In the heart of Japan’s economic boom, as the country’s skyline soared and its economy bubbled, architects were engaged in a profound dialogue about the very foundation of their designs: the ground. This discourse, which unfolded between 1975 and 1990, is now the subject of a compelling study by Abudjana H. E. Babiker, a researcher at Waseda University, published in the Journal of Asian Architecture and Building Engineering. The study, titled “The discourse of the ground: a thematic investigation of the discourse of the ground in architectural design in Japan from 1975 to 1990 through critical discourse analysis,” delves into the archival statements of Japanese architects, revealing a complex web of ideas that could reshape our understanding of urban development and energy efficiency.
The post-World War II era in Japan was a time of rapid transformation, with the Metabolist Group and its successors reimagining the relationship between architecture and the land. This period, coinciding with Japan’s economic bubble, saw an intensified focus on the ground, influenced by the Metabolism movement. Babiker’s research, which employs Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) and thematic coding methods, uncovers six distinct themes that emerged from this discourse. “The ground was not just a physical surface,” Babiker explains, “but a site of political, social, and cultural negotiations.”
One of the most intriguing themes is the concept of “land liberation,” a term that echoes Le Corbusier’s use of pilotis to free the ground from the weight of buildings. In Japan, this idea took on new dimensions, with architects exploring ways to maximize land use while minimizing environmental impact. This has significant implications for the energy sector, as efficient land use can reduce the need for energy-intensive infrastructure and transportation. “The way we design our buildings and cities can have a profound impact on our energy consumption,” Babiker notes. “By understanding the discourse of the ground, we can make more informed decisions about sustainable urban development.”
Another theme is the idea of the ground as a “living entity,” a concept that challenges the traditional view of the ground as a static, inert surface. This perspective opens up new possibilities for green building practices, such as green roofs and vertical gardens, which can help mitigate the urban heat island effect and improve air quality. “The ground is not just a foundation for our buildings,” Babiker says, “but a dynamic system that can contribute to the health and well-being of urban environments.”
The study also highlights the role of intertextuality in shaping the discourse of the ground. Architects often referenced each other’s work, creating a network of ideas that evolved over time. This intertextuality can be a powerful tool for innovation, as architects build on each other’s ideas to create new and more sustainable designs. “The discourse of the ground is not a static entity,” Babiker explains, “but a dynamic process that evolves through dialogue and exchange.”
So, what does this mean for the future of architecture and the energy sector? Babiker’s research suggests that by understanding the discourse of the ground, we can create more sustainable and energy-efficient buildings and cities. This could involve rethinking our approach to land use, embracing green building practices, and fostering a culture of innovation and exchange. As Japan continues to grapple with the challenges of urbanization and climate change, the lessons from this period of architectural discourse could be more relevant than ever. The Journal of Asian Architecture and Building Engineering, which translates to the Journal of Asian Architecture and Building Engineering, is a leading publication in the field, and Babiker’s study is sure to spark further debate and research. As we look to the future, the discourse of the ground may hold the key to creating more sustainable and resilient cities.