between people, between architecture, and between nature.

Jack: “I think it’s a reminder that architecture can do more than just provide shelter. It can help us reconnect with the world around us in a more meaningful way. The spaces we live in should not isolate us from nature, but bring us closer to it. And that’s what makes Ando’s work so special—it’s not just about building structures, it’s about creating spaces that foster a deeper sense of connection.”

Jeeny: Her smile was small but filled with understanding. “Exactly. It’s a beautiful philosophy—to design spaces that not only provide comfort and functionality but also make us more aware of our surroundings, making us feel part of something larger than ourselves. Japanese traditional architecture, and Ando’s work, reminds us that we are just one part of a much bigger picture.”

Host: The rain outside had finally stopped, and the quiet of the café seemed to reflect the calmness of their conversation. Jack and Jeeny sat in the realization that architecture, at its best, doesn’t just create spaces—it creates connections. Tadao Ando’s words serve as a reminder that the built environment can be an extension of the natural world, inviting us into a harmonious relationship with the landscape around us. True architecture isn’t about separating us from nature, but about bringing us back into it.