d+a Issue No. 134 (Nov 24 - Jan 25)

This issue of d+a features the refurbished Embassy of Switzerland, surrounded by lush, mature trees. Through a modern Swiss approach, the redesign reuses the original structure, retaining its existing intimate qualities while introducing updated functionality and a contemporary aesthetic. Over in Japan, we visit Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto whose architecture (by Kengo Kuma) integrates with the serene Higashiyama landscape, offering a sanctuary that embodies Kyoto’s understated elegance. We explore two multi-generational homes. One is a vacation house reimagined for a multi-generational family to gather for holidays in the verdant setting of Yongjia in Zhejiang, China. The other is a multi-generational house in Singapore that fosters a renewed sense of connection (balanced with privacy) among different family units. Also meet Aoki Akio, the founder of Designart Tokyo, to gain insights into the legacy of Tokyo’s distinguished art and design event and its significance for young creatives in Japan.