TADAO ANDO

A self-taught architect Tadao Ando is popularly known for his emphasis on the association between nature and architecture.  Architectural historian Francesco Dal Co defined his unique approach to architecture and landscape as "critical regionalism". 

During his early school years he worked as a truck driver and boxer before settling on the profession of architect, despite never having formal training in the field. Struck by the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Imperial Hotel on a trip to Tokyo as a second-year high school student, he eventually decided to end his boxing career less than two years after graduating from high school to pursue architecture.

Ando was raised in Japan where the religion and style of life strongly influenced his architecture and design. Ando's architectural style is said to create a "haiku" effect, emphasising nothingness and empty space to represent the beauty of simplicity. Besides speaking of the spirit of architecture, Ando also emphasises the association between nature and architecture. He intends for people to easily experience the spirit and beauty of nature through architecture.

"DWELLING IN A HOUSE IS NOT ONLY A FUNCTIONAL ISSUE, BUT ALSO A SPIRITUAL ONE.

My hand is the extension of the thinking process– the creative process.

Look at London or Paris: they're both filthy. You don't get that in Tokyo. The proud residents look after their city."

Source: Wikipedia and Brainy Quotes