Urbis Interview: Ravensbourne's Architecture and IDEAs lookbook URBIS 2017 GRADUATE BOOK | Page 9

The Japanese House
After Japan opened its ports
in 1853, following almost 200
years of seclusion due to the
fear of encroachment by the
European powers in the 16th
century. As a result of the Vienna
International Exhibition (1873),
a craze for Japanese objects
swept the west, encouraging an
emulation of the lifestyle and an
appreciation of the high technical
quality of the objects. Decades
later there has been a decline
in the craftsmanship Japan has
showcased to the world. The
programme aims to create an
intellectual bond between Japan
and London, exploring new social
and commercial opportunities
and inspiring a new generation
of culturally aware individuals in
the art of monozukuri (making
things). With 40% of all Japanese
companies based in the UK
involved in manufacturing, the
Japanese House aims to aid and
mentor the next generation of
young entrepreneurs by providing
space and facilities to experiment
and execute innovative ideas,
providing a platform to display a
renewal of cultural traditionalism.
X 13 - 15 Blossom St,

Borough of Tower Hamlets
London, E1 6PL
‘Present indications would seem
to point to Japan as the style of
the coming season…
Everything is already Japanese’
(Furniture Gazette, 1878).