Left: Tea house Tetsu, 2006 Right: One Stone House, 2020
Terunobu Fujimori is a rare figure in contemporary architecture, rejecting industrial materials and rigid modernist aesthetics in favor of organic forms and handcrafted techniques. His work is a direct response to the artificiality of contemporary urban landscapes, emphasizing a return to nature and human touch. His treehouses, in particular, embody this philosophy, using raw materials such as wood, earth, and stone to create structures that feel like natural extensions of their surroundings.
Flying Mud Boat, 2012
Fujimori believes that architecture should be in harmony with the land rather than imposed upon it. He avoids polished, machine-made finishes, favoring imperfect, handmade elements that celebrate the passage of time. This approach is rooted in ancient Japanese traditions, where buildings were designed to age gracefully and integrate with nature. His treehouses reflect this idea, using materials that are locally sourced, minimally processed, and carefully arranged by skilled artisans.
Left: Wooden sculpture of Takasugi-an, - Right: Tea house Takasugi-an, 2004
One of his most famous works is the tea house Tetsu, a charming treehouse supported by a single 80-year-old cypress trunk. It stands four meters above the ground, offering visitors a peaceful space to enjoy their tea while admiring the surrounding cherry blossoms. The house is made of natural materials, blending seamlessly with its environment. Its interior is minimalist and peaceful, featuring sliding wooden doors and shutters that invite guests to focus on the view and embrace the beauty of the landscape.
Left: Beetle´s House, 2010 Right: Sketch for Beetle‘s House, -
For Fujimori, architecture is not just about shelter but about creating experiences that engage the senses. His treehouses encourage people to interact with nature in a way that modern buildings often prevent. By using natural materials and avoiding rigid structures, he creates spaces that evoke a childlike sense of wonder. His work is a quiet rebellion against the sleek, impersonal architecture of today, reminding us that buildings should not just exist in nature but be part of it.