Trailblazers
Innovating Japanese Wooden Architecture
Aired: Nov 15, 2024 (UTC)
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Nara Prefecture’s Horyuji Temple was built about 1,300 years ago and is the world’s oldest existing wooden building. It was built using sophisticated techniques, including kigumi, a method of joining wood without nails or metal fittings.
Today, the AQ Group, a Japanese home builder, is reexamining the potential of wooden buildings with a focus on traditional techniques. In 2024, it completed its eight-story headquarters building entirely out of wood. The building features large pillarless spaces made possible by newly-developed fortified walls. The group is also pursuing greater earthquake and fire resistance, joining together the pillars of tradition and innovation.
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