Sou Fujimoto: The infinite possibilities of open field architecture

Japanese architect Sou Fujimoto has a distinctly philosophical approach to his craft. In this exclusive video interview, he tells us what influences his work, how Einstein was his childhood hero and that architecture that leaves itself open to possibilities is the most interesting.

“To think about the concept behind our living spaces is quite exciting,” says Fujimoto.

Fujimoto was born in Japan and acknowledges the effect of Japanese traditional thinking on his work. However, he also points out that we are all a mix of inspirations and influences, from what we see and experience as well as from what we learn. It is the unexpected integration of these influences that leads to interesting work.

Fujimoto’s work often explores the functions of space and then possibilities of the human body interacting within it. In Architecture is Everywhere, Fujimoto’s exhibition at the Chicago Architecture Biennial, small-scale human models were placed next to strange everyday objects in a humorous attempt to investigate what architectural spaces are today.

Fujimoto tries to create spaces that leave open possibilities for the user. His 2013 Serpentine Pavilion is a perfect example of this: it was a experimental, open space that didn’t prescribe any particular movement or behaviour.