The Role of Transparency and Translucency in Architecture
The choice of Japanese architect Riken Yamamoto as the winner of the 2024 Pritzker Prize prompts a reflection on the role of translucency in architecture. His work seeks to take advantage of the thresholds and connections that architecture can help create, leading to an abundant use of glass. In fact, transparency, which is increasingly valued by society, is intrinsically linked to principles such as responsibility, trust, efficiency, informed decision-making, equity, justice and innovation. Ultimately, transparency plays a key role in building a healthy, functioning society in which trust, responsibility and fairness thrive. It's no wonder that government and institutional buildings, which used to emphasize solidity and opacity, now often adopt a new architectural pattern, characterized by the generous use of glass and other structures, as exemplified in this article by Romullo Baratto. Translucent architecture therefore becomes not only an aesthetic expression, but also a reflection of the values and ideals of a constantly evolving society.
Historically, glass has been used to make doors and windows. However, with technological advances in manufacturing and the exploration of alternative materials, the scope for leveraging transparency has widened extensively, encompassing both interior and exterior domains. These innovations challenge conventional limitations and inspire creative approaches in the design of new architectural projects, often using materials such as textiles, plastics or other alternatives, which provide the passage of light and often views between different planes. In this edition of our Building Future Newsletter, we will delve into how to achieve transparency and translucency in architectural projects. This is not always done with glass or translucent materials, but can even be developed with solid elements such as wooden slats or metal skins.
Thanks for reading, see you in the next issue.
Eduardo Souza, Senior Editor, Brands & Materials
Riken Yamamoto's Pritzker Prize-winning architectural style is characterized by transparency, integration, and challenging spatial concepts through materiality.
From textiles and glass bricks to metallic meshes, plastics, and even marble, translucent materials redefine architectural aesthetics.
An ancient element could help redefine the way we conceive and inhabit space: curtains.
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In this article we will cover some examples of wooden slat facades, including its possibilities and the best ways to amplify their effect.
To inspire architects, we present 20 different window types according to their opening motion, format, framing material and performance qualities.?
A system of channel-glass panels creates translucent facades from floor to ceiling with minimum frames and different coating options.
8 tips to work with prefabricated metal meshes and take advantage of their potential.
Architect at Mana design studio/3D visualisation specialist/certified by IRCEO in architectural design, construction, and supervision
8 个月In today's architectural world, nanotechnology in glass manufacturing is stay of art. Self washing glasses in buildings step in new era of architecture in modern countries, it provides flexibility, translucency, and even opaqueness in glass textiles.