SOU FUJIMOTO
Born in Hokkaido in 1971, he established Sou Fujimoto Architects in 2000 after graduating from the Department of Architecture, Faculty of Engineering at Tokyo University. After winning first prize at the International Competition for the "Second Folly of Montpellier, France" in 2014, he won several international design competitions. Fujimoto has been appointed as Expo site design producer for the 2025 Japan International Exposition (Osaka/Kansai Expo). His notable works include “Serpentine Gallery Pavilion 2013” (2013), “House NA” (2011), “Musashino Art University Museum & Library” (2010), and “House N” (2008).
"The SHIROIYA HOTEL was born alongside Maebashi City’s future vision, 'Where good things grow.' This room is an embodiment of that vision. The decoration is minimal, with vases that have been integrated into specially designed furniture. The plant cuttings sprouting from them appear to float, lending the room a gentle visual accent.
Changing the water, changing the plants...the careful daily effort that goes into maintaining the greenery is part of Japan’s tradition of hospitality. In this way, the room captures the desire to make an effort, to always welcome guests in a meticulously well-kept space, and to share together a moment in time."
SOU FUJIMOTO