Citizen-Led Campaign Proposes New Use for Kenzo Tange's Kagawa Gymnasium, Facing Demolition

In February 2023, the governor of Kagawa Prefecture, Japan, announced the planned demolition of the Kagawa Prefectural Gymnasium, designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Kenzo Tange. Discussion surrounding its fate dates back to its permanent closure in 2014, after a roof leak caused structural problems in the ceiling boards. Since then, several organizations have worked to save the building, including a petition by the World Monuments Fund and an effort by a promotional council to nominate it as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site in 2021. Despite these initiatives, on August 7, 2025, the Kagawa Prefectural Government officially announced a public competitive bidding process to select a contractor for the demolition, something the Former Kagawa Prefectural Gymnasium Regeneration Committee is determined to prevent.

From Vietnam to Poland: 6 Unbuilt Residences Immersed in Nature

Across diverse climates and landscapes, architects are reimagining the home as a place deeply rooted in its surroundings, where architecture and environment work together to nurture well-being. This curated selection of unbuilt residences, submitted by the ArchDaily community, are conceived as sanctuaries, offering respite from the pace of urban life and drawing on the restorative qualities of greenery, water, and open air. Nature is utilized as an active presence, shaping courtyards, guiding circulation, and influencing the choice of materials and colors.

Nelson Mandela Cruise Terminal / Elphick Proome Architecture + Vusa Collaborative

The terminal was conceived as the new portal to the Kingdom of the Zulus, welcoming tourists to the province and traditional culture. Dwarfed by docked cruise liners wharf side, the powerful form asserts itself as a memorable landmark object, interfacing the harbor and the city. Conceived with an overt African identity, the envelope draws inspiration from the earthy colors, vibrant textures, and traditional triangular motifs displayed in Zulu craft. The African colouration inspired by Zulu artwork is unique, contextual, and demands attention, boldly contrasting the conventional neutral 'treatment' characterizing most transportation buildings globally.

Freihaus / Gockel Architects

Located in Brisbane's inner-city suburb of Bardon, the "Freihaus" involved significant alterations and additions to a traditional pre-war house on a small lot. The owners sought a flexible home that responds to the evolving needs of contemporary living while emphasizing passive climatic control and ample natural light. A key desire was to create a strong visual connection between the main internal space and the pool terrace.

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