Concrete

I tend to think of concrete as being very hard and sharp.

I like the sharp edges and planes that can be made with concrete.

When they come into contact with nature they are like a powerful foil.

The precise order in contrast to nature can make both elements more dynamic.

However, over the years of using this material,

I have come to see different qualities of concrete.

Depending on the space I am trying to construct,

I may see it as just the opposite: softer and less severe.

I began as a craftsman and a builder working with my hands.

I still miss that now.

Working with your hands and muscles is important.

It is very important,

Very important to understand scale and weight and the voice of materials.

I don’t want to design impractical things that a human being cannot build.

Working with your hands teaches you very basic concept of beauty.

For example, I like concrete because it is handmade compared to some other types of modern building methods.

by Tadao Ando