CH – JP : Building in Context
Contemporary Japanese Architecture in Switzerland

Recent years have seen the development of a series of groundbreaking and spectacular new projects designed by Japanese architects on Swiss soil. These have injected fresh perspectives into the local architectural landscape, while mirroring the specific Swiss environment for which they were conceived. In other words, these buildings are an excellent example of the intensity of creative relations between Japan and Switzerland.

CH-JP: Building in Context takes a look at five of the most recent of these projects. Each of them is different in its approach, content and formal poetry. Each of them responds to a specific task and site. Despite their differences, they all share the unique context of Switzerland, as reflected in Swiss building guidelines: a focus on high living standards, respect towards the local environment, in a consensus-driven democratic environment rich in formal regulations.

A collection of working models, sketches and pictures reveals the development process of what have quickly become renowned landmarks in the Swiss landscape.

The exhibition and accompanying programs also gauges the effects of these projects: How do they influence the Swiss landscape? How do they attract business and foster activity? Conversely, how do they influence the Japanese discourse in design and architecture? What is to gain from these exchanges, and what is coming next?

CH-JP: Building in Context – with projects from Shigeru Ban, Kengo Kuma, SANAA, Riken Yamamoto - has been shown in Tokyo in 2014, as part of the official 2014 celebrations of 150 years diplomatic relations between Switzerland and Japan. We hope you enjoy this exhibition.  

The exhibition and accompanying events are organized by the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne (EPFL), Archizoom, the Geneva University of Art and Design (HEAD), in cooperation with the Maison d'Architecture Geneva and the Consulate of Japan in Geneva.  

Pictures of the CH-JP : Building in Context exhibition at Pavillon Sicli