Kengo Kuma and Architecture for Dogs: Innovation and Design for Our Canine Companions

FECHA

08.01.2025

Renowned architect Kengo Kuma is part of the Architecture for Dogs project, which also features some of today’s most influential architects, including Kazuyo Sejima, Shigeru Ban, and Toyo Ito, several of whom have been awarded the prestigious Pritzker Prize. This initiative goes beyond the traditional functions of pet spaces, addressing innovative concepts of coexistence and shared sensitivity between humans and dogs. Since its inception in 2012, the exhibition has traveled to cities like London, Brazil, China, and Japan, showcasing how architecture can enhance the quality of life for our animal companions and harmoniously integrate into our lives. Far from being mere functional objects, the creations explore the emotional and symbolic connection between humans and their pets.

The exhibition is organized as a fluid system of interconnected islands, with each of the 13 works telling a unique story of coexistence and design. These proposals range from cushions and ramps to vertical structures, designed to meet the specific needs of different dog breeds. Curated by renowned Japanese designer Kenya Hara, the exhibition reinterprets spaces for pets, transforming traditional kennels and shelters into authentic works of art. Materials, forms, and structures are carefully selected to combine functionality and aesthetics, challenging conventional ideas about environments designed for animals and fostering a more balanced relationship between humans and nature.

A standout feature of Architecture for Dogs is its participatory approach. Visitors can download the blueprints of the works for free from the project’s official website, allowing them to build these architectures tailored to their dogs’ needs. This approach not only democratizes design but also creates a global community where ideas are shared and transformed into unique experiences. The upcoming edition of the exhibition will be held at the ADI Design Museum in Milan, from December 3, 2024, to February 16, 2025, offering an immersive experience for design and pet enthusiasts alike. More than just an exhibition, Architecture for Dogs stands as a living manifesto, questioning how we inhabit the world and how spaces can serve as a bridge between art, functionality, and our relationships with animals.

MARCH VALENCIA | ARQUITECTURA Y DISEÑO

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